Yesterday, I taught Isaac the fine art of digging for worms... truly one of my favorite outdoor activities. Hands digging through damp, sweet smelling dirt is always a treat for the senses. And he - being a boy and all - thought it was great too. We found lots of wriggling worms ... which Isaac thought were pretty neat ... then I showed him how we can make some very tight friendships with the chickens if we offer these worms up to them as treats. Well, then he thought this endeavor was down-right amazing!
Hand feeding chickens ... who are generally skiddish by nature ... can be so much fun. And the chicken you see here is among our friendliest. She is my favorite bird in all the world ... Chicken Jane. I hand fed her as a baby chick. So, whenever she sees me digging through the dirt, she comes a-running and joins in the feast. Now Isaac is learning to form his own relationship with her - and it is wonderful to watch.
It is so important for our childrens' souls that we parents model kind and respectful behavior toward animals. We nurture such tender hearts that way. And my Isaac has such a great respect for life because of it. I am so proud of him. And let's face it ... to make friends with a chicken is just so cool! Especially when they follow you around the yard ... cooing ... and cuddle up in your lap when you take a rest on the lawn. One of the greatest treats of the spring/summer seasons.
Oh.. But then Jack often comes around to ruin it all ...
(Notice the fleeing chickens ...) Still ... we also love Jack too :)
Enjoy the day,
Love,
Jodi
