My backyard chicken journey began in April 2021 when we brought home three barred rock chicks: Chuck, Cleopatra, and Starshine. I began with the smallest flock possible because I wasn’t certain I would be a good chicken keeper. I was intimidated by the idea of the daily responsibilities and had been adamantly warned about the mess they could make. Instead of feeling burdened by their care I soon found that they were the best part of my day! Every spare moment I had was spent visiting them in their brooder with treats to familiarize them with my hand. As they grew I was next to them every step of the way. We transitioned them once they were fully feathered to their outside hutch and protective run. We began work on an expanded coop and run immediately because I was certain now this was not a passing phase. There was a moment sitting on the grass with baby cockerel Chuck on my shoulder my husband commented he could see the ‘chicken crazy’ taking hold. It already had. I lovingly refer to these first 3 chickens as my OG3. I love and adore all of my flock but these 3 birds have taken up a permanent residence in my heart.