Today we had to go to Boston for an appointment.  We left late morning.  Right before, I went out and visited with the girls.  I fed them scratch, gave them their treats, meal worms and then asked them not to eat any eggs.  I knew that we would be out until sometime after dinner.

When I am out, I am curious.

Will they get along?
Will someone pull rank?
Will they snuggle when they are cold?
Will they be kind to one another?
Will they share treats that they find in the run with each other?
Will they eat their eggs?
Will they eat their meals together?
Will they have deep discussions?
Will they do any housekeeping?
Will they have any unexpected visitors?

Interestingly, I often have the same worries about the chickens as I do about our children when my husband and I go out on a date and leave the kids with the babysitter.  Despite the obvious differences between feathered families and human ones, we are not much different.  Interpersonal dynamics are parts of all families.  We assume multiple familial roles and we all experience sadness, joy, happiness, worry, and love.

Photo Credit:  Tilly’s Nest