Having chickens has changed my life

My friend Emma lives in a bustling city, her life a whirlwind of deadlines and commitments. Despite her success, she often felt something was missing – a sense of connection and tranquility. This all changed when she visited my chicken coop last summer.

There, she encountered my gorgeous Silkie chickens, an enchanting breed known for their fluffy plumage, gentle temperament, and distinct appearance. Unlike the chickens she has seen in books, these Silkies have a magical quality, with soft, silk-like feathers and a calm demeanor.

Emma was instantly captivated. She spent hours watching them, marveling at their serene movements and quirky personalities. Each Silkie is unique; some are bold and adventurous, while others are shy and reserved. But they all share a common trait – a peaceful presence that slows down the hectic pace of life.

As the days passed, Emma found herself drawn to the coop each morning. She started participating in their care – feeding them, cleaning their space, enjoying their daily eggs and ensuring they were healthy and happy. This routine became the most peaceful part of her day, a stark contrast to her life in the city.

The more time she spent with them, the more she realized how these Silkies affect her. Her stress levels decreased, her appreciation for the simple joys of life increased, and she felt a deeper connection to nature. The Silkies, with their calm and friendly nature, have had a therapeutic effect on her. They didn't care about deadlines or achievements; they were content with the warmth of the sun and the comfort of their flock.

Inspired by this experience, Emma has made a life-altering decision. She decided to bring a few Silkies back to her city home. Her urban backyard is transformed into a small sanctuary for these chickens, offering them a safe haven amidst the city's chaos.

Having the Silkies in her daily life has brought a new rhythm to Emma's existence. She starts her mornings with the sound of their gentle clucking, a reminder to appreciate the moment. She is learning the value of caring for another being, the responsibility of being their protector, and the joy of seeing them thrive.

Friends and family who visit are initially surprised but soon understand the change in Emma. They see how the Silkies have brought a new dimension of warmth and gentleness to her life. Emma has become an advocate for urban poultry keeping, sharing her knowledge and experiences, and inspiring others to find their own little piece of tranquility.

The Silkies have taught Emma the importance of slowing down, the beauty in simplicity, and the joy of nurturing life. They are not just pets; they are now her companions, her teachers, and her connection to a life that was is grounded, more peaceful, and infinitely richer.

Here are some of her favourite egg recipes

Classic scrambled

Ingredients: 2 eggs, salt, pepper, 1 tbsp butter, 4 tbsp of cream

Method: Beat eggs with salt, pepper. and cream. In a pan, melt butter, add eggs, and cook on low heat, stirring gently until set. Serve while still moist and wet.

FRITTATA/Italian Omelet

Ingredients: 6 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk or cream, 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) Salt and pepper, to taste, onion and any other vegetable or meat that you want to add that you have readily in the fridge.

Method: Preheat the over to 350. Whisk the eggs and cream with salt and pepper in a bowl. Sauce the vegetables in a pan until translucent and cooked; Add the egg mixture and put on the lid. Allow it to cook until the egg mixture is firm then top with the shredded cheese and grill for a few minutes or replace the lid and cook until the cheeses has melted.

Baked egg cup

Ingredients: 4 eggs, spinach, diced ham, cheese, salt, pepper.

Method: Line muffin tins with ham. Add spinach and cheese. Crack an egg into each tin, season, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Try to include eggs as part of your balanced diet. Their versatility makes them not just a breakfast food but an invaluable ingredient in a variety of delicious and easy-to-make dishes.