I make up larger batches and only refresh when my my bucket gets down to about a cup or two. Then I just add in enough water and feed to get the right consistency and what I think will last me 4-5 days. By the next morning it is fermented and ready to feed again by using the innoculant left in my bucket. It does get stronger smelling as the days go by.HI,
I just wanted to report back that I held out with my chicks and they are now happily eating their FF. You were right, not a one of them stopped eating and died.
Thanks for the encouragement and helpful information. I'm so glad I didn't give up too soon.
On a side note, I'm keeping my FF on the counter in my kitchen. I bought one of those 2 gallon clear glass "cookie gar" like cannisters at Walmart recommended some place in FF world. Works wonderfully. Pretty big for my 4 tiny chicks but they will grow into it. Anyhow, my FF is 12 days old now and I'm starting to smell it in my house. Not complaining one bit....just saying because it's interesting. It seems to be perfect right now and hoping to keep it that way. That being said, I'm going to use more of it up before I add any new to it. I was a little exuberant with my first batch.
Thanks again!