My husband and I are kind of in the same boat. I grew up in farm country and he grew up in a small town. For many years we worked and eventually bought a farm. I had my first flock around 50 years ago, but then moved due to work where for several years I wasn't able to have birds. Around 20 years ago we bought our farm. Now he is a real farmer. We pretty much grow most of our produce and have a lot of chickens. I did get in to heritage breeds and do show my birds at poultry shows. I do have males and every year hatch out chicks. Good luck with your endeavor and have fun...