I can actually blame my Dad and the hubby for my initial math problem. When we moved to this 10 acre farm I wanted a few hens for eggs. I had decided 6 would be plenty to provide eggs for us and my parents. I found a local farmer who had some point-of-lay pullets for sale, had it planned out when I would be ready with housing and scheduled pickup for after our upcoming vacation. I like to be prepared.
Weeeelll, the menfolk go to the feedstore for hay and grain. They decide to come home with a birthday surprise for moi. 19 CHICKS!!
"Look honey, we got 10 free chicks when we bought 5 and a bag of chick food! Tom threw in an extra couple as well. Isn't it great? Happy Birthday!"
So picture me now scrambling to put together a brooder, find a heat lamp, ward off a herd of various cats and dogs, and graciously thank the men I adore. I then had to make arrangements for a chick-sitter as we were leaving for vacation in two days.
I grin from ear to ear any time hubby dares to comment on the 90+ chooks that now call this place home. I remind him that I only wanted 6! (I did add those 6 pullets once the coop was finished.)