There's something so heartwarming about seeing the younger generation take an interest in age-old traditions and skills. Witnessing our grandson Parker take so much time in the world of chicken farming has been nothing short of a blessing.
From the moment we introduced Parker to the flock, his eyes lit up with curiosity and wonder. It was as if a whole new world opened before him, filled with clucking hens, fluffy chicks and the endless possibilities that come with caring for these feathered friends.
One of the most delightful moments has been watching him eagerly volunteer to help us with much needed farm chores. Whether it's feeding the chickens, cleaning the coop, or tending to the garden, he's always ready and willing to lend a hand. He also loves to ask many questions while he is trying to focus on the task at hand.
But his absolute favorite task? Gathering the eggs. He would much rather be able to gather them all in his shirt, rather than putting them in the basket. That is a sight itself to watch!
Parker climbs up and carefully reaches into the nest boxes, his little hands holding onto the warm, freshly laid eggs. The pride and joy that comes and the way his face lights up when he presents us with a basketful – or a shirt full – of eggs is priceless.
And let's not forget the sound that accompanies this daily ritual – the unmistakable call that echoes across the field: "Bak Bak!" It's the cutest thing, hearing his young voice ring out as he proudly announces his success.
But beyond the adorable moments and the fun of farm chores, there's an even deeper significance to teaching our grandson about raising chickens and caring for our land. It's about instilling a sense of responsibility and respect for nature in him, an understanding of where our food comes from.
In today's world, where food often comes from supermarkets and packages, it's easy for children to lose touch with the origins of where their meals originate. By involving Parker in the process of raising chickens, we're teaching him valuable life skills and helping him develop a deeper appreciation for the food on his plate.
As he grows older, it's essential for him to understand not just how to care for the chickens, but also how to process them. While that may seem like a daunting task for a young child, it's important for him to learn the importance of sustainability, self-sufficiency and providing for our family, and one day, his own family.
Teaching our children and grandchildren these skills isn't just about passing down traditions; it's about equipping them with the knowledge and values they need to thrive in the world. It's about fostering a connection to the land, respecting the animals we raise, and understanding the true value of hard work. Being able to watch Parker learn to raise chickens has been a joyous journey filled with laughter, learning, lots of patience and much love.
It's a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the importance of passing down wisdom from one generation to the next. As we continue to share these experiences with him, we're not just teaching him about chickens; we're teaching him about life. And for that, we feel truly blessed.
Ashley Carter is a wife, mother, and grandmother living in Elmore County, where she and her husband run Farm to Table Living and Carter Farms. She is the author of "Unexplainable: Inspirational Stories of God's Love in the Most Unique Ways." Ashley serves as Controller and Executive Assistant at 1819 News. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email ashley.carter@1819news.com.
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