29/04/2026
It's been a heartbreaking morning. The first of my original "ten hens" passed away peacefully in my arms. Despite her name, "Kar-Hen" was a sweet girl who was always down for cuddles. She was quirky and had just the right amount of attitude.
Kar-Hen waited for me this morning. I woke up earlier than usual and noticed how heavy she was breathing and I knew it was almost time for her to cross the rainbow bridge. Her eyes were closed but I said her name and she turned in my direction. I picked her up and gently wrapped her in a blanket and put her in my lap. I pet her little beard and within a minute or so she had passed.
To some people, it's silly to name all of your chickens and become so attached to livestock. "Don't ever name your livestock". "Why do you become so attached? They're just going to die". I constantly think I must not be cut out for this homesteading world, I just get so deeply attached to all of my animals.
But today it occurred to me that is EXACTLY why I homestead. I cherish all of my animals because they deserve that. They should be treated with respect and dignity whether they're for eggs, food or companionship. And even if that means that I endure a whole lot of heartbreak, I'm okay with that.
Rest in eternal chicken heaven, Kar-Hen 💛
