Hot Days & Happy Dinosaurs: Summer with Our Chickens

Sweaty, Sun-Kissed, and Surrounded by Feathers

This summer has been hot—the kind of heat that makes your shirt stick to your back, your hair cling to your forehead, and your water bottle your constant companion. But honestly? I’m loving every sweaty, messy, joy-filled moment with our chickens.

Our little flock has found their summer groove—scratching, pecking, dust-bathing, and giving us the occasional judgmental side-eye when their treats don’t come fast enough. The boys have become my trusty chicken helpers, eager to hold their favorites and help with feed time. Even Jeremiah, who’s never been much of an animal lover, is the first to run out and scoop up Sunny or Justine. Watching their confidence grow around the chickens (and the chickens’ trust grow in return) has been one of my favorite parts of this whole adventure.

They’re not laying eggs yet—though we’re patiently waiting!—but this season has already given us something more. It’s about giving the boys something to look forward to, responsibilities they can truly own, and a sense of pride in caring for our flock. Whether they’re checking on the chickens, sitting with them, petting them, or simply loving on them, these moments matter. I love the way the sun catches on their feathers, showing off colors you’d swear belong in a painting—especially our rooster Petey, whose plumage is breathtaking. I love the soft clucking that follows me across the yard, and the laughter when one manages to sneak a snack before the others notice.

Yes, the heat can be brutal, and yes, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve refilled their waterers. But we’ve loved it, even in the swelter—especially when we make special cold treats just for them. Frozen peas send them into a happy frenzy, and extra ice packs in their water keep them refreshed and content. There’s something deeply grounding about tending to these silly, beautiful creatures. It slows us down—it slows me down. It makes me notice the small things. And in a season that often flies by, it’s a reminder to savor the simple joys: sunshine, laughter, and a yard full of happy “dinosaurs.”

Here’s to many more hot, sweaty, chicken-filled summer days. 🐓☀️❤️

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