Chapter 48

All Thumbs

Farm accidents happen, not because farmers are less cognitively inclined, but because they do much more physical activity daily in harsh environments. The odds of things going wrong go up with the number of tasks done in a day.

We also tend to work longer than our energy holds out, which can lead to clumsiness. It's hard to quit when there is so much work to do—Moreso when you enjoy what you are doing.

Chapter 48: Clients

These birds had extraordinary lives for chickens doing what comes naturally. Too many roosters will "saddleback" your hens. They are so aggressive with their breeding nature that they remove all of the feathers on the hen's backs and thighs.

Young roosters are tender and delicious! Not to mention very quiet in the freezer.

My mini chicken truck. The tightly packed cage keeps the roosters from fighting while confined. They will only remain caged for an hour.

So many chickens! I knew it would be a long day ahead for my one-woman poultry operation.

Ready to start processing chickens. The bowls are for sorting parts out for packaging. I fill them with ice water.

My gauzed up, and stitched thumb is under the latex glove. The satisfaction of a perfect farm-raised chicken never gets old. Processing at home keeps costs down, and you get to keep feet, wingtips, and necks for the stock—livers, fries, and gizzards for all kinds of other dishes. Even the chicken lungs get boiled and fed to the dogs.

Packaged poultry aging for a few days in the fridge to make them tender and juicy.

Chapter 48: Portfolio