Chickens come in all sizes and produce everything from small blue or green eggs to large brown and white ones, and everything in between. And who can pass up baby chicks at Tractor Supply??? SO CUTE!
.
When deciding what breeds to buy you need to first decide what your goals are. Are you wanting them just for fun and the experience? Will you be showing them at a fair? Will you be providing eggs for your family and maybe some neighbors?
.
You also need to take into consideration the climate you are in. Some chickens are better suited for the cold temps, like what we have here in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where I'm at.
.
Some of my favorite breeds for egg production are Rhode Island Reds and Isa Browns, and Plymouth Rocks. These all typically lay large brown eggs and will give you a good amount of eggs per year. Typically they will lay an egg daily for you during the warmer weather, usually 200-300 a year!) I also love white Leghorns and Cinnamon Queens, which give me some white eggs. Most of the white eggs from the store are from leghorns. In my flock I have a combination of all of these, as well as a couple Jersey Giants (and an AMAZING Jersey Giant rooster) and Australorps.
.
Silkies are adorable little birds, often with feathered feet, speckled decorated feathers or big poofy heads. If you are looking for the cute factor, this is what you are wanting! They will give you eggs, but they will be smaller than those up above as they are a much smaller bird. This is a good breed if you are in city limits or have a smaller backyard as you can typically fit 2 of them in the same space as one of the bigger breeds. They usually will give you colored eggs which are always fun.
.
No matter which breed you pick, chickens are a lot of fun and not very much work. If you have kids, they will LOVE having chickens and you will love the fresh eggs!
.
For more information on breeds, click below.
.
.
For those raising chickens currently, what breeds do you have?
Let’s talk about poop! Yep, I said it—poop. Everybody does it, but nobody wants to talk about it. Recently, I heard a mom (who also happens to be a doctor) share how she’s normalized poop talk in her house. When her kids go to the bathroom, she asks them about it. Why? Because it gives her clues on how their bodies are doing and what they might need to feel their best.
Let’s start with the basics:
Normal stool size: It should ideally be a few inches long—ideally between 4 and 8 inches. Think smooth, soft, and easy to pass. If you’re pooping out little balls or chunks, that’s not ideal.
Sinking poop: If your poop sinks like a rock, you might not be drinking enough water or eating enough fiber. Dehydration and lack of fiber can make things darker and denser, too.
Floating poop: An occasional floater isn’t a big deal—usually just extra gas from carbonated drinks, beans, or sugary foods. But if it’s happening often, it could point to a GI issue like IBS. If you’ve got other symptoms, check in with your doctor.
Pebble poop: Little pellet-like poops are a clear sign of constipation. It’s often diet or activity related but can also tie to hormones as we age. Up your water and fiber intake, and it should help.
Loose stool: Occasional loose stools or diarrhea are normal and often linked to something you ate or a virus. But if it’s happening all the time, sugar could be the culprit. Too much sugar (or sugary drinks like soda) can cause trouble, so try cutting back and see if it helps.
So today, here’s your homework: take a look at your 
. Yep, really. Check the texture and whether it sinks or floats. Tomorrow, we’re diving into the rainbow of poop colors. You’re excited, right?
. Yep, really. Check the texture and whether it sinks or floats. Tomorrow, we’re diving into the rainbow of poop colors. You’re excited, right? 
When the winter chill is in the air, nothing beats a warm cup of this tea packed with natural goodness to help keep your immune system in top shape! This Immunity Tea is the perfect blend of comforting flavors and powerful wellness benefits, featuring Young Living’s essential oils and some delicious, health-boosting ingredients.
🌟 Immunity Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz hot water (not boiling - keep under 165 degrees)
- 1 drop Thieves Vitality (supports a healthy immune system with its clove, cinnamon, and lemon blend)
- 1 drop Lemon Vitality (packed with antioxidants to cleanse and support your body)
- 1 drop Copaiba Vitality (helps support your body's natural responses)
- 1 tsp raw honey (natural soothing antioxidant properties)
- Juice of ½ a lemon (boosts vitamin C levels for added immune support)
- 2 star anise pods (contains natural compounds known to combat flu like symptoms!)
- 2 oz pineapple juice (rich in bromelain and vitamin C for immune health)
- OPTIONAL - 2oz NingXia Red packet for an extra antioxidant punch!
Instructions:
- Brew 8 oz of hot water in your favorite mug.
- Add the honey and stir to dissolve.
- Squeeze in the juice of ½ a lemon and pour in the pineapple juice.
- Add your drop of Thieves Vitality, Lemon Vitality, and Copaiba Vitality essential oils.
- Toss in the star anise pods for a fun visual and a hint of spice.
- Stir well, sip, and enjoy the warmth and wellness boost!
