behold: the coop!

Our most ambitious building project to date is finally finished. Michael decided to design it himself, and we put it together using free time on evenings and weekends—with two little ones "helping." (Good thing we started it in September.) The chickens seem to be settling in well; they're warm and dry and enjoy lovely views of the pond from the roosting spots we never imagined them using up in the rafters. Until yesterday, the coop was cloaked with a tarp to prevent rain from entering at the peak, until Michael installed the tricky metal roof cap. Lo and behold, it went on without a hitch. The gleaming galvanized roof brings a smile to my face whenever it catches my eye. And, as the rain pours down today, we breathe a sigh of proud relief.

Now, on to the next project...