Sunshine gold feathers fanning delicately
Cloud-like poofs of great pillowy down
Vibrant eyes reflecting the green world
Rosy comb pinnacled in a crystalized crown
Sun breaking, hens stir on the 2×4 roosts
Eagerly tumble out when the door starts to rise
Chirrup over bits of corn, calling unseen chicks
Fuss over egg laying like each was a prize
Afternoons spent exploring the green thatchy lawn
Dust baths in the barn dirt, bugs in the garden
Snuggling and purring in my lap being petted
Sneaking into the mudroom when the door is left open
First on the roost at dusk, evening call
Cluck and squawk and settle together for nightfall
That was Buttercup, my dear golden hen
