David is one of this year's Farm Project, for artfully depicting the importance of farming in Vermont's communities.
The Chicken Coop
By David Amouretti
Grade five, Thomas Fleming School
I open the coop’s squeaky door.
I pass the rooster sleeping in a feathery mass.
He opens one eye, then closes it,
Deciding that I’m not a threat.
At the laying area, I reach in
The tiny room with the mother hens,
White, brown, spotted,
Sleeping on the side.
Waiting for a peck,
But nothing happens.
I count 1...2…3…4…
Four eggs.
My trembling hands gently pick them up.
They feel cold, chilling my fingers
In the already freezing winter.
Careful not to drop them,
I walk inside,
Ready for omelets.
