I am no longer scheduling chicken-related programs. But check my other website The Cooperative Horse for events there.
Upcoming Events
Previous Appearances
Here's a list of where I've been.
Hatching Party for Tillie Lays an Egg
Sunday January 11, 2009 3:00pm
The Concord Bookshop
Concord, MACome and meet me and Tillie at this book launch party. Egg nog, champagne and cookies!
Booksigning at the Northeast Poultry Congress
Saturday January 17, 2009 10:00am–1:00pm
If you’ve never been to a poultry show, this is your chance to see one of the best! The Congress takes place in the poultry building at the Big E fairground in Springfield, MA. Proceeds from this signing will go to the APA-ABA Youth Program.
Center Elementary School
Tuesday January 27, 2009 11:00am
Wilmington, CTI’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg to kindergarten and first grade classes. Sponsored by the UConn COOP.
Reading and Booksigning at Porter Square Books
Tuesday February 3, 2009 10:00am–11:00am
Porter Square Books
Cambridge, MAI’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg and then you can meet Tillie! Your choice of the first or second reading time. A couple of classrooms of kindergarteners from a local school will add to the fun energy of this program. Come and join us at Porter Square Books – one of my favorite Indie Bookstores! (They have the best lattes in Cambridge. Come early and get one.)
Acton-Boxborough Rotary Club Talk
Wednesday February 4, 2009 12:15pm
Scupperjack’s
Acton, MAI’ll talk to the Rotarians about the publishing world from the author’s perspective.
Westford Farmers Market Winter Program
Sunday March 8, 2009 5:00pm–7:30pm
First Parish Church
Westford, MAHow to Raise Chickens in Your Backyard and Egg Recipes! A Westford resident, with years of chicken-keeping experience, will talk about getting started with a backyard flock. I’ll talk about how to cook with fresh, delicious eggs from your own hens. Go to the market’s web site for details.
Wellesley Booksmith
Saturday March 21, 2009 2:00pm
Wellesley Booksmith
Wellesley, MATillie and a couple of other hens from Little Pond Farm will be at this terrific bookstore. I’ll readTillie Lays an Egg and sign books – but you know that the real stars of the show will be my chickens!
Carlisle Public Library
Wednesday March 25, 2009 7:00pm
Gleason Public Library
Carlisle, MAJoin Tillie and me for PJ story hour. (You don’t have to come in pajamas, but if you’d like to wear fuzzy slippers, you can!) Open to ages four and above.
Partners Village Store
Saturday March 28, 2009 10:30am–12:00pm
Partners Village Store
Westport, MACome and meet Tillie and me at this delightful store.
Booksigning at the Spring Artisan Craft Fair
Saturday April 4, 2009 9:00am–2:00pm
Union Congregational Church
Groton, MAI make pins and magnets out of discarded books and will be selling them at this country fair. I’ll also have a stack of Tillie Lays an Egg books to sign and sell. Groton is a quintessential New England town. One of my favorite plant nurseries is nearby. It’s worth a visit.
Reading and Booksigning at Book Ends
Sunday April 5, 2009 3:00pm
Book Ends
Winchester, MAI’ll be reading and signing books. Tillie will join me at this great indie store!
Reading and Booksigning at Northshire Book Store
Saturday April 11, 2009 2:00pm
Northshire Book Store
Manchester Center, VTNorthshire Book Store is an amazing indie bookstore in the gorgeous town of Manchester Center, Vermont. Make a day trip of it! This event is the day before Easter, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy a story about a chicken and her eggs. Tillie likes to travel in the car, and although it’s a long drive, we’ll both be there.
Groton Public Library
Thursday April 23, 2009 10:30am
Groton Public Library
Groton, MATillie and I will do a reading and booksigning. For ages 3 and up.
Winchester Public Library
Friday April 24, 2009 2:00pm
Winchester Public LibraryTillie and I will do a reading and booksigning.
Upton Public Library
Thursday May 14, 2009 2:30pm
Upton Public LibraryJoin Tillie and me for a special story time. We’ll be at the Town Hall (route 140 in the town center) so that there’s enough room for everybody. Upton’s indie bookstore, Kaleidoscope Books, will have Tillie Lays an Egg at the event and at their store for sale. After story time, I look forward to meeting with 4-H members from Upton.
Monadnock Writers Group
Saturday May 16, 2009 9:45am
I’ll be talking to this active group of writers about food writing.
Reading and Booksigning at the Toadstool Bookshop
Saturday May 16, 2009 2:00pm
Toadstool BookshopJoin me during the town-wide Children and the Arts Festival for a Tillie Lays an Egg reading at this delightful indie bookstore.
The Tobin School
Monday May 18, 2009
Tillie and I will be meeting several classrooms of children. Tillie Lays an Egg will be available for sale through Porter Square Books (one of my all-time favorite indie booksellers.)
Robbins Library
Wednesday May 20, 2009 10:30am
Arlington, MATillie and I will be in Arlington for the regular story hour. Please join us! There will be books available to purchase. I’m happy to chat with adults after the event – I know that there’s a movement afoot in Arlington to allow chickens in backyards. This is a your chance to introduce your neighbors to a real chicken.
Deviled Egg Cookoff
Monday June 1, 2009 7:30pm
Somerville, MATillie will be a celebrity hen at this deviled egg cookoff/party at PA’s Lounge in Somerville, MA. I think that this is the first time that a live chicken has been invited to a bar! We’re looking forward to meeting a whole different demographic than the three-year olds that we usually hang with. Besides, I LOVE deviled eggs. I’ll be bringing some of my own. Go here and here for more info.
Hampstead, NH Central School
Friday June 5, 2009 9:30am
Kindergarten class visit. Hopefully, their eggs will have all hatched by the time Tillie and I arrive.
Barnes and Noble
Thursday June 11, 2009 10:30am
Saugus, MAI’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg at the regular storytime at the Saugus, MA store. I can’t bring a live chicken because of the cafe, but I will have real eggs to show off and some of the props from the book. I hope to see you there!
Chickenstock
Sunday June 14, 2009 9:00am–2:00pm
Keene, NHDon’t miss this chicken swap and farm crafters sale held in the Agway parking lot 80 Martell Court (google for directions.) It’s being organized by a member of the BYC forum. I’ll be signing copies of Tillie Lays an Egg and the Farmstead Egg Cookbook, and selling pins and magnets made from vintage books – many with farm animal images!
Sherborn Public Library
Wednesday July 1, 2009 3:00pm
Join Tillie and me for a special story time at the library.
Nantucket Atheneum
Friday July 24, 2009 11:30am
Nantucket AtheneumI’m taking the ferry to Nantucket just so that I can read Tillie Lays an Egg at this library. Join me for a special storytime in this special place.
Palms Rancho Branch Library
Thursday August 6, 2009 4:00pm
Palms Rancho Branch LibraryI’ll be in LA for the SCBWI Conference and have arranged to fly in early to do a special storytime at this LA Public Library. I won’t have Tillie with me, but I will have props from Tillie Lays an Egg.
West Coast HenCam Party and Tillie Booksigning
Sunday August 9, 2009 11:00am–1:00pm
Chevalier’s Books
Los Angeles, CAThis wonderful indie bookstore has offered to host a West Coast HenCam Party! I can’t wait to meet you! Let’s make this a summer gathering of West Coast chicken fans! The local farmers market will be in full swing nearby. I’ll have cookies for guests. It’ll be a wonderful way to spend the morning in LA. Email me i if you’re coming so I can plan ahead and bring enough sweets.
Chelmsford Public Library
Thursday August 13, 2009 10:00am
Join me and Tillie for story time!
Storytime at The Country Club
Sunday September 20, 2009 4:00pm
This event is for members only. They’re having their first Farmers’ Market/Family Lawn event. Tillie and I are looking forward to it! We’ll have our own storytime tent.
Storytime at the Framingham Barnes & Noble
Tuesday September 22, 2009 12:30pm
Join me for storytime. I’ll be bringing the real, live, Tillie!
Westford Mass. Farmers’ Market
Tuesday October 13, 2009 2:00pm
I’ll be at the Westford Farmers Market to talk about keeping backyard hens. Stop by!
Springfield, Vermont Public Library
Wednesday October 14, 2009 3:30pm
Join me and Tillie for for this “Discovery Hour” where I’ll read Tillie Lays an Egg and talk about all things chicken.
Preschool Program
Monday November 30, 2009
The Childrens Place at Phillips Academy
Andover, MAThe children at this preschool have been learning all about farm animals. Tillie and I will be there to talk about chickens!
Preschool Program
Wednesday January 27, 2010
The Bright Horizons Childrens Center, Brickstone Place
Andover, MAThe children at this preschool have been learning all about farm animals. Tillie and I will be there to talk about chickens!
Westford Farmers Market Winter Series: Keeping Chickens
Sunday February 21, 2010 4:00pm
Westford Farmers Market
Westford, MAI’ll be part of a panel of chicken-keeping experts. This program is for beginners and experienced flock owners.
Backyard Chickens at the Boston Museum of Science
Wednesday March 3, 2010 7:00pm
Writer Susan Orlean will be talking about her experiences with her flock of hens (and one surprise rooster). I’ll be there with the “talent” – several chickens for everyone to meet and greet. This is going to be a fun evening! Reservations required.
Preschool Visit
Wednesday March 10, 2010
The Frost School
Westford, MAI’ll be visiting three preschool classrooms with Tillie!
Backyard Chicken Keeping
Saturday March 13, 2010
The Wild Center
Tupper Lake, NYJoin me for this winter talk at The Wild Center in the Adirondacks. I’ll share what I know about keeping a home flock of hens. I’ll also be doing a children’s program in which I’ll read Tillie Lays an Egg and talk about chickens.
Tillie on MARTHA!
Friday April 2, 2010
The Martha Stewart ShowTillie and I will be driving down to NYC on Monday, March 29. We’ll spend the night at a posh boutique hotel in SoHo. Then, on March 30. we’ll go to the Martha Stewart studios and tape a segment for The Martha Stewart Show! The show will air on April 2 (check your local listings.)
Tillie Story Time at D2E
Saturday April 10, 2010 2:00pm
The D2E Sustainable Living Expo
Boston, MAI’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg and everyone can meet Tillie.
School Visit
Thursday April 15, 2010
The MLK School, and the Amigos School
Cambridge, MAI’ll be visiting the kindergarten and pre-K classrooms with Tillie courtesy of their wonderful library!
Preschool Visit
Thursday May 6, 2010
The Bright Horizons
Newburyport, MAI’ll be visiting three preschool classrooms with Tillie!
Bright Horizon’s Family Literacy Festival
Saturday May 22, 2010 11:00am
The Bright Horizons
Bedford, MAThis children’s center is having a special day to celebrate reading. It’s open to the public. I’ll be there at 11 am to read from Tillie Lays an Egg. Tillie will be with me, too. Come and say hello!
School Visit
Friday May 28, 2010
The Bishop Elementary School
Arlington, MAI’ll be visiting the kindergarten and first grade classrooms with Tillie!
Somerville Library Visit
Monday June 28, 2010 11:00am
Central Library
Somerville, MAI’ll be doing a special story time to kick of the library’s summer reading program!
Library Visit
Tuesday June 29, 2010 10:00am
The Gay-Kimball Library
Troy, NHI’ll be visiting the library with Tillie for storytime.
Harvard Farmers Market
Saturday September 25, 2010 9:00am–12:00pm
Harvard, MAI’ll be at the information table at the Harvard Farmers Market Backyard Chicken Day.
Walpole Public Library
Wednesday November 10, 2010 10:30am
Join Tillie and me for storytime!
Billerica Library
Saturday November 13, 2010 10:30am
Tillie and I will be doing a storytime at the Billerica Library.
Family Trees: A Celebration of Childrens Literature
Friday December 3, 2010 — Sunday January 2, 2011
Concord Museum
Concord, MAThis is the 15th year that the Concord Museum has held this event, and I’m honored that Tillie Lays an Egg has been selected to inspire one of the decorated trees. I’ll be at the museum—sitting by my tree—on December 4. However, the display runs from December 3 through January 2 and it’s worth visiting even if I’m not there! Go to the museum’s web site to find out more about this holiday tradition.
Groveland Library
Saturday March 26, 2011 10:30am
Tillie and I will be doing a storytime at the Groveland Library.
Chicken Keeping Talk at the Westford Green Fair
Saturday April 2, 2011 11:30am–12:15pm
Westford Green Fair
Westford, MAI’ll be sharing what I know about getting started with backyard chickens during this 45-minute slide show and lecture. The fair runs 10 am to 2 pm.
Central Cooperative Preschool
Monday April 4, 2011 — Tuesday April 5, 2011
Storytime with Tillie in Chelmsford, MA!
Chicken Keeping Workshop at the Chelmsford Agway
Saturday April 9, 2011 10:00am–12:00pm
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MACome at 10 am for a 30 minute talk about getting started with chickens. I’ll be at the Agway until noon to answer your questions.
Wayland Library
Wednesday April 20, 2011 1:00pm
Wayland, MATillie and I will be doing a storytime. Come and join us on this special event for vacation week.
Earth Day programs at Earthplace
Saturday April 30, 2011
Earthplace
Westport, CTI’ll be on hand at Earthplace for two programs, a storytime with Tillie Lays an Egg, and a Q & A table and workshop on Getting Started Wtih Backyard Chickens.
Peter Noyes Elementary School
Tuesday May 3, 2011
Tillie and I will be in Sudbury, MA, meeting the kindergarten students!
St. Mary School
Wednesday May 4, 2011
Shrewsbury, MAI’ll be meeting the pre-K through third grade classes.
Preschool Programs in Westford
Monday May 23, 2011 — Tuesday May 24, 2011
Westford, MATillie and I will be visiting the preschool children.
Storytime at the Elephant’s Trunk Bookshop!
Wednesday June 29, 2011 10:30am
Elephant’s Trunk Bookshop
Lexington, MATillie and I will be visiting this childrens’ bookshop at 10:30 am. I’ll read Tillie Lays an Egg, and then everyone can pet Tillie!
Springboard School
Friday July 22, 2011
Chelmsford, MATillie and I will be visiting this preschool.
Chicken Keeping Workshop here at Little Pond Farm
Saturday July 30, 2011 2:00pm–4:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou are invited learn about backyard chicken keeping here at Little Pond Farm. I’ll go over all of the basics of how to get started with your own flock. We’ll cover housing, feeding, and health issues, breed selection and buying poultry, You’ll even learn how to pick up a chicken! You’ll get to tour my property, see the gardens, the compost, and meet the goats. $20 per person (includes iced tea and cookies) 15 people maximum. Email to sign up and for more details.
Skype Visit
Wednesday September 21, 2011
I’ve been in touch with the librarians and students in the Temecula, California elementary school for a few years, and now I’m finally going to meet them via Skype!
Chicken Keeping Workshop here at Little Pond Farm
Saturday September 24, 2011 2:00pm–4:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou are invited learn about backyard chicken keeping here at Little Pond Farm. I’ll go over all of the basics of how to get started with your own flock. We’ll cover housing, feeding, and health issues, breed selection and buying poultry, You’ll even learn how to pick up a chicken! You’ll get to tour my property, see the gardens, the compost, and meet the goats. $20 per person (includes iced tea and cookies) 15 people maximum. Email to sign up and for more details.
Getting Your Coop Ready for Winter Workshop at the Chelmsford Agway
Saturday October 8, 2011 11:00am
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MAI’ll be talking about how to keep your chickens healthy this winter. I’ll discuss housing, feed and water. There will be time for Q & A, too!
Lesley Ellis School Visit
Tuesday November 8, 2011
I’ll be bringing Agatha and Betsy to meet the pre-K through 6th grades.
North Grafton Elementary School
Wednesday January 11, 2012
I’ll be spending a half day at the North Grafton School.
Chicken Keeping Talk
Saturday February 25, 2012 11:00am
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MAFree and open to the public! I’ll be speaking about getting started with your backyard flock.
Skype Visit to the La Canada School in California
Friday March 16, 2012
I’ll be taking the students on a tour of the barns via Skype and my iPad!
Chicken Keeping Workshop here in my backyard!
Saturday March 31, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou’ll get a tour of the coops and see first-hand how to keep a healthy, peaceful flock of hens in your backyard. Homemade cookies included. $25. Tor register, email me.
Abbey Kelley Foster Charter School
Wednesday April 11, 2012
I’ll be meeting all of the first graders at this school in Worcester, MA.
Skype Visit to the Grand Prairie School in Texas
Thursday April 12, 2012
I’ll be taking the students on a tour of the barns via Skype and my iPad!
Chicken Keeping Workshop here in my backyard!
Saturday April 14, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou’ll get a tour of the coops and see first-hand how to keep a healthy, peaceful flock of hens in your backyard. Homemade cookies included. $25. Tor register, email me.
Sargent Memorial Library
Tuesday April 17, 2012 2:00pm
Sargent Memorial Library
Boxborough, MAStorytime during school vacation week! Come and say hello to me and one of my hens.
Chicken Keeping Talk
Tuesday April 24, 2012 6:30pm
Billerica Public Library
Billerica, MAFree and open to the public! I’ll be speaking about getting started with your backyard flock.
A Visit to Our Lady’s Academy
Thursday May 3, 2012
Waltham, MAI’ll be doing my Tillie Lays an Egg program for the pre-K. With Agatha!
Chicken Keeping Talk at the Farmers’ Museum
Wednesday May 16, 2012 7:00pm
The Farmers’ Museum
Cooperstown, NYI’ll be in Cooperstown, NY at this living history museum to talk about backyard chicken keeping.
A Visit to the Peter Noyes School
Wednesday May 23, 2012
Peter Noyes Elementary School
Sudbury, MAI’ll be doing my Tillie Lays an Egg program for 4 Kindergarten classes. With Agatha!
Concord Museum Garden Tour
Friday June 1, 2012 — Saturday June 2, 2012
Concord MuseumEight gardens are on this tour, including mine! This is your chance to tour my yard, see the chickens, goats and vegetable garden, and even spy the Beast. All for a very good cause.
Rhode Island Storytime
Friday June 1, 2012 5:30pm–7:30pm
Providence Children’s Museum
Providence, RI
Google MapI’ll be there with a chicken! Details here!
Storytime at The Somerville Growing Center
Friday June 8, 2012 10:30am
Somerville Growing Center
Somerville, MAI’ll be at this community garden and educational center, with a friendly hen, for a Tillie Lays an Egg Storytime. No registration necessary – just drop in! Also, courtesy of the Growing Center, I’ll be visiting a preschool at The Somerville Childcare Center.
Chicken Keeping Workshop here in my backyard!
Saturday June 9, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou’ll get a tour of the coops and see first-hand how to keep a healthy, peaceful flock of hens in your backyard. Homemade cookies included. $25. This workshop is full.
Chicken Keeping Workshop here in my backyard!
Sunday June 10, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Carlisle, MAYou’ll get a tour of the coops and see first-hand how to keep a healthy, peaceful flock of hens in your backyard. Homemade cookies included. $25. This workshop is full.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday July 7, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Carlisle, MASpend two hours learning what to do in order to have a happy, peaceful, healthy flock of laying hens in your backyard. Everything from coop design to chicken health and behavior will be covered. You’ll learn how to pick up a chicken, see what caring for chickens entails, and tour my gardens and compost system. Ice tea and homemade cookies included! $35 per person. This workshop is full.
Chelmsford Farmers Market
Thursday August 2, 2012 3:30pm–4:30pm
Chelmsford Farmers Market
Chelmsford, MAI’ll be talking about backyard chicken keeping for the Farmers Market education events program. Come for the presentation and stay for Q & A.
Book Signing
Sunday September 9, 2012 2:00pm–3:00pm
Ferns Country Store
Carlisle, MA
Google MapI live in a small community with an unusually high proportion of published authors. Ferns, the general store in the center of town (it’s the only store in town!) is hosting a Carlisle Author’s Booksigning. I’ll be there with copies of Tillie Lays an Egg. Stop by!
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday September 22, 2012 1:00pm–3:00pm
Spend two hours in my backyard learning everything you need to know to get started with your own flock of hens. I’ll cover a wide range of topics, from chicken behavior, to housing, to health. You’ll see firsthand how I protect my chickens from predators, compost the manure, and keep the coops clean and tidy. You’ll learn how to handle these birds and even pick up a hen! The workshop is rain or shine, and as always, includes iced tea and homemade cookies. $40 per person. Limited to 14 participants. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.
Cancellation policy—up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refund after September 16.
Urban Chicken Keeping Lecture
Wednesday October 3, 2012 6:30pm–8:30pm
Groundwork Somerville
Somerville, MA
Google MapThis slide show and lecture is for the city hen keeper. I’ll show you how a small flock of hens can be housed and cared for in an urban/suburban plot. It’s sponsored by NOFA and will be held at Groundwork Somerville. Register here.
Nursing Home Visit
Tuesday October 16, 2012
Life Care Center of Nashoba Valley
Littleton, MAI’ll be visiting the Life Care Center of Nashoba Valley (in Littleton, MA) and will have a hen with me for the memory loss residents to meet.
Preparing Your Chickens For Winter
Saturday October 20, 2012 11:00am
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Chelmsford, MA Agway to talk about winter chicken care for your backyard flock. This seminar is free!
Chicken Q & A
Saturday December 15, 2012 10:00am–2:00pm
Carlisle Winter Farmer’s Market
Carlisle, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Carlisle Farmer’s Market Winter Fair to answer questions about backyard chicken keeping. Come to my table between 10 am and 2 pm to talk poultry. I’ll also be selling totes made of feed bags, and will have my books for sale, including my newest, Vintage Chicken Photographs: 30 Postcards!
HenCam Meet Up at Poultry Congress
Saturday January 19, 2013 12:00pm–1:00pm
Northeastern Poultry Congress
Springfield, MA
Google MapEvery year I try to go to the Northeastern Poultry Congress in Springfield, Massachusetts where I can see hundreds of beautiful birds and learn from expert breeders. This year, let’s walk the aisles together! Meet me in front of the food concession stand at noon. Bring a lunch and we can chat. Then we’ll go and look at the chickens. I’ll be wearing a beige baseball cap embroidered with the HenCam logo. Let me know if you’ll be there!
Note: Tell the parking lot attendant that you’re coming for the poultry show and parking will be free.
Backyard Chicken Talk at NOFA-NJ
Sunday January 27, 2013
Brookdale Community College
Lincroft, NJ
Google MapThe Northeast Organic Farming Association of NJ runs an outstanding winter conference. I’ll be there on Sunday, January 27 to talk about backyard chicken keeping.
Chick Care Workshop
Saturday February 16, 2013 11:00am–12:00pm
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking about chick selection and chick care at the Chelmsford Agway on Saturday, Feb 16. The workshop is at 11 and there will be time afterwards for Q & A about all things chicken.
World Read Aloud Day
Wednesday March 6, 2013 10:00am–3:00pm
I’ll be doing four free Skype visits at schools from California to New Hampshire to celebrate WRAD. This year, I’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg while sitting amongst the Gems. Chaos? Likely. Fun? Definitely. Watch on the BarnCam. The first Skype visit will be at 11 am EST, the last at 2:30 pm.
Chicken Keeping Talk
Tuesday March 12, 2013 7:00pm–9:00pm
Dover-Sherborn Community Education
Dover, MA
Google MapI’ll be doing a backyard chicken keeping talk and slideshow in Dover. Sign-up is through Dover-Sherborn Community Education. I’m on page 7 of this catalog.
Storytime at the Concord Library
Saturday March 16, 2013 10:00am–10:45am
Concord Library
Concord, MA
Google MapI’ll be bringing a hen to the Concord Library for this storytime. It’s part of the Concord Reads About Farming And Food program in concert with the Concord Museum’s exhibit, The Greatest Source of Wealth: Agriculture in Concord.
Preschool Storytime
Friday March 22, 2013 10:00am–11:30am
I’ll be at the Concord Carousel for a preschool storytime. With a hen, of course!
Bay Path College Early Educators Class
Saturday March 23, 2013 3:00pm–4:00pm
I’ll be talking to a group of educators about what makes an engaging storytime, and how to go use a picture book as a jump-off for learning and writing. I’ll be bringing a chicken as an assistant!
Meet Me In Austin!
Friday March 29, 2013 — Saturday March 30, 2013
I’m flying down to Austin, Texas! Lauren Scheuer and I will be in the Lone Star State for the Austin Funky Chicken Coop Tour. Join us at the Driskill Bar at 5:30 on Friday, March 29. We know it’s a fancy place, but, we’ve never been. We’re tourists! On Saturday, March 30, we’ll be at Buck Moore Feed from 10 am until 2 pm (when we’ll skedaddle and try to see as many coops as we can.) Lauren will be signing copies of her new book, and I’ll have copies of Vintage Chicken Photographs: 30 Postcards for sale. Please email me if you’re going to join us.
Thoreau School Visit
Friday April 5, 2013 8:00am–2:00pm
The second graders are hatching chicks! I get to be part of the educational fun of this springtime program. I’ll bring a hen so the children can see what the chicks will grow into.
School Visit
Wednesday April 10, 2013
I’ll be bringing a hen to Our Lady’s Academy in Waltham, MA, where we’ll meet the pre-K and K classes.
Spring Chickens: Basics of Urban Chicken Keeping
Wednesday April 24, 2013 7:00pm–8:30pm
Groundwork Somerville
Somerville,
Google MapI’ll be in Somerville, MA, to talk about urban chicken keeping. During this slide show/lecture I’ll cover everything you’ll need to know to get started with a small flock of hens in a city setting.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday April 27, 2013 1:00pm–3:00pm
This workshop is FULL. Spaces remain in the June 8 workshop. Keep an eye on this events page, as I’ll be adding more programs!
This 2 hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system.) I’ll have 25 chicks in a brooder, so you’ll be able to observe first-hand how to care for young birds. And, I’ll show you how to handle the older hens. You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after April 23. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.Storytime in the Backyard
Friday May 10, 2013 2:00pm–3:00pm
I’ll be hosting 6 five-year olds for a private storytime in my backyard. The goats are sure to get some attention.
School Visit
Wednesday May 15, 2013
I’ll be at the Peter Noyes School, in Sudbury, MA, to read Tillie Lays an Egg and talk about chickens. I’ll be meeting all of the Kindergarten students who will have been hatching eggs and learning about farm animals. Of course, I’ll be bringing a hen!
School Visit
Thursday May 23, 2013 8:00am–5:00pm
I’ll be visiting the kindergarten students at Our Lady’s Academy in Waltham. With a chicken, of course!
Milldam Preschool Visit
Tuesday May 28, 2013 — Monday June 3, 2013 10:00am–11:00am
I’ll be at the Milldam nursery school for a Tillie Lays an Egg Storytime. With a hen, of course!
School Visit
Thursday June 6, 2013 9:00am–11:00am
I’ll be bringing Amber to the Haynes School in Sudbury for their Chicken Festival.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday June 8, 2013 10:00am–12:00pm
This 2 hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system.) You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after June 4. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.A Hen Visits the Girl Scouts
Wednesday July 24, 2013 7:00pm–8:00pm
Camp Maude Eaton
Andover, MAI’ll be doing an hour-long program for the Girl Scouts at Camp Maude Eaton in Andover, Ma. I’ll be talking all about chickens, chicken care, and the science of chicken poop and egg laying. Perfect camp topics! I’ll be bringing a hen, too.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday July 27, 2013 1:00pm–3:00pm
This 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system.) You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after July 24. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.PJ Storytime for CI-using Children
Saturday July 27, 2013 6:45pm–7:15pm
Boxborough Holiday Inn
Boxborough, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Northeast Cochlear Implant Convention to do a PJ Storytime for cochlear implant-using children. I’m planning on leading a chorus of cock-a-doddle-dos and cluck-clucks! I’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg, too.
Goddard School Visit
Wednesday August 7, 2013 10:00am
I’ll be bringing a chicken to meet the children at the Goddard School in Westford, MA.
NY Now Gift Show
Sunday August 18, 2013 — Tuesday August 20, 2013
I’ll be an exhibitor at NY Now showing off two new titles in my series of postcard books of vintage photographs, Vintage Farm Animals and Vintage Dog Photos. If you’re in the Big Apple for the show, stop in and see me at the Ellie and Friends booth, number 7517 on Level 1. Email to let me know you’re coming.
Backyard Chicken Talk in Kingston, Ontario
Monday August 26, 2013 12:00pm–1:00pm
Ban Righ Centre
Kingston, Ontario
Google MapI’ve been invited to talk about backyard chickens at the Ban Righ Centre, in Kingston, Ontario. They have a lunchtime speaker series, and I’ll be kicking off this season’s lineup. The program is free (soup available for a donation) and open to the public.
Programs at The Wild Center
Tuesday August 27, 2013
The Wild Center
Tupper Lake, NYI’ll be spending the day at The Wild Center, in the heart of the Adirondacks. I’ll be doing two programs, a Backyard Chicken Keeping Talk, and a Tillie Lays an Egg Storytime. Check the Wild Center’s website for details.
Chicken Keeping Lecture at Cluck!
Tuesday September 10, 2013 6:30pm–8:00pm
Cluck!
Providence, RI
Google MapThere’s a new urban farm store in Providence, RI, called Cluck! and with a name like that, of course I have to go there to give a Chicken Keeping Lecture. Join me for an hour talk, and stay for a Q & A.
$15 for adults, children are free. Contact Cluck! to register.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday September 21, 2013 1:00pm–3:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system.) You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after September 15. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.From The Backyard To The Kitchen
Saturday October 19, 2013 11:00am–1:00pm
Verrill Farm
Concord, MA
Google MapFor two weeks this fall the Concord Festival of Authors will have programs celebrating the written word. I’ll be on a panel discussion: From the Backyard To The Kitchen. Please join me for this event. It takes place at Verrill Farm, a family owned and run farm stand with homegrown produce and a superb prepared food department (cooked by Jennifer Verrill and her talented staff.)
Pie Baking Class
Saturday October 26, 2013 1:00pm–4:00pm
LIttle Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapWhen people ask me what is your favorite thing to cook?, I answer PIE! At Thanksgiving I’ll bake over twenty pies (of more than a dozen varieties.) My pies have even been written up in Woman’s Day Magazine. For me, pies are easy, throw-together, joyous foods to make. But, many of you have pie anxiety. The crust trips you up. The thought of soggy filling stops you from trying. If you want to bake pie, but the thought of it fills you with trepidation, then this class is for you. I’ll show you how to make perfect crust. You’ll learn how to roll out the dough, pre-bake a crust, and also how to freeze pastry for future use. I’ll even teach you how to press in a graham cracker crust. After my demo, you’ll be making your own crusts! It takes experience, and you’ll have the time learn the technique and the feel in my kitchen.
Next, we’ll make two pies, a classic apple, and a lemon tart. You’ll learn how to do a crumble topping, and also a lattice weave. Leftover crust will be turned into cookies!
You’ll go home with your own apple pie in a glass baking dish, ready to bake off.
Class size is strictly limited to six people.
$80 per person includes a pie in a glass dish to take home. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $60. No refunds after October 19.
Wear an apron!
Meet Jan Brett (and Me!)
Monday November 25, 2013 4:00pm–6:00pm
Amato Center For the Performing Arts
Milford, NH
Google MapJan Brett will be doing a book signing for her new book, Cinders, A Chicken Cinderella Story, in Milford NH on Monday, November 25. I’ve been invited to join a couple of other chicken bloggers to chat about backyard chicken keeping and to keep the people in the long line waiting to meet Jan, entertained. I will have copies of Tillie Lays an Egg, and my vintage photograph books, available for sale.
*note that this is sponsored by The Toadstool Bookshop, but will be at the Amato Center for the Performing Arts, and not at the bookstore!
School Visit
Friday January 17, 2014 8:00am–12:00pm
I’ll be bringing a hen to the North Grafton Elementary School to do Tillie Lays an Egg storytimes. I’m scheduling springtime school visits now. Go here to read more about my school programs.
Northeast Poultry Congress
Saturday January 18, 2014
The Big E
Springfield, MAI’ll have a table at the Northeast Poultry Congress with my books for sale. Stop by. Pull up a chair to chat. The Congress is worth the drive. A thousand birds! Fancy feathers! Crazy chicken people! Let me know if you’re coming.
Chick Care Workshop
Saturday February 22, 2014 11:00am–11:45am
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Chelmsford Agway to talk about chick care. I’ll be discussing how to take care of chicks during their first 8 weeks. I’ll cover bedding, heat, feed, supplements and handling. This is free and open to the public!
Tillie Lays an Egg Storytime
Sunday March 2, 2014 1:30pm–2:00pm
Townsend Public Library
Townsend, MA
Google MapI’ll be reading Tillie Lays an Egg, and talking all about chickens, at the Townsend Public LIbrary. I won’t be alone – I’ll have a live and friendly hen with me!
Chicken Keeping Lecture
Sunday March 2, 2014 2:30pm–4:00pm
Townsend Public Library
Townsend, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking all about backyard chicken keeping at the Townsend Public Library. Come for my hour talk, and stay for Q & A afterwards!
Wayland Farmers’ Market
Saturday March 15, 2014 10:00am–2:00pm
Wayland Winter Farmers’ Market
Wayland, MA
Google MapI’ll have a table at the Wayland Winter Farmers’ Market. I’ll have my books to sign and sell, and I’ll have the time to chat about chickens and eggs with anyone who stops by. Please do!
Talk and Book Signing
Sunday March 16, 2014 3:00pm–4:00pm
The Concord Bookshop
Concord, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking about all things chicken and eggs at The Concord Bookshop. There will be a hen! And homemade eggy snacks! There will be copies of The Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook for sale! And my books of vintage animal photographs. And Tillie Lays an Egg. Please come.
Talk and Book Signing at the Toadstool
Saturday March 22, 2014 2:00pm–3:00pm
Toadstool Bookshop
Milford, NH
Google MapTo celebrate the publication of The Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook, I’ll be at the Toadstool Bookshop in Milford, NH for a discussion about hens, eggs and cooking. Come at 2 pm for the talk, and then stay to chat.
Chicken Keeping Talk
Saturday March 29, 2014 10:00am–12:00pm
Newbury Public Library
Byfield, MA
Google MapI’ll be giving a Backyard Chicken Keeping Talk at the Newbury Town Library. This program is free and open to the public.
Chicken Keeping Talk
Sunday March 30, 2014 10:00am–11:00am
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Chelmsford Agway for a morning talk about backyard chicken keeping. This seminar is free and open to the public.
Bring your questions!Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday April 5, 2014 2:00pm–4:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system.) You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 12 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after March 29. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.Talk and Book Signing
Tuesday April 8, 2014 7:00pm–8:00pm
Porter Square Books
Cambridge, MA
Google MapI’ll be at one of my favorite indie bookstores, Porter Square Books, to do a talk and book signing.
School Vacation Storytime
Thursday April 24, 2014 10:00am–10:30am
Billerica Public Library
Billerica, MA
Google MapI will be at the Billerica Public Library for a school vacation storytime on Thursday, April 24, at a10 am. Of course, I’ll have a hen with me.
Meet and Greet in Roslindale!
Saturday April 26, 2014 12:00pm–3:00pm
Joanne Rossman
Roslindale, MA
Google MapI’ll be in Roslindale Village (just outside of Boston) in Joanne Rossman’s original, quirky and creative shop. I’ll be there to meet and greet and chat. Come by anytime between noon and three pm.
2nd Grade Visit
Friday May 2, 2014 8:00am–5:00pm
I’ll be visiting with the second graders at the Thoreau School in Concord, MA and teaching them all about chickens and eggs. Of course, I’ll have a hen with me!
Kindergarten Visit
Wednesday May 7, 2014
A hen and I will be doing Tillie Lays an Egg storytimes for all of the kindergartners at the Peter Noyes School in Sudbury, Ma.
Birches School
Thursday May 8, 2014 8:00am–5:00pm
The Birches is a nature-based school in Lincoln, MA. They are hatching chicks and will be keeping them on campus as a permanent flock. I’ll be spending an hour with the students talking about chickens and their care.
Advanced Chicken Keeping Class
Saturday May 17, 2014 1:00pm–3:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapUPDATE: This class is full. If there is enough interest, I will create a morning session. Please email me if you’d like to be on the wait list for the afternoon program, or to sign up for a possible morning class.
This 2-hour class is for people who already have chickens. I’ll go over all of the major ailments that chickens get, and a few of the more obscure illnesses that I’ve seen. I’ll talk about practical and effective health care, from maintenance to what to do in the case of a sudden health crisis. I’ll talk about the issues that aging hens have, what to do to keep them active and comfortable, and when to euthanize. Internal and external parasites will be covered. I’ll also delve into some of the more problematic chicken behavior, from feather picking to hen-on-hen aggression. This class takes place in my backyard at Little Pond Farm in Carlisle, MA.
Iced tea and cookies provided! $40 per person. Adults and teenagers only (graphic photographs from autopsies will be shown.)
The class runs rain or shine. Refund policy: refund of $35 up to May 14. No refunds after May 14.
Northshire Bookstore Cookbook Group Program
Sunday May 18, 2014 11:00am–12:00pm
Northshire Book Store
Manchester Center, VT
Google MapThe Northshire Bookstore in Manchester, Vermont, has a cookbook group (why don’t all bookstores have this? Brilliant!), and I’ll be their guest on Sunday, May 18th at 11 am. The cookbook group will choose recipes ahead of the event and will bring dishes from The Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook to share with each other and general event attendees. I’ll speak to the group about the book, my hens, eggs, developing recipes, and more. Q & A with audience, and a book signing will follow.
The Northshire Bookstore is in a beautiful corner of western Vermont. It’s worth the drive!
Lunenburg Elementary School
Thursday May 22, 2014 8:00am–5:00pm
I’ll be spending a half-day with the first graders in Lunenburg, MA. I look forward to meeting them, reading Tillie Lays an Egg, and talking about chickens!
Book Signing at Verrill Farm
Saturday May 24, 2014 12:00pm–2:00pm
Verrill Farm
Concord, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the Verrill Farm Asparagus Festival. This family working farm in Concord, MA, has nurtured their asparagus beds for generations. The granddaughter of the man who planted the asparagus is a talented chef who works in the farmstand’s kitchen. I’ll be at Verrill Farm to help celebrate the harvest and the coming growing season. Look for me, and one of my hens, at the entrance to the farmstand. There is a fee for the asparagus lunch (and well worth it!) but you don’t have to pay to meet one of my hens and chat about chickens. All of my books will be available for sale and signing. Stop by!
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday May 31, 2014 10:00am–12:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system). You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 12 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after May 24. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.
New England Mobile Book Fair
Saturday June 7, 2014 1:00pm–2:00pm
New England Mobile Book Fair
Newton Highlands, MA
Google MapI’m delighted to be doing a Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook program at a beloved indie bookstore – The New England Mobile Book Fair. I’ll be talking about backyard hens and the pleasures of cooking with their good eggs. There will be time for Q & A afterwards. Of course, I’ll have a chicken with with. Stop by and say hello.
Reading and Book Signing at Tower Hill
Wednesday June 11, 2014 7:00pm–8:00pm
Tower Hill Botanical Garden
Boylston, MA
Google MapTower Hill Botanic Garden is one of the premier public gardens in my region. I’ll be there on Wednesday, June 11, for a reading from The Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook, and afterwards I’ll be available to and answer your questions. This is the perfect excuse to go to Tower HIll, walk the trails, enjoy the Orangerie and Limonaia, and then talk about chickens. I am so looking forward to it, and hope to see you there!
Revisioning Sustainability
Monday June 23, 2014 7:30am–9:00pm
On June 22 through 25, UMass Amherst is hosting the Revisioning Sustainability Conference. I’ve been invited to give a presentation to this gathering of food sustainability and permaculture professionals. On Monday evening, June 23, I’ll be talking about Chicken Keeping for Public Spaces and Institutions.
HenCam Garden Party
Saturday July 12, 2014 1:00pm–4:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapHave you ever gone to a party and wished that the conversation didn’t revolve around children, or politics, or family dramas? Do you wish that everyone talked about chickens? If so, then this event is for you! Join me and other like-minded people for an afternoon at Little Pond Farm. I’ll start the party off with a half-hour talk about incorporating chickens into your garden and landscape. Then, wander the property, scratch the goats, pay homage to The Beast, and sit for a spell, watching the hens while you chat about your own animals. I’ll have a bulletin board for you to post photos of your coop and girls. There will be iced tea and homemade treats (for the humans!).
Rain or shine (I’ll put up a tent, and we can mill about in the screen porch and barns if the weather is inclement). $15 per person. $5 for children under the age of twelve.
If you are buying tickets for both adults and children, click “Add to Cart” for one choice of ticket, then click “Continue Shopping” from the Shopping Cart page to go back and select the other choice of ticket. You can change the quantities on the Shopping Cart page.
To take a virtual tour of Little Pond Farm watch this video:
Dewey Square Public Market
Thursday August 7, 2014 11:30am–1:30pm
Dewey Square Public Market
Boston, MA
Google MapI’ll be in Boston at the Dewey Square Public Market on Thursday, August 7 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. I’ll have a hen with me, and books to sell. I look forward to talking with folks who stop by about good eggs and backyard chicken keeping. Let me know if you’ll be there!
Farm Day at Verrill Farm
Saturday September 6, 2014 1:00pm–2:00pm
Verrill Farm
Concord, MA
Google MapI will be at the Farm Day at Verrill Farm with a couple of chickens, which children will be able to pet. I’ll also have eggs and feathers that can be handled. Come meet the hens and chat about chickens.
The Farm Day runs from 11 am to 3 pm. There will be BBQ and pony rides! I will be there from 1 pm until 2 pm.
Let’s Talk About Food
Saturday September 27, 2014 12:30pm–1:00pm
Let’s Talk About Food should be an interesting event. If you want to know more about food policy, it’s the place to go. I’ll be at the Author’s Book Signing Booth from 12:30 to 1 pm.
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Sunday September 28, 2014 10:00am–12:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system). You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after September 24. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.
Advanced Chicken Keeping Class
Sunday September 28, 2014 2:00pm–4:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour class is for people who already have chickens. I’ll go over all of the major ailments that chickens get, and a few of the more obscure illnesses that I’ve seen. I’ll talk about practical and effective health care, from maintenance to what to do in the case of a sudden health crisis. I’ll talk about the issues that aging hens have, what to do to keep them active and comfortable, and when to euthanize. Internal and external parasites will be covered. I’ll also delve into some of the more problematic chicken behavior, from feather picking to hen-on-hen aggression. This class takes place in my backyard at Little Pond Farm in Carlisle, MA.
Iced tea and cookies provided! $40 per person. Adults and teenagers only (graphic photographs from autopsies will be shown.)
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after September 24. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.
Storytime at Tower Hill
Saturday October 11, 2014 11:30am
Tower Hill Botanical Garden
Boylston, MA
Google MapI’ll be at the glorious Tower Hill Botanic Garden for their Family Fun Harvest Day, to do a storytime – ably assisted by a hen! Come for the program, but plan to spend the day. There are miles of hiking trails, gorgeous gardens, and indoor greenhouses (so come even if the weather is rainy.)
Backyard Chicken Keeping For Gardeners
Friday January 16, 2015 10:00am
Fitchburg Art Museum
Fitchburg, MA
Google MapKeeping chickens in your backyard and having a beautiful lawn and garden are not mutually exclusive! Done right, the flock will not only add fresh eggs to your table, but also can help with bug control and make rich compost. Come to this free lecture at the Fitchburg Art Museum sponsored by the Laurelwood Garden Club of Fitchburg, Massachusetts. I’ll be talking about chicken care and housing, and how to integrate the hens into your home landscape.
Lunenburg Primary School
Friday January 30, 2015 8:00am–5:00pm
The First Graders at the Lunenburg Primary School hatch chicks. As part of that curriculum, I’ll be visiting the classrooms to read Tillie Lays an Egg, and discuss all things chicken and egg. I’ll have a hen with me, of course!
Chick Care
Saturday February 7, 2015 11:00am–12:00pm
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapIf you’re getting chicks this spring, this talk will tell you what you need to know to take good care of them so that the little ones will grow into thriving laying hens. Free and open to the public.
Getting Started with Chickens
Saturday March 7, 2015 11:00am–12:00pm
New England Nurseries
Bedford, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking about Getting Started With Chickens at New England Nurseries. New England Nurseries is a local garden center that I rely on for seeds (what a selection!) and koi food, as well as plants. They’ve invited me to be part of their Saturday morning lecture series. The talk is free and open to the public. There’s a greenhouse, so even if the weather isn’t perfect, do come out.
Raising Chickens Talk
Tuesday March 31, 2015 7:00pm–8:30pm
Dover-Sherborn Community Education
Dover, MA
Google MapWho’s in the Henhouse – Raising Chickens: an introductory slideshow and discussion on what you need to know to get started with your own backyard flock of laying hens. Sign up through Dover Sherborn Community Education.
Talk at Drumlin Farm
Thursday April 2, 2015 7:00pm–8:00pm
Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Google MapI’ll be at the Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary for a program based on my book, The Farmstead Egg Guide and Cookbook. I’ll go over the pros and cons of backyard chicken keeping, and then talk about what makes a good egg, good. There will be samples of good eggs to taste!
Thoreau School Visit
Wednesday April 8, 2015 9:00am–12:00pm
A hen and I will be teaching all of the second graders about chickens, how eggs are made, and the science of chicken poop!
Garden Club Federation Meeting
Wednesday April 15, 2015
Once a year the Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts hosts a speaker’s day so that the clubs can select presenters for their programming. I have a talk, Backyard Chicken Keeping for Gardeners that I’m hoping some clubs will want to host. I think i’ll be the only speaker there with a chicken!
Peter Noyes School
Wednesday May 20, 2015
Each year I look forward to visiting the Peter Noyes School in Sudbury, MA and teaching the kindergartners about eggs and chickens! Of course, I’ll have a friendly hen for them to meet and pet.
Merrimac Public Library
Thursday May 21, 2015 3:00pm–5:00pm
Merrimac Public Libary
Merrimac, MA
Google MapI’ll be doing two programs at the Merrimac Public Library. At 3 pm I’ll do a short talk for adults about chicken keeping and why backyard eggs are so delicious. Books will be available for purchase. At 4 pm I’ll do a Chicken Storytime. I’ll read Tillie Lays an Egg, and the children can meet and pet a friendly hen.
Haynes School Chicken Festival
Tuesday June 9, 2015 8:00am–5:00pm
I’ll be taking part in the Haynes School Chicken festivities. The kindergartners are hatching chicks, and I’ll bring one of my hens so that they can see what a full-grown chicken looks like (as well as reading Tillie Lays an Egg, and talking about how those eggs are made!)
Chicken Keeping Workshop
Saturday June 20, 2015 10:00am–12:00pm
Little Pond Farm
Carlisle, MA
Google MapThis 2-hour workshop in my backyard will cover the basics of what you need to know to have your own small flock of laying hens. You’ll learn everything from feeding, to flock dynamics, to predator protection, to coop design, to what to do with manure (you’ll get to see my composting system). You’ll even get to pick up a chicken!
$40 per person, includes iced tea and homemade cookies.
Limited to 14 participants. Children age 8 and over are welcome to sign up.
The workshop runs rain or shine. Cancellation policy — up to one week before the event you will get a refund of $30. No refunds after June 16. Sign up using the “Pay Now” button.
Horse Behavior Chat
Tuesday June 30, 2015 6:00pm–7:00pm
Complete Equestrian Saddlery
Bedford, MA
Google MapCome for a casual chat on the porch at the Complete Equestrian Saddlery, in Bedford, Massachusetts. I’ll get the discussion going, talking about horse ethology (the study of animal behavior in the natural environment.) There is new and insightful research into horse ethology that can help every owner better care for and train her horse. Find out what scientists are discovering about herd behavior, aggression, dominance, leadership, friendship, and more. Scientists are out in the field (literally!) and what they’re learning is upending many common assumptions. Let’s chat about the research and how it can help us to better understand and communicate with our horses. Cold drinks and cookies will be served. 6 to 7 pm. Free!
Training Horses with Rewards, a Porch Chat
Tuesday July 28, 2015 6:00pm–7:00pm
Complete Equestrian Saddlery
Bedford, MA
Google MapHow do you reward a horse? Have you heard the terms “positive reinforcement,” “clicker training,” “pressure and release,” and “natural horsemanship?” What about “respect,” “dominance,” “compliant” and “cooperative?” They’re not the same! Terry Golson from The Cooperative Horse, will lead the discussion. We’ll delve into the science behind what motivates behavior and makes training sessions successful. Lemonade and cookies on the porch. Free! Stop by anytime between 6 and 7 pm on Tuesday, July 28 at The Complete Equestrian Saddlery in Bedford, MA.
Merrimack Garden Club
Tuesday November 3, 2015 7:00pm–8:00pm
Merrimac Public Libary
Merrimac, MA
Google MapI’ve been invited by the Merrimac Garden Club to discuss how to keep hens and have a beautiful and productive garden. The talk is open to the public and will be held at the Merrimac (Massachusetts) Public Library. It’s election day, so vote first and then come out to the event!
Winter Care for Your Flock
Saturday November 7, 2015 11:00am–12:00pm
Chelmsford Agway
Chelmsford, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking about how to care for your flock in the winter at the Chelmsford, MA Agway on Nov. 7 at 11 am. This seminar is free!
Holden Garden Club
Thursday December 3, 2015 7:00pm–9:00pm
Slide show and talk about integrating chickens into a productive and beautiful landscape.
Chicken Chatting with Kids Cooking Green
Thursday January 7, 2016 4:00pm–5:00pm
Community Nursery School
Lexington, MA
Google MapWant to pet a real hen and hear a good story? Families are invited to a special Chicken Storytime at Community Nursery School in Lexington where kids can pet a real hen! Come spend an hour with author Terry Golson and one of her hens. Terry will read from her book Tillie Lays an Egg, then then talk with kids about all their newly hatched questions about chickens! Each child will receive a signed copy of Tillie Lays an Egg. Cost is $30 for a family of 3, $5 more for an additional guest, and all of the proceeds go to support Kids Cooking Green’s Fund for City Schools, which brings cooking and nutrition classes to communities that otherwise could not afford them. Click here to register.
Find out more about Kids Cooking Green at www.kidscookinggreen.com.
Raising Chickens Talk
Tuesday March 8, 2016 7:00pm–8:30pm
Dover-Sherborn Community Education
Dover, MA
Google MapWho’s in the Henhouse – Raising Chickens: an introductory slideshow and discussion on what you need to know to get started with your own backyard flock of laying hens. Sign up through Dover Sherborn Community Education.
Pepperell Garden Club
Wednesday March 9, 2016 6:45pm–8:00pm
Pepperell Senior Center
Pepperell, MA
Google MapI’ll be talking about how to integrate chickens (and goats!) into a beautiful and productive landscape.
Chickens in the Garden
Saturday April 2, 2016 11:30am–12:30pm
Old Sturbridge Village
Sturbridge, MA
Google MapA lecture at Old Sturbridge Village as part of their Garden Symposium Weekend. Follow the link for more details and how to register!
Backyard Chicken Keeping at Groton Public Library
Tuesday May 3, 2016 7:00pm–8:30pm
Groton Public Library
Groton, MA
Google MapIn this slideshow and lecture, I’ll share everything you need to get started with your own chickens. I’ll cover selecting the right breed for you, housing, feed, and how to keep them healthy. I’ll talk about chicken behavior, predators, and daily chores. And, I’ll show you how I compost the manure and make use of it in my garden.
Free. Sponsored by GPL Endowment Trust. Sign up here.
