It was this past Friday morning when I met Lauren to go for a run with our dogs. Pleasant and easy going. Afterwards we would go to Kroger, and grocery shop. To keep this nice morning going, we would turn it into a lunch at a local Mexican food restaurant, where David would meet us and we all enjoy a meal together. Relaxing, catching up from the week, and connecting with each other was on the menu. David had been out of town, and Lauren had a date that past week - both of which we would review. Both Lauren and David had had experiences the past week that were related - whereby acquaintances (Lauren's date and David's Uber driver) had each ask them similar types of questions, with one in particular that stood out: What is your biggest fear? Little did I know how our answers would provide irony for what was to come.
All three of our answers centered around death and dying. We were fearful of losing each other, how we might lose each other, and the nothing seemed more daunting than death of each other. We talked about how some people fear death themselves, when others fear the death of a loved one. My fear, as a mother, went deeper than the thought of death of a daughter, but the method by which one might die. Yes, I've watched too many Forensic Files, and the method of death is what scares me the most. Torture, struggle, and horrific deaths are something I see on TV, and can't wrap my brain around how families are able to move forward in life after something like that happens - esp when it involves one of their children. I'm deeply saddened and although I want to, I can't fathom what that must feel like day to day after such a horrific loss of a child. And I do fear that, and vocalized that, while having this morbid conversation at lunch. Basically, we all feared the same - the loss of one of us.
I tend to take it to the next level, and think about the thoughts of how (if) a loved one might die, what they felt like at that time, and how I wasn't there when they needed me the most. The torture parents must go through when deaths like this happen. Replaying it in your head, the What If's, the inability to have foreseen a series of possible events or even worse, not following you're intuition to have done something to help, and made a different choice instead. Okay, Cyndi, reel it back in girl.
As you would expect, we finished our lunch, and headed back to our respective Saturday plans. The conversations that day at lunch, which were many topics, were all tied up in pretty bows as we hugged and said See You Later!
Sunday morning came, and David and I went out to the barn to feed as we do each day. But on this day, the minute I saw Nona, I could tell she had had a kid goat. Why? Because she was much smaller! I looked around, but did not see a baby goat in the barn or lying in the straw. That's odd. When our sheep had their lambs, they were right beside them. I immediately ran out of the barn to go search the pasture area. I scan the grass, and see it. There's something laying out there. I run quickly to it, and find a baby kid goat wet, cold and lifeless. David is right there with me, and we analyze this baby kid. She's not breathing, she cold, and looks like she was brand new. David grabs her, and we take her inside. He even does CPR on her. But she's already gone. I can't believe it. She has to be alive, as this is some big mistake. Nona is not interested at all in the kid, and I think she's likely licked her somewhat clean, as the sac is not around the little girl. Nona likely realized her little girl was not alive. I'm unable to make any sense of anything at this point. I simply won't accept this baby kid goat is not alive. We should warm her up, we should keep trying, but David says, no, she's dead. But she's perfectly formed. She has a cute nose, markings like Nona, even hooves and everything a little goat has. Eyes closed, and no life in her. I'm still trying to make sense of it.
By now, I'm trying to figure out what happened? Were we not here? Did we miss the "window" of time to help? Did something get her kid? What happened? At this point, David and I both know we will be burying her. The only animal we've lost on the farm yet, were chickens. We had choose not to bury them because predators will dig up buried animals. But I can't not bury this baby kid goat, perfectly formed and so innocent. I don't know how much time passes, and we have an eye on Nona, but she seems unconcerned. So odd. She's not looking for her baby goat, she's out grazing. I just don't get it. Are goats that different from sheep? Because our sheep acted very different - so attentive. It never occurred to me that if this baby kid was stillborn, that maybe a mama goat knows it, and leaves it? I don't know. I just could not grasp that the baby goat was dead. That's not what was to happen. I had never even had that as an option in my head. Never.
David now has a shovel, I remember saying something about getting one. We somehow know we will bury her behind the shed. I get a box, and gently place her inside. Is it too soon? Are we sure she's not alive? Do we wait? I just don't know. David has dug a shallow grave, and I place the box in it. I need to cover it up, and make this terrible tragedy to away. It hurts so bad. I have no idea how much time has passed, I don't know what I'm doing, and I'm not able to think straight. Everything is a blur. I act like things are okay, but they're not. What is happening?
We are still in eyesight of Nona. I could tell it was not long ago that she had the kid goat, probably just before we came out to feed for the morning. The evidence on her back side is all so fresh. This was all happening under our nose. Somehow, now I think I'll walk up to the front pasture real quick and feed the guard dogs there. I do that real quick, it doesn't take long, and as I walk back up the gravel road, I see another kid goat just born, not even minutes ago. She was not there when I walked by minutes earlier. Once again, Nona is nowhere to be found. What is going on?! I quickly run out to get the baby, and upon getting to her, I can tell Nona did clean her face, and not all the body, but some of the body. I picked up the baby, this one a boy, and run inside to wrap him in a towel, and stimulate him to bring him to life. David sees me, and he once again tries to breath life into the goat, and clear an airway for this sweet thing. Nothing. No response, no movement, nothing. What, how can this be? What are we doing wrong? Why can't we help these baby goats? No amount of rubbing with a towel, or trying to clear air into them is working. Once again, no response whatsoever. Not even a flicker of movement. Like these babies were stillborn - no life. But both of them? Is this what happens?
I'm so shocked I cannot make good decisions. All I know is this is nothing like our lambing experience. Is it different with goats? I had researched online about goats having kids, and it all seemed so similar to sheep having lambs. Where did I go wrong?
Sadly, we end up burying this sweet boy in the towel in which we tried to revive him. His body was lifeless - did Nona know this? Hence why she is leaving them? My thoughts are not rational, and they are bouncing all over the place. I immediately think this is all my fault, and I've not done something I should have done. Could I have somehow saved them? I must have missed something? Some time when I wasn't there, or a window of time that was necessary - and I missed it? And it was all happening under our noses, right there. Was I not attentive enough?
It will be much later in the day that I will begin to accept that these twins were stillborn. Something just was not "right". We buried the brother and sister beside each other, behind the shed, and placed heavy stepping stones on top so that no animal will dig them up. I didn't want to do that, but I had to do that. I continue to keep an eye on Nona, and notice she passes the placenta. I'm no baby expert, but that tells me that's the end - and likely no more babies are in her. But I stay outside anyway, to see how she's doing and what she's going to do.
Nona goes about her business of grazing, eating and being with the herd. It's the oddest thing. Does she know she had babies? Does she knows they died? Is that why she's not seemingly concerned? Then it happens, about an hour later. We have been outside, in and out of the barn doing chores, watching Nona, since this whole thing started when we came out to feed. Nona starts calling for her babies. She starts looking for them. Heartbreaking. But it gets worse. She becomes more and more frantic. Her cries become screams. Long screams of pain and loss. The most excruciating sound, and I can hardly bare it. She'll stop, then she'll start again. She's looking everywhere for them. Then, Nona will get distracted, but before long, she's crying for them again - calling out for them to come to her, and listening for their cries so she can find them. She can smell the traces of them. She knows where they were.
Whether her cries are from her heart - or are instinctual - I can feel her pain, cutting through me. Likely, her calls are from her heart and instinct both- as she feels the need for them, the need to feed them, and to nurture them. But that is not meant to be. Sadly, this goes on all day. David and I are outside all day around the farm doing chores, fixing things, moving things, and listening to Nona cry out. It was probably one of the hardest "farm things" I've encountered in quite some time. I never had the notion she may have a stillbirth - and with twins, it just hurt a little more.
So now, all day, I was able to feel (and hear) all the different feelings of loss. I, along with Nona cried off and on - all day. It was too overwhelming for me to hold those baby kid goats, bury them, and listen to Nona cry and call for them all day. Just too much.
The physical and emotional pain that parents must go through, who lose a child, was given to me in only a tiny, small dose today. I did not lose a child, but there's countless people who have. My grief is only a small-scale kind, compared to those who have "real" loss. Yes, loss is loss, but I also know that losing twin goats is not on a comparison scale when it comes to losing a child. I think I've cried all day today partly because I can somehow feel it. That I cry because I know others have - and still are - going through the loss of a child. That feeling is so overwhelming, and my feelings are so fragile, that I cry for them. For those that have experienced that kind of loss. The grieve quietly, while others cannot imagine the pain they feel. OMGoodness. Dear God, I trust that you soothe the souls of those who have had great loss. I thank you for sharing loss with me, so that I can feel the loss that others may feel. If only a tiny understanding, to know what others are dealing with.
The loss of these twin goats turned into much more than that for me. I grieve them, I wish for them, and I feel for Nona. More importantly I feel for parents who have lost their young. It's beyond my understanding how strong they must be to venture on in life.
May God be with them.
Cyndi
Sunday, March 31, 2019
Thursday, March 21, 2019
My Tribe of Feathers and Fur
Life Out Here (as Tractor Supply coins it) is amazing, quiet, fluid, challenging, joyous, surprising and peaceful. The days are rarely the same. Our Tribe of 6 sheep, 4 goats, 2 donkeys, 15 chickens, 4 guard dogs, 8 barn cats (give/take depending on whose "shown up" randomly) and 2 little foo-foo house dogs keeps life interesting. Population = 41. We are growing, and at times, shrinking. Mostly growing. Our new addition of 4 little goats (Nona, Twizzler, Chia and Georgia) has been a wealth of fun, learning - and new noises. Their little baaaa's are sweet and soft. They are actually quieter than the sheep. Granted, they are small goats, and will likely remain small, due to their breed. Although Nona gets a little bigger by the day, as she's growing out on both sides, like little basketballs attached to her sides. I can't wait to find out how many baby kid goats she'll have. Just one is fine.
The grass and forbs are starting to grow, and the donkeys, sheep and goats are eating more in the pasture, and relying less on us to feed them. This makes for a peacefully quiet pasture, as when they are hungry, they say so. Loudly. We are beginning to notice we buy less coastal and alfalfa hay, as well as notice the noise level has decreased at feeding times. As they are all feeding themselves. Wow, that feels good! Spring is bringing us many blessings. The weather is another treat for us all. I can now gather the heated water buckets, and store them away for next winter. The pond is overflowing, with fresh water due to all the rain. The ground is starting to dry, and the green is showing up in full color. I can leave the barn open, and the barn windows are making their way open once again. The winds have calmed, and this is the sweet spot for us all. The chickens are laying more eggs, due to more sunlight, and the sunrise/sunsets are God's gift to us every day.
This is the calm after the storm. Because a particular (high winds) storm hit last week, that shook us all. We knew it was coming, we had been warned. 50 mph winds were predicted, along with thunder, lightening and rain. We had buttoned down everything that evening. The barn was completely shut, the cars in the garage (except one), the chairs on the patio/decks were placed in the garage. The pasture allows whatever wind travels to pick up speed even more so, than it already travels. So, we know what to do. But we could not have prepared for what was to come. Not completely.
I remember laying my head down that evening, on the pillow, hearing the wind, knowing the storm was coming. We've buckled and buttoned things down, and now I wait. I fall asleep, listening to the wind howl all night, with a storm that I couldn't see, but only hear.
Wind vs Shelter (in Front Pasture): Turns out the 50-60 mph wind won. Not even 45 days earlier had we had a shed/shelter built for the guard pups in the front pasture, that literally blew away in the storm. Leaving for work the next morning after the storm, it was still dark. So we could not realize what was to present itself to us, when daylight came. The electricity was off, and it was too dark to see all the damage. No lights, only sheer darkness. With flashlights, David and I tried to assess the damage, but flashlights only tell a portion of the story. The Sun would tell the rest.
Turns out, the wind picked up the shed in the front pasture (up by the pond), and upon hitting the ground, broke apart and begin blowing a hundreds-of-pound shed-pieces all up the pasture, even parts of it reaching the house. A portion that blew up that far, hit the one car (left out from the garage). It looked like a trail of shed. But it didn't actually start there. It started at the street, first with blowing the mailbox off its ledge. Then blew a Purple Martin birdhouse down, breaking the pole in half. That's when the wind headed to the shed, and took it away from the dogs, and away it went. Luckily, the dogs are okay! Along the journey of the shed-pieces moving, tumbling and flying, it took down the fence we had just placed (about a month ago) to divide the front pasture in half. Another fence in the back pasture blew down, bending pieces of metal none of us could ever bend. That wind was no joke. It was serious, and came to take down whatever it could, that was in its path. One of the most interesting things it also blew down, was an electrical pole that runs along our fence line. Hence, no electricity. The very tall and heavy pole came crashing down with it's transformer still attached, wires/lines and all. Straight into our pasture about 40 ft from the barn. Not on the barn, thank goodness. God spared us that, and we are most grateful. But now, there's an electrical pole lying in the rain-drenched grass. The animals need to be moved, so not to possibly hurt any of them, with the lines/wires that might still be live.
David was able to spend a little time before he left for work that fateful morning, shifting animals and settling things that needed settling. Then we would both come home to find it all still the same. The debris spread out over the property, the electrical pole still in the pasture, lying on the ground, and fences in disarray. We were deflated, as all the work we spent fixing and reshaping the areas on the property, were now in disrepair. This is how it feels. To work hard at making things like you'd like, then losing it to Mother Nature. You see it on TV and in the News, and now I got to feel those feelings. It was nothing like what other people have been through - not at all. But simply a taste of it.
Oncor (electric company) did come later that same evening with 8 trucks and all kinds of heavy equipment to secure poles, put in new lines, and dig - to place a new pole where the one had completely fallen. The ground in the pasture was so wet, that their heavy equipment sunk in the ground. Once again, the damage continued, but repair and electricity was the reward. With it came deep pathways where heavy vehicles had to go - into the pasture, and up and down our gravel road to get to it. It was be quite the mess once they left. First, one of the vehicles got stuck in the pasture, then another. Wheels spinning, as they frantically tried to break loose, but only digging a hole with their tires that would not allow them out. A second vehicle did the same, and then a third was brought in to try and pull those two gigantic repair trucks out. It was a train of electrical trucks, attached by heavy cords, with the first, trying to pull the other two out - all tied together. It was madness. I could hear the circus music playing in my head. That part of the pasture is tore up good, but I'm happy to say that they were able to get the vehicles unstuck - and out of the pasture. Good news? Our electricity was restored, as I imagine others electricity was too, once that pole(s), lines, new transformer were set, placed and repaired. That's going to be a bumpy ride on the mower, going over that area, when it comes time to mow there. It's no longer smooth out there.
I remember David and I just standing there after the repairmen (and their trucks) left at dusk, not believing what we had just witnessed. We were safe, the animals were safe, and those things we lost in the storm could be replaced or repaired. It's going to take time to make this all better. But time is what we do have.
We go in the house, and the lights are shining bright. We are so happy. It could have all been so much worse. It was a very full day, that day after the storm hit in the night. The darkness hid it all, but the day ended up bringing us the realization that it's all just things. Material things that we can fix. I know I slept well that next night. It was quiet once again, and I thought about all those Oncor repairmen out late, fixing poles and lines for people like us. Working overtime, away from their families, and fixing things for others.
It's been almost a week now since that unusual wind/rain storm. We've been working on cleaning it all up, as well as provide the guard pups in the front pasture with a new shelter. One that's lower to the ground, even heavier, and hopefully, there to stay. The calm has shown itself again, all the animals are enjoying this fabulous weather, and we move forward. Our Tribe of feathers and fur aren't able to tell us their story. They trust in us, and live their life with us as their Shepherd and Caregivers, allowing us the privilege to do so. We try to make it not just good - but great. That's what I would want, if I were a sheep. Or goat. Or donkey.
Spring is showing itself.......Welcome!
Cyndi
The grass and forbs are starting to grow, and the donkeys, sheep and goats are eating more in the pasture, and relying less on us to feed them. This makes for a peacefully quiet pasture, as when they are hungry, they say so. Loudly. We are beginning to notice we buy less coastal and alfalfa hay, as well as notice the noise level has decreased at feeding times. As they are all feeding themselves. Wow, that feels good! Spring is bringing us many blessings. The weather is another treat for us all. I can now gather the heated water buckets, and store them away for next winter. The pond is overflowing, with fresh water due to all the rain. The ground is starting to dry, and the green is showing up in full color. I can leave the barn open, and the barn windows are making their way open once again. The winds have calmed, and this is the sweet spot for us all. The chickens are laying more eggs, due to more sunlight, and the sunrise/sunsets are God's gift to us every day.
This is the calm after the storm. Because a particular (high winds) storm hit last week, that shook us all. We knew it was coming, we had been warned. 50 mph winds were predicted, along with thunder, lightening and rain. We had buttoned down everything that evening. The barn was completely shut, the cars in the garage (except one), the chairs on the patio/decks were placed in the garage. The pasture allows whatever wind travels to pick up speed even more so, than it already travels. So, we know what to do. But we could not have prepared for what was to come. Not completely.
I remember laying my head down that evening, on the pillow, hearing the wind, knowing the storm was coming. We've buckled and buttoned things down, and now I wait. I fall asleep, listening to the wind howl all night, with a storm that I couldn't see, but only hear.
Wind vs Shelter (in Front Pasture): Turns out the 50-60 mph wind won. Not even 45 days earlier had we had a shed/shelter built for the guard pups in the front pasture, that literally blew away in the storm. Leaving for work the next morning after the storm, it was still dark. So we could not realize what was to present itself to us, when daylight came. The electricity was off, and it was too dark to see all the damage. No lights, only sheer darkness. With flashlights, David and I tried to assess the damage, but flashlights only tell a portion of the story. The Sun would tell the rest.
Turns out, the wind picked up the shed in the front pasture (up by the pond), and upon hitting the ground, broke apart and begin blowing a hundreds-of-pound shed-pieces all up the pasture, even parts of it reaching the house. A portion that blew up that far, hit the one car (left out from the garage). It looked like a trail of shed. But it didn't actually start there. It started at the street, first with blowing the mailbox off its ledge. Then blew a Purple Martin birdhouse down, breaking the pole in half. That's when the wind headed to the shed, and took it away from the dogs, and away it went. Luckily, the dogs are okay! Along the journey of the shed-pieces moving, tumbling and flying, it took down the fence we had just placed (about a month ago) to divide the front pasture in half. Another fence in the back pasture blew down, bending pieces of metal none of us could ever bend. That wind was no joke. It was serious, and came to take down whatever it could, that was in its path. One of the most interesting things it also blew down, was an electrical pole that runs along our fence line. Hence, no electricity. The very tall and heavy pole came crashing down with it's transformer still attached, wires/lines and all. Straight into our pasture about 40 ft from the barn. Not on the barn, thank goodness. God spared us that, and we are most grateful. But now, there's an electrical pole lying in the rain-drenched grass. The animals need to be moved, so not to possibly hurt any of them, with the lines/wires that might still be live.
David was able to spend a little time before he left for work that fateful morning, shifting animals and settling things that needed settling. Then we would both come home to find it all still the same. The debris spread out over the property, the electrical pole still in the pasture, lying on the ground, and fences in disarray. We were deflated, as all the work we spent fixing and reshaping the areas on the property, were now in disrepair. This is how it feels. To work hard at making things like you'd like, then losing it to Mother Nature. You see it on TV and in the News, and now I got to feel those feelings. It was nothing like what other people have been through - not at all. But simply a taste of it.
Oncor (electric company) did come later that same evening with 8 trucks and all kinds of heavy equipment to secure poles, put in new lines, and dig - to place a new pole where the one had completely fallen. The ground in the pasture was so wet, that their heavy equipment sunk in the ground. Once again, the damage continued, but repair and electricity was the reward. With it came deep pathways where heavy vehicles had to go - into the pasture, and up and down our gravel road to get to it. It was be quite the mess once they left. First, one of the vehicles got stuck in the pasture, then another. Wheels spinning, as they frantically tried to break loose, but only digging a hole with their tires that would not allow them out. A second vehicle did the same, and then a third was brought in to try and pull those two gigantic repair trucks out. It was a train of electrical trucks, attached by heavy cords, with the first, trying to pull the other two out - all tied together. It was madness. I could hear the circus music playing in my head. That part of the pasture is tore up good, but I'm happy to say that they were able to get the vehicles unstuck - and out of the pasture. Good news? Our electricity was restored, as I imagine others electricity was too, once that pole(s), lines, new transformer were set, placed and repaired. That's going to be a bumpy ride on the mower, going over that area, when it comes time to mow there. It's no longer smooth out there.
I remember David and I just standing there after the repairmen (and their trucks) left at dusk, not believing what we had just witnessed. We were safe, the animals were safe, and those things we lost in the storm could be replaced or repaired. It's going to take time to make this all better. But time is what we do have.
We go in the house, and the lights are shining bright. We are so happy. It could have all been so much worse. It was a very full day, that day after the storm hit in the night. The darkness hid it all, but the day ended up bringing us the realization that it's all just things. Material things that we can fix. I know I slept well that next night. It was quiet once again, and I thought about all those Oncor repairmen out late, fixing poles and lines for people like us. Working overtime, away from their families, and fixing things for others.
It's been almost a week now since that unusual wind/rain storm. We've been working on cleaning it all up, as well as provide the guard pups in the front pasture with a new shelter. One that's lower to the ground, even heavier, and hopefully, there to stay. The calm has shown itself again, all the animals are enjoying this fabulous weather, and we move forward. Our Tribe of feathers and fur aren't able to tell us their story. They trust in us, and live their life with us as their Shepherd and Caregivers, allowing us the privilege to do so. We try to make it not just good - but great. That's what I would want, if I were a sheep. Or goat. Or donkey.
Spring is showing itself.......Welcome!
Cyndi
Sunday, March 10, 2019
Rightsizing gone wrong
As we continue to love our new goats, Twizzer Pazazz (Mr Personality) and "Nona" (No Name) whose with kid ( I recently was reoriented that a baby goat is a kid), as they have blended with our 6 sheep like butter. Our sheep are a strong flock, whose bond is strong. The sheep tolerate the two goats well, esp after we 1) put them with the sheep, then 2) put them in the front pasture with the guard pups, and now 3) put them back with the sheep because Nona 's udders are filling and we need to have her closer to the house for her kid(s) to arrive. I knew that our sheep might have twins or triplets, but I'm not sure about goats. However many kids she has, I'm prepared for two baby goat names: Peanut and Popcorn (Poppy).
Eve is our (ewe) flock leader who takes care of anyone acting up. She does not tolerate bad behavior. Her twins, Clara and Grace have grown up to be sweet and kind ewes. Grace loves all people, and Clara baa's are loud and long, just like her daddy, Sam's were. And, she looks just like him. It's fun to watch them. Then there's my heart, Belle, who had a mini-her, LuLu. They are two peas in a pod, who are both gentle and loving. Lastly, our new black sheep, Licorice is blending well, although scared of us.
The 6 sheep and 2 goats, along with Whisper and Levi to guard them are thriving, living a sweet life and bring much joy to our days. ** We are still staying strong at 15 chickens, who all rival for beauty contest winners. I'm partial to them all, and think they are amazing. I am a chicken lady, at heart.
So, you ask, what about the guard pups who are in the front pasture? Who will they "practice" guarding, while they continue to hone their skills and listen to their natural instincts? I can tell you that we have gone around the block and back again, in regards to that. Rightsizing the farm, creating new pastures with fences, and populating them with animals is a puzzle. Whose right where? What shelter facilities fits how many animals in that particular pasture? I've never been big on putting puzzles together on the kitchen table, but figuring out who belongs where is a matter of thinking, rethinking and creating order that makes sense and keeps everyone safe and happy.
Safety. Yeah, it sounds easy. But safety is not an accident. Safety has to be intentional here, and is a necessity when animals rely on us. We are the care takers, the janitors, the sheriff(s) and the safety officers.
With that said, we lost control for a moment in time. It all started like this......(cue the dream sequence music):
David and I mutually decided that since Nona was pregnant, and could not stay in the front pasture with the guard pups, that it would be a good idea to go get two MORE new-to-us goats to place up there with Dixie and Davis. (Twiz would stay with Nona). After all, we had customized their shed with a set of stairs up to a table where their hay would be, and since goats like to climb, it was a perfect scenario for everyone to have their own "place" in this shed. Twiz and Nona loved it, while they were there for their short stay. So, since we already have it set up for goats, we thought sure, let's get 2 (more) goats and place them with Dixie and Davis. That way, Nona (and Twiz, her friend) could stay up front near us, until her baby/kid gets big enough to go back. That would be least about 3-4 months.
Good idea, as we smiled and decided that we could do that, and then our master plan would be in place, again. We go and buy our two new-to-us goats, who happen to be the same breed as Twiz, which are the small Nigerian Dwarf goats. David picked out two white girls (with horns, by the way) who happened to be sisters, with only the same dad - as they don't share a mom (side note). Anyway, I got off track. We brought them home in our big crate, with both of the girls in there, awaiting their new home. We named them on the way home, as Lauren was ready with a couple of names this time. Chia, for the bigger girl, and Georgia, for the smaller girl. ** Lauren loves Georgia O'Keeffe, you know, the famous artist - who happened to have a dog named Chia, so hence where the names come from.
Chia and Georgia have never been out of a pen before (neither had Nona, but the way) and we were excited to share a piece of land with them they could graze, run and play. We arrived home with these two white goats (who are recently weaned from their moms, kind of like our lambs). We take the crate out in the pasture, where Dixie and Davis are, to show them their new home and get them settled. Look at this wonderful shed, a big pond you can actually drink out of, and lots of grass and forbs to graze. These dogs will guard the two of you, and you'll be safe.
Dixie and Davis were excited to see them, and wanted to smell them. The guard pups danced around the new goats, and the getting-to-know-you process ensued. (It was very similar to when they meet Nona and Twiz.) The dogs would chase them a bit, and stop, and run around them, and wanting to play and see what they are all about. New friends! Unfortunately, Chia and Georgia were not fans of Dixie and Davis making these chasing moves and extra friendly gestures, as Nona and Twizzler had been. David and I are standing there, thinking this will all calm down, as it did at the guard pups last meeting with new goats. We stood there watching, until we decided that maybe we would go back up to the house, and let them all get to know each other, check things out, and settle in. This was not the dogs first time meeting a goat, and they certainly know sheep, so all is well, right?
I turned around to walk through the gate, and hear David yell, "The goats are swimming!" Do goats swim, I immediately think? They do when dogs have scared them and chased them into the water. David is racing toward the pond (which is overflowing with all the rains, and has never been so full in our time here). I hear him yell, "I'm going in! You go get the other one". I'm running toward the pond, and can see the smaller one struggling to swim, and who is smack in the middle of the pond now. David is running into the pond, like someone running on the beach, and into the ocean. Full force, clothes and shoes on, trying to get to Chia. I've now gotten to the water's edge, and know I'm going in too. Georgia is going to drown, right before my eyes. She gurgles, she's struggling to stay above the water. I head straight in the water, clothes, boots and all, knowing this pond is full of frogs, turtles - and snakes. I hear David yell, " I got her!', as he reaches for Chia, water up past his chest. But David is not close to me, and on the other side of the pond. Then, Georgia sees me coming in the water, and turns to swim toward me, looking for help. It's a little ways to shore, and I don't think she can make it. Every step my foot hits the bottom of the pond, my brain screams, Snake, Snake, Snake, just knowing that one is going to bite me at any time, and then when the water reaches my chest, Georgia has come towards me - and I towards her, and she falls into my arms. I try to keep her above the water, and turn to go towards dry land. The gooey sand/dirt on the bottom of the pond is sucking my heavy boots in on every step. I can tell David has gotten Chia out, and is holding her still, as Chia is in shock from it all. I'm trying to get to shore with Georgia, although my boots are so heavy, my adrenaline is pumping and I can't let something happen to this goat. They almost drowned, right before our eyes. I fall towards the ground, still holding Georgia, as I come out of the water. It's cold, we are covered in green algae, and everyone is alive. I lay there, holding onto her, so that I can get her to safety. It's going to take me a minute to stand up, as my clothes are heavy from the water, and I know I have to hold onto her. She and I both are dazed and confused about what just happened. I get to my feet, and have her tight in my arms. She's scared, and as she should be. Welcome home! Now swim!
As people do in times of panic and frantic situations, I tried to stay as calm as possible because we are all out of the cold pond - and we are safe. My mind races to get Georgia up to the barn, and David and I each in our dripping clothes, water filled shoes and boots, walk up to the barn, closing the gate tightly behind us. We know we can not allow the goats to stay down there with Dixie and Davis. It's too dangerous. I could have never in my life expected that to happen, nor ever thought in my time here on the farm, that I would be going 1) into the pond, and 2) fully dressed, or 3) saving goats who felt forced to swim.
In times of crisis, you do what you need to do. I'm sure the goats were scared out of their minds. I underestimated what could happen. I could have never dreamed of that scenario. Even now, it seems like it was a dream. A bad dream. I feel horrible that those goats had to go through that.
As we got Chia and Georgia into the barn, they were stunned. Algae on their little noses, still. They shake off, like dogs do, with pond water flying off of them. They huddle in the corner to warm up, and just stand there, unsure what to do next. David and I stayed with them until we felt like they were safe and sound. Whisper and Levi are so good to them, unlike the Dixie and Davis meeting. We knew they would be okay in the barn. And they were. They were now safe.
David and I looked at each other, and realized we were dripping, wet and cold. That took awhile to really sink in and hit, as we were just trying to solve the situation, which is now referred to as The Pond Incident. After we felt comfortable with the new goats situation, we finally went in the laundry room (via side door of house) and put the nasty clothes directly into the washer. (I was convinced I'd need to wash it all twice).
After a hot shower, David and I were able to comprehend what had happened. Back out to the barn to check on the goats. They were doing surprisingly well. Later that night before bed, we looked at each other and wondered how something like that could happen. We shared an awkward laugh, a crooked smile and hugged each other, happy that we all made it out of the pond......safely.
I'm happy to report that Day 2 for the little girls was much better, and actually enjoyable for them. It was the first day they would graze a pasture, have access to a barn, and make new friends. We are so grateful. The sheep readily accepted them, and Day 2 was spent as a flock of 6 sheep, and now 4 goats.......none of which are in the front pasture with Dixie and Davis.
Sometimes, things are not meant to be. I have 4 new goats, all of whom are here, and not for their intended purpose. This is my example of how God works. It's not my plan, it's His plan. I can't force it, override it or try to fight it. His Will be done. Okay, God, no goats up front. It took twice to hear that message loud and clear. But I got it now.
We are all safe tonight, warm and in our proper places. And I can't express my gratitude enough. Thank you, for getting us all out of the water. All of us. And with no snake bites.
Tomorrow is a new day, and once again, I have learned that just about anything can happen out here.
Cyndi
Eve is our (ewe) flock leader who takes care of anyone acting up. She does not tolerate bad behavior. Her twins, Clara and Grace have grown up to be sweet and kind ewes. Grace loves all people, and Clara baa's are loud and long, just like her daddy, Sam's were. And, she looks just like him. It's fun to watch them. Then there's my heart, Belle, who had a mini-her, LuLu. They are two peas in a pod, who are both gentle and loving. Lastly, our new black sheep, Licorice is blending well, although scared of us.
The 6 sheep and 2 goats, along with Whisper and Levi to guard them are thriving, living a sweet life and bring much joy to our days. ** We are still staying strong at 15 chickens, who all rival for beauty contest winners. I'm partial to them all, and think they are amazing. I am a chicken lady, at heart.
So, you ask, what about the guard pups who are in the front pasture? Who will they "practice" guarding, while they continue to hone their skills and listen to their natural instincts? I can tell you that we have gone around the block and back again, in regards to that. Rightsizing the farm, creating new pastures with fences, and populating them with animals is a puzzle. Whose right where? What shelter facilities fits how many animals in that particular pasture? I've never been big on putting puzzles together on the kitchen table, but figuring out who belongs where is a matter of thinking, rethinking and creating order that makes sense and keeps everyone safe and happy.
Safety. Yeah, it sounds easy. But safety is not an accident. Safety has to be intentional here, and is a necessity when animals rely on us. We are the care takers, the janitors, the sheriff(s) and the safety officers.
With that said, we lost control for a moment in time. It all started like this......(cue the dream sequence music):
David and I mutually decided that since Nona was pregnant, and could not stay in the front pasture with the guard pups, that it would be a good idea to go get two MORE new-to-us goats to place up there with Dixie and Davis. (Twiz would stay with Nona). After all, we had customized their shed with a set of stairs up to a table where their hay would be, and since goats like to climb, it was a perfect scenario for everyone to have their own "place" in this shed. Twiz and Nona loved it, while they were there for their short stay. So, since we already have it set up for goats, we thought sure, let's get 2 (more) goats and place them with Dixie and Davis. That way, Nona (and Twiz, her friend) could stay up front near us, until her baby/kid gets big enough to go back. That would be least about 3-4 months.
Good idea, as we smiled and decided that we could do that, and then our master plan would be in place, again. We go and buy our two new-to-us goats, who happen to be the same breed as Twiz, which are the small Nigerian Dwarf goats. David picked out two white girls (with horns, by the way) who happened to be sisters, with only the same dad - as they don't share a mom (side note). Anyway, I got off track. We brought them home in our big crate, with both of the girls in there, awaiting their new home. We named them on the way home, as Lauren was ready with a couple of names this time. Chia, for the bigger girl, and Georgia, for the smaller girl. ** Lauren loves Georgia O'Keeffe, you know, the famous artist - who happened to have a dog named Chia, so hence where the names come from.
Chia and Georgia have never been out of a pen before (neither had Nona, but the way) and we were excited to share a piece of land with them they could graze, run and play. We arrived home with these two white goats (who are recently weaned from their moms, kind of like our lambs). We take the crate out in the pasture, where Dixie and Davis are, to show them their new home and get them settled. Look at this wonderful shed, a big pond you can actually drink out of, and lots of grass and forbs to graze. These dogs will guard the two of you, and you'll be safe.
Dixie and Davis were excited to see them, and wanted to smell them. The guard pups danced around the new goats, and the getting-to-know-you process ensued. (It was very similar to when they meet Nona and Twiz.) The dogs would chase them a bit, and stop, and run around them, and wanting to play and see what they are all about. New friends! Unfortunately, Chia and Georgia were not fans of Dixie and Davis making these chasing moves and extra friendly gestures, as Nona and Twizzler had been. David and I are standing there, thinking this will all calm down, as it did at the guard pups last meeting with new goats. We stood there watching, until we decided that maybe we would go back up to the house, and let them all get to know each other, check things out, and settle in. This was not the dogs first time meeting a goat, and they certainly know sheep, so all is well, right?
I turned around to walk through the gate, and hear David yell, "The goats are swimming!" Do goats swim, I immediately think? They do when dogs have scared them and chased them into the water. David is racing toward the pond (which is overflowing with all the rains, and has never been so full in our time here). I hear him yell, "I'm going in! You go get the other one". I'm running toward the pond, and can see the smaller one struggling to swim, and who is smack in the middle of the pond now. David is running into the pond, like someone running on the beach, and into the ocean. Full force, clothes and shoes on, trying to get to Chia. I've now gotten to the water's edge, and know I'm going in too. Georgia is going to drown, right before my eyes. She gurgles, she's struggling to stay above the water. I head straight in the water, clothes, boots and all, knowing this pond is full of frogs, turtles - and snakes. I hear David yell, " I got her!', as he reaches for Chia, water up past his chest. But David is not close to me, and on the other side of the pond. Then, Georgia sees me coming in the water, and turns to swim toward me, looking for help. It's a little ways to shore, and I don't think she can make it. Every step my foot hits the bottom of the pond, my brain screams, Snake, Snake, Snake, just knowing that one is going to bite me at any time, and then when the water reaches my chest, Georgia has come towards me - and I towards her, and she falls into my arms. I try to keep her above the water, and turn to go towards dry land. The gooey sand/dirt on the bottom of the pond is sucking my heavy boots in on every step. I can tell David has gotten Chia out, and is holding her still, as Chia is in shock from it all. I'm trying to get to shore with Georgia, although my boots are so heavy, my adrenaline is pumping and I can't let something happen to this goat. They almost drowned, right before our eyes. I fall towards the ground, still holding Georgia, as I come out of the water. It's cold, we are covered in green algae, and everyone is alive. I lay there, holding onto her, so that I can get her to safety. It's going to take me a minute to stand up, as my clothes are heavy from the water, and I know I have to hold onto her. She and I both are dazed and confused about what just happened. I get to my feet, and have her tight in my arms. She's scared, and as she should be. Welcome home! Now swim!
As people do in times of panic and frantic situations, I tried to stay as calm as possible because we are all out of the cold pond - and we are safe. My mind races to get Georgia up to the barn, and David and I each in our dripping clothes, water filled shoes and boots, walk up to the barn, closing the gate tightly behind us. We know we can not allow the goats to stay down there with Dixie and Davis. It's too dangerous. I could have never in my life expected that to happen, nor ever thought in my time here on the farm, that I would be going 1) into the pond, and 2) fully dressed, or 3) saving goats who felt forced to swim.
In times of crisis, you do what you need to do. I'm sure the goats were scared out of their minds. I underestimated what could happen. I could have never dreamed of that scenario. Even now, it seems like it was a dream. A bad dream. I feel horrible that those goats had to go through that.
As we got Chia and Georgia into the barn, they were stunned. Algae on their little noses, still. They shake off, like dogs do, with pond water flying off of them. They huddle in the corner to warm up, and just stand there, unsure what to do next. David and I stayed with them until we felt like they were safe and sound. Whisper and Levi are so good to them, unlike the Dixie and Davis meeting. We knew they would be okay in the barn. And they were. They were now safe.
David and I looked at each other, and realized we were dripping, wet and cold. That took awhile to really sink in and hit, as we were just trying to solve the situation, which is now referred to as The Pond Incident. After we felt comfortable with the new goats situation, we finally went in the laundry room (via side door of house) and put the nasty clothes directly into the washer. (I was convinced I'd need to wash it all twice).
After a hot shower, David and I were able to comprehend what had happened. Back out to the barn to check on the goats. They were doing surprisingly well. Later that night before bed, we looked at each other and wondered how something like that could happen. We shared an awkward laugh, a crooked smile and hugged each other, happy that we all made it out of the pond......safely.
I'm happy to report that Day 2 for the little girls was much better, and actually enjoyable for them. It was the first day they would graze a pasture, have access to a barn, and make new friends. We are so grateful. The sheep readily accepted them, and Day 2 was spent as a flock of 6 sheep, and now 4 goats.......none of which are in the front pasture with Dixie and Davis.
Sometimes, things are not meant to be. I have 4 new goats, all of whom are here, and not for their intended purpose. This is my example of how God works. It's not my plan, it's His plan. I can't force it, override it or try to fight it. His Will be done. Okay, God, no goats up front. It took twice to hear that message loud and clear. But I got it now.
We are all safe tonight, warm and in our proper places. And I can't express my gratitude enough. Thank you, for getting us all out of the water. All of us. And with no snake bites.
Tomorrow is a new day, and once again, I have learned that just about anything can happen out here.
Cyndi
Wednesday, March 6, 2019
Coming up on 3 years in Gunter
As we begin to approach the 3 year mark for making our way to Gunter, I look back at how far we've come. We moved to Gunter with 2 chickens. The acreage we bought came with three donkeys and 2 Great Pyrenees guard dogs. Since then, our chicken population has ebbed and flowed, but stands strong at 15. We added sheep, and now goats. We have a great barn cat population, with a couple of cats that are strays who have taken up residence with us. They are all "fixed", so no kitties are in the future, but we don't always know that about the visiting stray cats.
I think the most interesting aspect of it all, is the pasture management and how we can use the land, in the most appropriate way possible while still providing shelter to the animals. One of our favorite pastimes is fence movement. We have an abundance of temporary fencing, that we hate to move - and love to move. Mostly love to move, because of the outcome, but sometimes David and I almost "come to blows" while moving this temporary fencing. Why? Well, it can be done several ways, and the way my brain works to move it - is different than his. We always work-it-out, and it winds up a success. I like to say we have an addiction to the movement of temporary fencing. The ebbing and flowing of the animals keeps our brains ticking away at how best to keep everyone contained - and happy. Happiness of the animals is important to us, and you can tell if they are happy. The sheep frolic, the donkeys play and chase each other, and the guard dogs are relaxed and able to unwind on their own terms.
Our two recent purchase of goats: Nona, (for No Name because the dynamic duo of Ryan and Lauren must not have been able to concur on a goat name) and Twizzler (came to us with that name, and it suits him well) are doing great. I'm going to give Twizzler a middle name: Pazazz. He has SO much flair. He's interested in everything, is bossy without being bossy, and full of life. He and Nona make me wonder why I didn't get goats earlier. (Brooke suggested it awhile back, maybe she knew how cool goats really are). Nona's sides are starting to stick out, like little basketballs attached to her. She's either pregnant.....or enjoying the food too much around here. Nona and Twiz have made our first goat purchase a positive one. You know, you've heard of goats eating everything, causing destruction in their environment, and generally being unruly. But, it's just not always true, as people have preconceived notions about many farm animals. Chickens are mean, sheep are stupid, and donkeys are hard to handle. I think it's about finding the proper animals for your own environment. Our chickens are friendly, our donkeys are kind, and our sheep are docile and sweet. I think it's all about picking out which ones serve you, and we picked out two of the sweetest goats. They maa so gently, and they are happy to be here with us. And yes, it appears Nona is pregnant, as they had warned us just hours before delivering her to our farm. We have no idea of a due date, but are guessing in a month? The only thing I know for sure about having kid goats is NOTHING. Wait, except we picked out names: Poppy (popcorn) and Peanut (gender neutral), assuming she has twins. I've started on my usual YouTube education process for birthing kid goats, and found it similar to lambing. That's a plus. But you know what? Since we can't be sure of when Nona is due, we had to move the goats from the front pasture, back to the middle pasture because we don't trust the guard pups enough to know what what they might do with a baby goat. While becoming great guard dogs, Dixie and Davis are only 8 month old guardians, and puppies + kid baby goats could = disaster. So after we spent all that time prepping for them to guard the goats, we had to put the goats back with the sheep, at least until Nona gives birth, and the kid goat(s) can tolerate life well.
So, here we go again. Movement. To review from the last blog, we did indeed have the front pasture divided with a fence, and placed Dixie and Davis up front by the pond to guard that portion of the property.....and the goats. They are doing a fabulous job! Not knowing we were getting a pregnant goat changed things though. The two sweet goats are now staying with the sheep, and everyone is happy about that. But the plan has not been executed as we originally thought. So the question is, what can were provide for Dixie and Davis "to guard" now?! They should not be alone only, and need to use their instincts to guard "something". More goats then? I mean, I really am at a loss on this one. I'll wait for the answer to come to me. In the mean time, Davis is being neutered on Friday. Dixie was spayed a couple of weeks ago. Why wait so long, you ask? The Vet recommended the spaying/neutering of guard dogs until later (rather than earlier on as a pup) as it lets their systems fully develop, and the testosterone set in for the males. Dixie did well, except she had to wear the cone of shame for a full 7 days, because she would not leave her incision alone. We'll see how Davis does. I saved that cone, in case Davis needs it.
We have grown in many ways, in 3 years. Lots of animals, fence moving, house renovations, new roofs, added another barn and a couple of sheds, and the list goes on. It's not all physical changes and material things, as there's an abundance of emotional changes made as well. It has tested my mental strength, increased my problem solving skills, and certainly broadened my horizons and upped my education levels in regards to things I never knew would exist in my world. Bloat, sheep vaccinations, birthing of farm animals, death and dying of sick farm animals, winter preparations, shearing sheep, animal surgery and vet bills. The Vet loves us. I now what it feels like to know a Vet and Vet office so well, that it's almost embarrassing. I need them, and appreciate having that assistance on an ongoing basis, more than they will ever know.
This world we've created is one that has been done many times before us, and will continue to happen. Regular people wanting a different life, and choosing to make changes in their life (while all the people around then wonder, What is going on!?). While some people move to the mountains, the beach, the big city, or another country.....we moved to a slice of land to do as we wish. This freedom constantly amazes me. And I am most certainly grateful.
So as I move through this life cycle, this season of life, before it gets harder to get around with older joints, muscle and bones, I soak it all in. I've never in my life wanted to be home as much as I want to be home now. Everything I need is here. Our experiment of moving to Celina to check out country life was a success, and then we purchased here in Gunter. Going out to feed in the morning and night is not a chore, but a treat. The highlight of my day, to say Hello to everyone.
An interesting phenomenon has occurred with this new addition of 2 goats and 1 sheep to our existing flock. More is easier than less. With a flock of 6 sheep and 2 goats together now, they move more in a pack. With only a few sheep, it was like we were their leaders, and they were very dependent on us. But now, with a larger herd, they quietly graze and enjoy each other, as they have become a tight knit family, who migrate together over the pasture. We know each of their personalities well, and adore them all, for who they are. It's hard to imagine you can know so many, so well. But with the larger flock, they rely on each other, and have a "order" and way they interact together. This is not only relaxing and enjoyable to watch occur, but a lesson of more can be easier. Odd, how that is.
So much learning, so much love, and so much has happened in 3 years. With warmer weather coming, grass growing, and chairs waiting for me on the porch, we are all going to be right here. Quietly doing our thing, and living this life God has given us. Still not completely sure how I got here, but sure glad I did.
My donkeys are asking for that fresh green grass to grow......come on Spring,
Cyndi
I think the most interesting aspect of it all, is the pasture management and how we can use the land, in the most appropriate way possible while still providing shelter to the animals. One of our favorite pastimes is fence movement. We have an abundance of temporary fencing, that we hate to move - and love to move. Mostly love to move, because of the outcome, but sometimes David and I almost "come to blows" while moving this temporary fencing. Why? Well, it can be done several ways, and the way my brain works to move it - is different than his. We always work-it-out, and it winds up a success. I like to say we have an addiction to the movement of temporary fencing. The ebbing and flowing of the animals keeps our brains ticking away at how best to keep everyone contained - and happy. Happiness of the animals is important to us, and you can tell if they are happy. The sheep frolic, the donkeys play and chase each other, and the guard dogs are relaxed and able to unwind on their own terms.
Our two recent purchase of goats: Nona, (for No Name because the dynamic duo of Ryan and Lauren must not have been able to concur on a goat name) and Twizzler (came to us with that name, and it suits him well) are doing great. I'm going to give Twizzler a middle name: Pazazz. He has SO much flair. He's interested in everything, is bossy without being bossy, and full of life. He and Nona make me wonder why I didn't get goats earlier. (Brooke suggested it awhile back, maybe she knew how cool goats really are). Nona's sides are starting to stick out, like little basketballs attached to her. She's either pregnant.....or enjoying the food too much around here. Nona and Twiz have made our first goat purchase a positive one. You know, you've heard of goats eating everything, causing destruction in their environment, and generally being unruly. But, it's just not always true, as people have preconceived notions about many farm animals. Chickens are mean, sheep are stupid, and donkeys are hard to handle. I think it's about finding the proper animals for your own environment. Our chickens are friendly, our donkeys are kind, and our sheep are docile and sweet. I think it's all about picking out which ones serve you, and we picked out two of the sweetest goats. They maa so gently, and they are happy to be here with us. And yes, it appears Nona is pregnant, as they had warned us just hours before delivering her to our farm. We have no idea of a due date, but are guessing in a month? The only thing I know for sure about having kid goats is NOTHING. Wait, except we picked out names: Poppy (popcorn) and Peanut (gender neutral), assuming she has twins. I've started on my usual YouTube education process for birthing kid goats, and found it similar to lambing. That's a plus. But you know what? Since we can't be sure of when Nona is due, we had to move the goats from the front pasture, back to the middle pasture because we don't trust the guard pups enough to know what what they might do with a baby goat. While becoming great guard dogs, Dixie and Davis are only 8 month old guardians, and puppies + kid baby goats could = disaster. So after we spent all that time prepping for them to guard the goats, we had to put the goats back with the sheep, at least until Nona gives birth, and the kid goat(s) can tolerate life well.
So, here we go again. Movement. To review from the last blog, we did indeed have the front pasture divided with a fence, and placed Dixie and Davis up front by the pond to guard that portion of the property.....and the goats. They are doing a fabulous job! Not knowing we were getting a pregnant goat changed things though. The two sweet goats are now staying with the sheep, and everyone is happy about that. But the plan has not been executed as we originally thought. So the question is, what can were provide for Dixie and Davis "to guard" now?! They should not be alone only, and need to use their instincts to guard "something". More goats then? I mean, I really am at a loss on this one. I'll wait for the answer to come to me. In the mean time, Davis is being neutered on Friday. Dixie was spayed a couple of weeks ago. Why wait so long, you ask? The Vet recommended the spaying/neutering of guard dogs until later (rather than earlier on as a pup) as it lets their systems fully develop, and the testosterone set in for the males. Dixie did well, except she had to wear the cone of shame for a full 7 days, because she would not leave her incision alone. We'll see how Davis does. I saved that cone, in case Davis needs it.
We have grown in many ways, in 3 years. Lots of animals, fence moving, house renovations, new roofs, added another barn and a couple of sheds, and the list goes on. It's not all physical changes and material things, as there's an abundance of emotional changes made as well. It has tested my mental strength, increased my problem solving skills, and certainly broadened my horizons and upped my education levels in regards to things I never knew would exist in my world. Bloat, sheep vaccinations, birthing of farm animals, death and dying of sick farm animals, winter preparations, shearing sheep, animal surgery and vet bills. The Vet loves us. I now what it feels like to know a Vet and Vet office so well, that it's almost embarrassing. I need them, and appreciate having that assistance on an ongoing basis, more than they will ever know.
This world we've created is one that has been done many times before us, and will continue to happen. Regular people wanting a different life, and choosing to make changes in their life (while all the people around then wonder, What is going on!?). While some people move to the mountains, the beach, the big city, or another country.....we moved to a slice of land to do as we wish. This freedom constantly amazes me. And I am most certainly grateful.
So as I move through this life cycle, this season of life, before it gets harder to get around with older joints, muscle and bones, I soak it all in. I've never in my life wanted to be home as much as I want to be home now. Everything I need is here. Our experiment of moving to Celina to check out country life was a success, and then we purchased here in Gunter. Going out to feed in the morning and night is not a chore, but a treat. The highlight of my day, to say Hello to everyone.
An interesting phenomenon has occurred with this new addition of 2 goats and 1 sheep to our existing flock. More is easier than less. With a flock of 6 sheep and 2 goats together now, they move more in a pack. With only a few sheep, it was like we were their leaders, and they were very dependent on us. But now, with a larger herd, they quietly graze and enjoy each other, as they have become a tight knit family, who migrate together over the pasture. We know each of their personalities well, and adore them all, for who they are. It's hard to imagine you can know so many, so well. But with the larger flock, they rely on each other, and have a "order" and way they interact together. This is not only relaxing and enjoyable to watch occur, but a lesson of more can be easier. Odd, how that is.
So much learning, so much love, and so much has happened in 3 years. With warmer weather coming, grass growing, and chairs waiting for me on the porch, we are all going to be right here. Quietly doing our thing, and living this life God has given us. Still not completely sure how I got here, but sure glad I did.
My donkeys are asking for that fresh green grass to grow......come on Spring,
Cyndi
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