It's already the middle of July and I can't say where the time has gone. We've spent a whole lot less time working on the property this summer than last. We did get some fencing up and plan to have most of the front side of our lot completed by august. It took a very hard lesson to make us decide it needed to be the priority this summer. The greatest dog ever to live, Ashes, was hit by a car right in front of our driveway. She had many good years left and our hearts are broken. Now that my throat is all in knots and my eyes full of tears I need to move on to happier times.
We did get another baby goat. We waited anxiously for one of the other goats in Grandma Janna's herd to have their babies and after almost 3 weeks none had arrived. Bella, who was too small to be left outside by herself was in the house and the mud room. I have heard the tone of voice in friends and families voices (and looks on their faces) when told about our "inside" goat, so I know most think I'm some crazy lady. Well I'm blessed among women because the only ones I'd worry about is my mother-in-laws and they are both animal lovers like me. I've been a wonder to my own mom when it comes to animals but I think she's just as soft hearted when it comes down to it! (well noway she'd have a goat in the house). It was getting to the point where we knew our inside goat must be an outside goat. I had made up my mind I wasn't going to take away a baby from it's mother right at birth(much to Jer's approval) and wait till it could be weaned. I think the goats knew our plan and were holding out cause as soon as the decision was made they popped them out, 3 little does. One was a set of twins and the other a single. The set of twins came first and one of the twins was extremely tiny and we think must have had some problems in the womb with nutrition. She was skin on bones and her muscles weren't quite working. Of course Ana and I immediately took a liking to her but we weren't sure if she'd make it. Grandma thought she might need to be put down but we'd let nature takes it course. Ana prayed for the baby goat several times. After a very rough first 3 days especially for Grandma Janna who stayed up with her all night trying to keep her warm which seemed to be her biggest problem as her muscles were strengthening and the baby goat's own mom (we think) laid on her almost killing her, I brought her home. We weren't sure if she would be normal or even live. Ana claimed her right away and named her Lyla and thanked the Lord for her. I can't tell you how good it feels to see my daughter delighted in a miracle that she had all the faith in the world for. God is good. Little Lyla was 3 lbs when we brought her home at 3 days old. She is now almost 5 weeks old and the liveliest little kid. Even Jer is very happy about her. The goat pen was started and completed within a week.
Chelsea, Jer's sister got married the end of June. All our kids were in the wedding. Yes, all four, 2 children and 2 doe lings. Oh too see some of your faces would be priceless! It was a surprise for Chelsea. I've heard that many people thought it was adorable. We had some good friends, Kyle and Delyssa, come and stay the weekend with us. We were so excited to see them since its been 5 years. They have 4 kids, 2 boys, Jorryn was thrilled, and 2 girls, the kids had a blast playing together.
Jer has been very busy with work. God has kept the calendar full and we are very thankful. He's still managed to work on the tractor and mow the fields partially once.
More to come...including pictures.
