Our Little "Farm"

We have 2 dogs, a cat, 30 chickens, 7 beef cows and as of last night, two milk cows. Well, one milk cow, Jasmine, and her new calf, who doesn't have a name yet. He was born last night surrounded by most of the neighborhood. All of us bundled up and watching anxiously. My brother-in-law Brent sat by Jasmine's head and comforted her as she labored. Then when it looked like she might delay delivery one more time (she'd already stood up and down a number of times stopping the baby from actually exiting her body) Brent graciously helped the baby be born by pulling him out. It was incredible to watch. The poor thing. She worked hard and was worn out. 

Last Sunday a friend asked me if I ever thought I'd end up here. Living on a "farm". Wearing rubber boots not because they are stylish, but because I'm sloshing through muck and mire. Using the excuse "sorry I'm late, the cows got out" and actually meaning it. Did I ever think this would be a part of my life? And the answer is no, not really. But honestly does any of us ever do anything we expect? I try and pretend like I don't like it, chickens gross me out and cows are stinky, but the truth is  - its kinda fun. And at the end of the day when I can say that the cows didn't get away because I fixed the fence. Well, I feel kinda proud to know that I can swing a hammer and move a cow. 

Years ago our dog Mocha, who is in doggy heaven, was attacked by some animal. We still don't know what. He was covered in scratches and cuts. He required medication, cleaning of wounds and general compassion and care. Up until he got attacked I constantly complained that I didn't like him. He was dirty and smelly and big. He was just a stupid dog. At the vet though when they told me that he might die I bawled my eyes out. Poor Joey he was so confused. I didn't like that stupid dog, but I was crying like it was my aunt dying. The truth is I did like Mocha. He was dirty and smelly and big, but he was a good dog. 

So, the point of this post, beyond showing you pictures of our new baby cow, is to confess to the world (or the 3 of you who read this) that no matter how much I huff and puff about extra work and dirty animals - I like it here on this "farm" and I am excited (yep, I said it) to see what happens next.

William showing me the secret phone tree where you can call for help to fight the bad guys. Could there be a more perfect place to raise these boys?

And girls too. Isn't she the cutest? I just had to add a picture of "Lardy Cakes". Her cheeks are like squishy marshmallows that your kisses just sink into. You can't help yourself you have to give them a pinch followed closely by a snuggle. I dare you to try not to!