"Live"stock and loss

When we embarked on getting goats for the first time, Tom told me that livestock was a misnomer, and that animals die.
Of course I knew that, but wasn't prepared for how bad it made me feel!!!

We traveled to the mainland in June and when we returned, Thorn didn't look excellent. Turns out he was suffering from bottle jaw-- something that happens in the course of getting worms, becoming anemic and then being really ill. By the time we realized what he had, it was too late :( I wormed him and gave him minerals and gave him lots of love... but he passed one night.

I know that these things happen, but it's hard not to feel really guilty.

In this process I've learned a lot more about caring for the animals-- including how to look for parasites in their poop. It's not the most fun thing in the world (actually pretty comical, running after them with a plastic bag, trying to collect samples), but hopefully it will lead to healthier goats!

R.I.P. Thorn

Mangosteen

Right now we're mostly in maintenance mode here at the farm. During the summer, the grass (and weeds!) grow tons, and so between that and GB's busy movie schedule, we're keeping things under control rather than creating NEW stuff.

But I did plant this mangosteen one afternoon. It's been really dry, so hopefully it makes it well.


And look how strong I am.... broke this shovel!


(GB told me later it was already broken...... sure)