Mother Nature at last had mercy on us and the blasting winds stopped on Sunday morning.  What a relief!  The temperature also dropped a bit, into the 80s.  

I decided to move our three little goats from the northwest pasture to the old turkey pen in the southeast corner of the front yard.  Of course, one cannot just move animals without some changes and forethought.  The turkey shelter, while plenty big enough for the little goats, was too close to the fence.  We moved it so that the goats would not be able to jump on the roof and high-tail it over the fence and down the hill.  Steve also added an overhang at the back for additional cover from the sun and rain.  We also moved the feeder.  It is a big strong wooden box so we placed it on the wagon and rolled it onto place.  Then we had to remove the old chicken wire that kept the turkeys in so that the goats can get the hay out of the feeder.  After cleaning up the area and moving water buckets, we were ready to move the goats.

Frankie and Georgie have collars so all we had to do was get a hold on the collar and snap a lead on them.  Billy does not have a collar.  He was given to us by a neighbor and is somewhat skid-dish.  He loves to get cookies out of my hand but he stays just out of reach, not allowing petting or catching.  So, we figured we would have to lasso him and drag him, kicking and bleating, over to the new place.  Steve was walking Frankie and Georgie down to the gate to close it.  Those two walk pretty easily on the leads.  Since goats are herd animals, I thought maybe Billy would follow them instead of having to be dragged.  I went in the barn and got a can full of grain.  I opened the gate and started rattling the can and calling Billy.  Steve walked ahead of me while I called and coaxed Billy, rattling the grain can all the time.  I stopped and let Frankie and Georgie have a taste of the corn which caused Billy to take note.  He wanted his share of that treat too.  He started following!  All the way to the new pen!  Wow!  Sometimes quiet and gentle beats foolery and force.  Lots less sweat too! Ha!


In honor of Memorial Day, thanks to all the veterans and people who serve in the military.  We would not be America today if not for their brave and selfless sacrifice.  And, as a former military spouse, I thank all the spouses too.  Their support and sacrifice makes lives easier for those who serve. Thank you all!


And, Happy 30th Birthday to our son, Sam.  Our love and prayers are always with you!