A Week To Enjoy

We have a little break before the next kidding "wave" comes in early April and we are taking full advantage. Resetting the kidding pens, cleaning out transitional areas and watching the little ones. The weather has cooperated giving us warm sunny days with frosty nights. The kids have joined the band/herd and are learning that quick is smart and smart stays close to mom.

The re-introduction of a new family unit can be difficult and stressful; both to doe and kids as well as those of us having to watch. I am often tempted to turn them out and leave for the day so my heart doesn't stop every time someone gets butted, bitten or stomped on while innocently suckling the wrong teat or getting too close to a yet-to-be-mom's space. Eventually, they figure it all out. They learn to spin and run when they hear the grunt or growl and with very few exceptions, everyone finds a way to coexist harmoniously.

As the green grass begins to peek above the dead brown leavings of winter, the older girls start venturing back out into the pasture in search of that sweet tidbit they know must be out there. There is usually one doe that hangs back close to the group of kids lounging in the sun-warmed dirt or playing on the kid condos and ramps. We find ourselves leaning on our rake or pitchfork, taking a moment to enjoy to frolicking; king of the mountain, follow the leader, mock fighting. It is the way they begin to find their place among their peers. Jaguar, a black buck kid has awakened from his nap and wants sister, McLaren, to play. So, he paws at her head until she reluctantly gives up her spot in the sun to chase him around the stump. Lotus and Lexus, the twin red does tag team the much larger J Duesy, a singleton black buck kid, who easily knocks them both off the kid condo. Aston and Martin, the white brother and sister, seem to always be pushed off of everything having not quite found their legs yet. Well, maybe they've found them but still lack a bit of control. After all, they are the youngest. Their time will come soon - then they too can experience being king of the mountain - for a moment anyway!

From the distance, a mom calls and everyone freezes, listens and suddenly go scampering off. It must be good to fill your days sleeping, eating and playing. I think that will be my goal for this coming week. It is Spring Break and playing with kids and fiber is good for the soul!