The title might seem trivial to some, but the Big Skies of Montana have been overrun with clouds, rain and snow this past week. To sit and type this entry with the sun striking down brilliantly is a wonderful thing… now just to finish up so I can get back out there!
The week has been jam packed with excitement. From week old piggies and newborn kids (baby goats… no new children), to the first week of our new Farm Manager taking up his position, ABC acres is ripe with good mojo.
Our Large Black, Berkshire, Duroc cross litter will be a two-weeks old on Monday the 13th. They are showing personalities and size differences as they jockey for the number one spot in the litter. Next week we will define the gender numbers and start making plans for selling, keeping and castrating… hurts just typing that.
Thursday, our Nubian Doe, Pippy, endured a few hours of labor, as she dropped three large bucklings. They are all in good health and suckling on their own. Not to be outdone, Fiona dropped a little girl this morning, as we monitor this development ready to assist if needed. All told, the last week has seen three births, and six new baby goats (4 boys and 2 girls). In the coming week, they will be out in fresh paddocks running and playing… videos forthcoming.
Lastly, and most importantly, we are excited to announce the hiring of Matthew Sargent, our new Farm Manager at ABC acres. Matt hit the ground running Wednesday, while turning his attention to the many livestock happenings, attending to some greenhouse needs, and juggling a few on-the-farm demands as he got his feet wet this first week. He even had some time to take a relaxing walk this morning around the farm while coming upon our resident moose! Matt even got a quick picture to share with everyone! Next week I look forward to developing a clearer understanding of our many systems in place, while looking to Matt’s insight and knowledge on making things run more efficiently and successful in the months to come.
Hope your weekend ahead is filled with fun and laughter, while taking advantage the great outdoors. Don’t be a stranger, and plan to come and stop a while at the farm the next time through Montana.
All the best,
Tim
