Despite all the shattered records for snow and cold this winter, life on the farm doesn’t miss a beat.
In addition to caring for the goats and sheep and pigs, the cycle of life is not deterred by whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at local livestock farmers. They just bundle up and march on, because the animals depend on them.
So far, 2014 has been a banner year for me when it comes to witnessing livestock firsts.
Last month, I was on hand to meet (and cuddle) the newest additions to the O’Day family goat herd. I had no idea how sweet and friendly baby goats can be. And, I’ll be following their owners — Cameron, 13, Kara, 11, and Megan O’Day, 9, as they prepare their goats for this year’s Chelsea Community Fair. By the way, Megan has graciously agreed to teach this old goat, the finer points of showing one, as I prepare for my debut in this year’s novice goat class. So, be sure to be on hand for my performance.
If you remember, I had the honor of showing a sheep in the novice class two years ago and last year, I tried showing a pig. (Who says reporters don’t get perks?) At the end of fair last year, I approached the O’Days and asked if they would be my mentors for goat showing in 2014. As part of my goat education, they invited me to their place to meet the newest additions.
And, since I’ve always wanted to see Earl Heller’s Electra Farm lambing operation, I asked if I could stop by this year and he was kind enough to agree. In fact, I was able to see the miracle of birth as a lamb was born while I watched. Plus, he allowed me to quietly mingle with some of the about 100 lambs that were born at the farm this winter. I wonder if I’ll be able to pick out any of them when they are full grown and shown by youth exhibitors at fair this year?
I’ve also always wanted to meet piglets, too. And, Joel Powers granted my wish as well. And let me tell you, I had no idea how adorable piglets are. You’ll see a story about them, too, in upcoming weeks.
In the meantime, included as part of this column is a photographic sneak peak of how I spent the end of my winter — visiting three different farms. I know a lot of people were complaining about the weather this winter, but I was not one of them. I was busy visiting baby farm animals.
And, since I haven’t done this for a while, and readers are reminding me to be more diligent about it, I’m once again asking for the community’s support of Chelsea Update.
If you are enjoying my coverage of the community, please consider making a donation in any amount to my efforts. Chelsea Update is my full-time job and I really count of the community’s support in addition to advertising to help me continue providing readers with all the news that’s fit to post about Chelsea.
Checks should be made out to Chelsea Update and sent to 18829 Bush Road, Chelsea, MI 48118. You can also make a donation via Paypal. And, thank you in advance.
