We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of new babies this week. Boo, aka Honeysuckle, is showing definite signs of early labor. When a doe is preparing to deliver, she displays telltale signs. First, her tail ligaments begin to loosen. There is a noticeable change in how she holds her tail and in the feeling of the ligaments. The second most obvious sign is that her udder begins to fill with milk. We call this “bagging up.” A doe who is getting ready to deliver will also separate herself from the herd. For example, Boo remains in the barn while the other goats go out to the pasture field. She is not distressed by the separation; she is seeking quiet.
We believe Boo will be the first to deliver. However, Mama Boo and Fauna are also making milk. All three of these girls are well-seasoned mothers who take excellent care of their little ones. Although things can always go wrong, we feel confident the girls will be fine and have easy, healthy deliveries. The most stressful part is waiting for the babies to arrive.
Eric says our farm is the reverse of the Thunder Dome. He is a big fan of that cheesy eighties movie and often quotes lines from it for his own entertainment. Usually, I just roll my eyes and ponder how the man’s mind works. He would be an interesting case study. However, I digress. His favorite quote from the movie is, “Two shall enter! One shall leave!” He did indeed take six little wethered goats to the auction on Wednesday. He says our farm is the opposite of the Thunder Dome because six have left, and six shall enter. Sigh. He makes me tired. We anticipate that the girls will each have twins. However, Mama Boo surprised us a few years ago with quadruplets. I would be happy with singles. As with any birth, I will be happy when all are well and have recovered.
We are appreciative that the weather is warm and dry. Delivering a baby is stressful enough. It’s good that they don’t have to fight the cold as well. If you think of it, please send some good vibes our way for safe, healthy deliveries. Also, please keep an eye on social media. We are like proud parents who can’t wait to share pictures of our new, cute babies. I hope you have a wonderful weekend, dear reader. The temperature is supposed to be in the upper seventies here in Pennsylvania. I hope the weather is cooperating wherever you reside. As always, stay safe, be smart, send out some good vibes for my goatsies, and keep washing your hands.