EXPERIENCE
for Molly’s benefit. We planned to get her set up, teach her what to
do and then step back a little as she figured some things out on her
own. We accounted for the time it would take her to learn what was
necessary. We did not account for how much the other five of us
would be drawn in. And drawn in we are.
First of all, these goats are endearing. One of them is adorably
tiny and the other, while not as small, is soft and sweet and has such
kind eyes. Both are quite funny to watch play, and it’s remarkable
how fast they learn. They are truly charming creatures.
Next, we have been rather surprised at what family pets they’ve
become. We knew all four kids would be intrigued at the idea of new
animals on the property, but we assumed the newness would wear
off quickly for all except Molly (who would have to tend to them,
like it or not). On the contrary, we are settling fights over who gets
to feed and water, and who gets to let them out and pin them up.
In the mornings before school, when Molly has to get up earlier
than others in order to feed, our youngest, Brahm, insists he needs to
get up as well to accompany her. We’ve been pleased at how willing
Molly is to get up and perform this duty. She has always been our
hardest to drag out of bed. Now, she bounces out into the dark in
her PJs, her little brother trailing along. Afterward, when the two
are dressed and ready to leave, they beg to spend their extra few
minutes visiting at the goat pen before we head out.
The interest taken by our older two has been yet another surprise.
Eli wants to visit and play with the little goats every chance he gets.
Recently, we found him in the pen next to one while holding the
other, all three fast asleep. If you know anything about Eli, you’d
know how rare is a moment of stillness for him, especially one where
the creatures around him can relax enough to nap.
Sydney’s attachment to the goats may be the biggest shock of all.
While she doesn’t dislike animals, she’s never taken much interest.
In essence, she’s a pet-the-dog-quickly-on-the-way-
into-the-house kinda girl. We certainly did not expect our busy,
self-involved 15-year-old to visit and hold our new farm animals
daily. But she’s doing just that, in addition to worrying about their
welfare and their happiness. She asks about their health daily
and worries about their eating and digestive habits. She is fiercely
protective if we have to separate the pair for brief periods, claiming
it makes her sick to see them sad.
Overall, Molly’s 4H involvement has unexpectedly manifested as
a family affair with very positive results. We are enjoying this new
adventure together as a family. Many evenings we find ourselves
assembled in the little pasture, sharing in the chores and giggling
at the funny antics the goats produce. We’re constantly discussing
goats around the dinner table, and we enjoy hosting friends who
keep stopping by to check them out.
A Better
Approach to
Fitness
While our reasons for adding livestock to our busy lives began as a
simple plan to give one of our crew more purpose, they’ve morphed
a bit along the way. Those reasons now include connecting with
one another – and with our pets – on a level we hadn’t anticipated.
And so far, it’s the GOAT.
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322 Mount Tabor Rd, New Albany
www.4bfit.com | 502.509.3801