Howard Homestead

Everyone, meet Jasper. He was a surprise that I didn't see coming last night. His mama is Ruby. I knew she was pregnant, but I didnt think she was due for at least another week. Apparently Bo got to her earlier than I thought.

Jasper was born around 9:30 pm April 16. He gave his mama and me a little bit of trouble by deciding to come out back legs first. With a little help from me pulling while she pushed, Ruby finally got him out. He had a little trouble breathing at first, maybe because the umbilical cord broke while his head was still inside. But we got him going. He also wasn't getting the hang of eating at first, but I think he figured it out.

This was the second goat birth I've witnessed, and it was rough. She wouldn't go into the barn. It was dark outside. All I had was a flashlight, and it's really hard to pull a baby out and hold the light at the same time. But we managed. I wasn't able to get much on video due to challenges, but I'm excited for the happy surprise and the good outcome.

I went with the name Jasper to go along with the gemstone theme. I felt it was appropriate, especially since we lost Diamond so unexpectedly last month.

Jasper is definitely a cutie!

Well THAT was a lesson in humility...

I Can't Do This! Thanks for checking out our little corner of the world! We are Heather and Daryl, living our dream and trying to figure out this farming thing, in beautiful ...