200 Milkings

We have now milked goats 200 times, 

using up an entire container of filters.

Last week, I went to bed saying, 

"Only 8 1/2 hours until I have to milk again."

Like that "It's time to make the donuts" guy.

 

"Is it worth it?" a friend asked yesterday 

when I had to leave early to go home and milk.

Well...

After thinking about it for 5 minutes, I decided yes.

First, I'm learning a lot.

Especially stuff like consistency which doesn't come easily to me.

Second, the milk is like nothing I've ever eaten.  

Rich, creamy yogurt. 

Tangy chevre cheese with whey leftover for delighted chickens.

Raw cultured buttermilk.

The thought of eating runny yogurt from a plastic tub

and going without whey

and missing all that 9% butterfat...

I get sad just thinking about it.

I can't wait until I have enough milk to try cajeta- 

Mexican goat caramel- 

yummy goat milk dreams.

Third, tending livestock has this Zen quality.

When I have time and am not feeling rushed or stupid,

I find myself sinking into peacefulness.

There is something absolutely delightful about 

watching a goat browse, 

chewing with gusto and this happy grin on her face.

Keeps me grounded.

In honor of 200 milkings,

I offer these jokes made while making cheese.

Anjali: Mom, that is udderpropriate.

Amy:  No whey.

Anjali: Whey!

 

County Fair

Both Anjali and Mark brought projects to the Chisago County Fair July 16-20.

Mark brought a quilt he made at a 4H work day

along with a Brownie is My Friend poster.

He also brought a recipe and photo instructions for Mark's Instant Maple Oatmeal Packs.

He did a demonstration of chicken calls and their meanings which got the audience smiling.
Here he is with the Cloverbud (K-3) judge.

Anjali submitted three fleece tie blankets on the table for judging.

She submitted a hat she loom knitted and two photos.

Her presentation on A Kernel of Truth about Corn Syrup won her a trip to the State Fair in August.

We are very proud.
We are also grateful to Janelle, Anjali's 4H mentor, and Kristen, Mark's mentor along with the many judges and other 4H leaders.  Such a kind and accomplished bunch.