Farm updates

Things are going well here! I haven't really had time to sit down at a computer but now that we've unpacked the laptop I can write while Kaylee plays or watches TV.

I started trying to wean Arwen off Saffron, but I neglected to take into account the weather. It got interrupted by a few days of severe thunderstorms. There's no shelter other than a tree in the pasture I'd be keeping Gwyn and Arwen and I really don't want them out in an open field during a storm. (When thunder roars, go indoors!)  It's a hold over from working at a hunter jumper barn in Florida where horses plain did NOT go out if it was storming. When Gwyn was on 24/7 turn out in Florida she at least had shelter she could choose to use.  I give them the choice as well, but usually entice with a few flakes of hay and early dinner so they stay in the barn but can leave if they choose. Given how miserable the donkeys look any time it pours, they stuck inside.

My big concern at the moment is that I need a buddy for Saffron if I'm buddying Arwen and Gwyn. Unfortunately, township rules state that I am limited to 3 equines on the property. Eric has tentatively said an alpaca or goat would be okay. I do have a friend who wants alpaca wool so the animal would at least have a purpose, but I'm not sure if I'm that ready to commit to such an animal, especially since we'll have a ranch addition in April next year that will be sure to occupy a lot of my time!

And honestly, I'm not even sure if weaning will work. Arwen does try and nurse, but Saffron doesn't really give her a firm "NO" signal. I've also seen Saffron trying to mount Arwen and I just have no idea what that means.

Arwen is getting better at leading and I'm able to lead her and Gwyn together, which is good. One skill she will need to develop is gate manners. Right now she crowds the gate and tries to get to anyone coming in and that's unacceptable. I need to remember that being firm is not being abusive and she will be okay.

In non animal news, I've been getting the gardens ready for winter and  I found a small greenhouse for 70% off! I'll have a great place to start seeds next spring for the garden.