Arguably the fastest way to improve your herd, Artificial insemination is becoming more and more popular. As you gain more experience with raising & breeding goats, you'll soon learn that a quality buck can make all the difference in improving your herd. For me, I found it frustrating to find a buck with the right genetics for my girls. Some … [Read more...]
What I learned at the 2021 ADGA Convention
Traveling isn't really my thing ? So when I heard that the annual ADGA convention was coming to Arizona, I knew I should take advantage of it being so close. While I've own ADGA registered goats for 12 years now, I recently have begun to take part in their ADGA Plus program, like milk testing & linear appraisal. And since Crystal from Blue … [Read more...]
The Easiest Shade Structure
In Arizona, shade is a MUST. And it seems like the only option is to purchase triangle shade cloth and tie it as tight as you can. Only problem is -- it never stays tight. And on a windy day or during monsoon season, you have to take it down to prevent it from tearing. After years of struggling with shade fabric that tore or sagged, we wanted … [Read more...]
A Guide to Goat Body Conformation
I used to think people who showed goats were um...interesting. Even though I spent my days milking & caring for my own goats, I could never understand the appeal of shaving them down and walking them around in front of a judge. In the past my focus has been to breed goats for milk & to raise up the friendly … [Read more...]
The BEST Goat Feeder for adults & babies!
Many have asked for the specifics for the goat feeder that we’ve perfected over the last 10 years. It has taken many iterations and testing to be able overcome all of the issues that arise when goats don’t use the feeder the way I’ve told them to a million times. Here she is in all her … [Read more...]
Kidding Positions (and how to assist with them)
When it comes to goat kidding, there's no such thing as being too prepared. And in the heat of the moment, nothing can quicken your heart faster than a mama in trouble. That why I like to have all the resources & tools I can in my birthing kit. On average, goats can do very well on their own when it comes to labor & delivery -- but … [Read more...]
Our Limping Goat: Carpal Hyperextension in Nigerian Dwarfs
It started with Penny. She was a 6 year old Nigerian Dwarf that I purchased from a friend. Her registered name was Red Lotus Ni Hao Kai Lan, but she looked just like a 'Penny' to us, so we gave her the nickname and had high hopes for her becoming a foundation doe on our farm -- given her amazing milking records. Now that I know what I … [Read more...]
Boho Modern Master Bedroom & Bathroom
We did it. We finally, finally -- after living in this house 12 years, tackled the master bedroom & bathroom. It seemed like every time we were ready to give it a go, some other project would demand our attention. You know you're a devoted backyard farmer when you'll spend your energy on a chicken coop while sleeping in a room with … [Read more...]
Our Custom Goat Barn!
And it only took 12 years. 12 years for us to decide it was time to take this goat-raising thing seriously and build a proper barn. Sure, our old DIY pallet shelter worked for a time, but we needed something big and sturdy and ready for pregnant mamas to deliver in. And so, the goat barn project was born. Like any other project here on the … [Read more...]
Goat Diet: Optimal Nutrition & Feeding Tips
A Goat's Diet: You wouldn't think feeding a goat is complicated. I mean, let 'em loose in the overgrown backyard and they'll be happy, right? Unfortunately, no. Surprisingly enough, goats don't prefer grass. Sure, they'll nibble at it a bit, and if it's all that's available they'll force it down, but it's like brussels sprouts to them. They'll … [Read more...]
DIY Corner Floating Shelf
DIY projects. Just the thing to test the strength of a marriage. And ours was definitely tested with this DIY corner floating shelf. I've often wondered how people like Chip & Joanna Gaines can pull the endless-project-ness off. Oh, that's right. They have a crew of 30 experts to help them. Alas, we do not. But what we do have … [Read more...]
Fall Activities That {surprisingly} the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Fall Activities Don't you just LOVE fall? Most people would probably cry tears of sadness thinking about the end of summer, but for us folks in Arizona, where the temps make us cry tears of sweat, we welcome the fall with open arms. I tell ya', this summer has been rough for lots of people -- with the dry weather, scorching sun, & … [Read more...]
How much does a Goat Cost?
Goat life. There ain't nothin' like it. Sure goats are mischievous, but their cuddly, playful nature can win over anybody. So, the question is, how much does a goat cost, and will one fit easily into your life? Goats are hilarious, and trust me, after you see the cost breakdown I think you'll be ready to start your goat-shopping … [Read more...]
17 Pygmy Goats That Will Melt Your Heart
(photo credit: kysme photography) You know what's better than baby goats? Pygmy baby goats. Pygmy goats are the tiniest goats in the world and their fluffiness will melt your little heart. Pygmy goats actually originate from Africa, where they were primarily bred for meat. But we're not going to talk about that, are we? Nope. … [Read more...]
Mexican-inspired Rice in the Rice Cooker
Living in Arizona has its benefits. We arguably have the most authentic Mexican cuisine this side of the border. Here in Arizona you're not gonna find "Tex-Mex wanna-be" recipes. Nope, here you'll find amazing flavor that is as authentic as they come. Well, as authentic as us Americans can make it ;) One of the best adaptations I've … [Read more...]
Ten Things They Don’t Tell You About Homesteading
Oh, homesteading. You crafty little bugger. You've got my heart, but you've also got my blood, sweat, & tears. As a seasoned homesteader, I thought I'd share some things most people don't talk about when it comes to homesteading. Because you need a farmy friend to tell you the truth. So that's what I'm'a gonna do. Whether you've … [Read more...]
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