We live on 2 beautiful, little, humble acres in Lebanon, Maine.  In the Spring of 2005,  I started my quest in search of miniature dairy goats, with my main objective being to have enough fresh milk to supply my handmade, goat milk soap making. My search brought me to Cheryle Moore-Smith of Old Mountain Farm. I only wanted to keep two does, but little did I know that these beautiful animals would steal my heart.  They entertain me, they are lovable, beautiful, smart, and I could spend all my time with them.  I not only use the delicious milk for soap, but we all drink it as well.  We go for walks on our rural road and my neighbors are always looking for us!  One neighbor told me that she told her city dwelling co-workers, "you know you live in the country when your neighbor is out walking her goats".  :~)

During kidding season, I keep a video monitor in the kidding stall so that I know when they could use a little support and a loving massage (Reiki, too!) during labor.  It's also a great time for bonding!  I have to admit that I don't usually leave their side at all once I see the first signs of labor beginning.  About 2 weeks before they are due to kid, I start feeling for ligaments.  Once the ligaments disappear, I know that kidding is within 12 hours and I don't leave home.  Contrary to what you might have read, they do need you there, in most cases, to assist in the delivery.

My unfortunate dilemma is that I can't keep very many goats because of my limited space.  That said, having a small herd allows me to give each goat lots of individual attention, which is something I really don't want to lose by indulging in becoming a large breeding farm.  This does not deter my goal of breeding for excellence; allowing me to offer well bred goats to purchasers.  The hardest part of raising these beautiful animals is having to sell them, especially the older does because you become so attached.  It is, however, necessary in order to continue breeding and making sure they are clean and well cared for without being cramped or compromising their health. 

My next purchase was made at Dragonfly Farm.  Joanne is a remarkable person with a breeding program that is very impressive.  She has a main objective for each buck that she keeps;, knowing which buck will fix what in each doe.  It may be shoulders, legs and feet, mammary, or a combination.  I have been more than pleased with my purchases from Joanne.  My does and bucks from her have all exceeded my expectations of owning "correct" goats; nice sharp withers, straight legs and feet, good width, level top lines, nice angulation, tight front end assembly and great genetics!  I am looking forward to see what they (does and bucks) produce for kids.  Concerning the pedigrees, I'm sure to have some show stoppers!!