Yesterday Was the Day
We had a feeling Ginger was getting close, and yesterday proved us right.
After days of watching, waiting, checking on her, and second-guessing every little sign, Ginger decided that July 18 was the day. It was already a hot and busy day around the ranch, and she made it even busier by giving birth to four healthy baby boys.
All four kids arrived safely, and Ginger handled the entire process like an experienced mother. She immediately turned her attention to cleaning them, encouraging them to get up, and making sure they knew exactly where they belonged.
The boys are all doing well, and Ginger is doing fine too. With four newborns to care for, she certainly has her work cut out for her, but she is attentive, patient, and clearly taking her new responsibilities seriously.
The heat added an extra layer of concern throughout the day. We spent plenty of time making sure Ginger and the kids stayed comfortable, hydrated, and out of the worst of the sun. Kidding day is always busy, but four babies on a hot summer day makes for a full schedule of checking temperatures, watching for nursing, changing bedding, and making sure nobody gets pushed aside.
There is something remarkable about watching newborn goat kids figure out the world. One minute they are lying in the straw, still wet and uncertain, and the next they are trying to stand on legs that do not seem fully convinced they are supposed to work yet. Before long, they are wobbling around, calling for their mother, and beginning to show their individual personalities.
Yesterday was long, hot, and hectic, but it was also one of those days that reminds us why we love this life.
We are grateful that Ginger and all four boys are healthy, and we are excited to watch them grow. There will be plenty more photos, updates, and probably a fair amount of mischief to share in the days ahead.
Welcome to the herd, boys.
