The Groundbreaking!

Well I really haven't felt up to blogging since the goats were taken, but I knew that I needed to jump back in here eventually, soooo...I thought it appropriate to start with today. We have been over all the possible options for keeping our remaining animals safe, and getting some new does (after all, there is Mr. T to consider!) and my hubby (bless his heart :)) and I have decided to do a number of things different this time. We're looking into LGD's and have put our feelers out for one who will suit our needs, and our pocketbook. But first we're building a new four sided and lockable barn, the prospect of which is both invigorating and terrifying! Of course there is the cost to consider, and since our business is pretty slow (understatement) right now, taking a loan out for a barn almost declares us certifiably insane. But we've wanted one for a long time, and we figure if we're going to have the animals, it's only right to house them properly. The barn will provide better shelter and a place to lock them up at night if necessary, and will raise our property value. It will also give us tons of conveniences like LIGHT during the winter months, lots of hay storage, and even catch pens, kidding and grooming stalls...I'm swear I'm giddy just thinking about it! So here are the before and after groundbreaking pics plus one of the llamas looking on. Blue Skies was all for the change but the others were having serious doubts. This picture is of Blue Skies and Cholula "discussing the matter". I'm not worried though... with a little "treat persuasion" they'll all come around eventually!

Les and I are going to build the barn ourselves (double bless his heart), so I'll keep you posted as we make progress. Tomorrow we go shopping for plumbing and electrical piping and Monday we're renting a Ditchwitch. If nothing else, the physical exercize ought to make us sleep better :)

Oh, and an update on the Mountain Lions. We haven't caught them yet, but I think we're on our way. A neighbor told us that if we have an attack, and contact the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Dept. that they could help. Well, last week the lions came back and tried to attack the llamas (thankfully noone was hurt) and so I called the OFW and to my wonder, they actually have a trapper on call who will come out and eradicate the cougars! He is professional and experienced and I feel sure that he will trap them given time. I thought I would throw out that info for anyone else who might have the same problem.