Simone, the matriarch of our small herd of goats passed unexpectedly on Friday, November 20. It is like reaching the last couple of sentences in a favorite chapter. We will turn the page, but go back often to this chapter, with its pictures, notes in the margins, dog-eared pages, and warmth.
Simone was one of our first goats, and came originally from Joel and Ann, who are "real farmers," who raised goats for both cheese-making and meat. She was the first of our goats to give birth to kids, was the best mother to those kids, and kept us supplied in milk and cheese as we got our hobby farm underway. The stories are endless, and often funny--
Like Simone's first date with Jack, the Buck. Often heart-warming, in the way she tended to her newborn kids--
As sad as it was to say good-bye, it was comforting to have her mates gathered around, aware that she was ailing, offering their support--Scout sounding the "alarm" when Simone was unable to get up, Piper and Fanny checking in and reaching out with a hoof as we sat with her waiting for the vet to arrive.
Yes Simone, it has been a wonderful chapter, one will cherish and continue to share for years to come. You will be sorely missed on the farm, and your spirit will continue to enrich the chapters yet to come!
©2020
