The Plague of Flies

Our house keeps filling up with flies. It is bizarre. And we had a six legged calf born. Look it up on google, apparently it isn't as odd as you would think and is just a weird genetic glitch. It is called conjoined or parasitic twins and happens because the twins don't separate properly. While many six legged calves live, ours had to be put down because she couldn't breathe when she stood up. (the extra legs were attached to her spine near her shoulders.) It was hard. She was a cute little thing, with a sweet temperment and innocence. We also had a cow lose a newborn in birth. All in the same day. Big Bummer. So we went this morning and got a couple little Holstein bull calves from a dairy to try to put on the mamas who lost their little ones. These are called drop calves, and the dairies don't have any use for them. This is our first attempt at this, and so far, it doesn't look like it will work. We tried all the tricks that all the 'cattle folk' gave us, (tieing on the dead calves tail, using vicks on the cows nose, etc) but the only nursing that has taken place has been when the mama cow is in the chute. But folks told us it could take awhile, so time will tell. Otherwise, Johanna is excited at the prospect of having a couple little ones to bottle feed, and she is now in charge of the cattle, because I have to leave again. While I was in Las Vegas, my dad was hospitalized. He has since been discharged, but today things took a turn for the worse, and I have to go down there and help them. I don't know how long I will be gone. So, it could be a while before we have another post. Until then, enjoy your days.