Hi! I've been lurking on this site since it opened, but finally took the time to get registered. I've had dairy goats for 3 years. I got mixed up with a very dishonest breeder for my first goats and got off to a terrible start. But I've spent the past couple of years experimenting and figuring out what I need and what works best for me. So a couple of weeks ago, I bit the bullet and sold ALL of my goats. That was not easy, as I finally had some nice goats that I was very happy with (but it was the right decision). I am starting over with a small, registered, clean alpine herd. I have 3 (possibly 4) does picked out and am just waiting for them to freshen (end of March/beginning of April) until I bring them home. I will be learning to AI this fall, so I will not be keeping a buck (which is good as I only have 3 acres and close neighbors). I have a friend who has a high quality alpine buck if I need live service. I have 8 children and use the milk for home use. Showing may be sometime in the future, but not until the children are somewhat older. We drink our milk raw, and I also make cheese and soap. It's nice to finally be an official member! PJ
Welcome PJ! I am so glad you stopped lurking Too bad about your bad start but it sounds like you did everything it takes to get on the right track. Christy :welcome
That took a lot of courage to sell your goats and start over. I applaude you. Glad you could say hello too. Nice to have you. I too have Alpines. They are great.
I sincerely hope you get started back in the right way.......8 youngin's to feed ......yea, you gonna fit in like a glove around here. Wecome to DGI, Whim
That is the cutest introduction ever. And kudos on your great decision making. But 8 kids AND goats- gosh-can I get an energy transfusion from you? Lee
Welcome PJ! I've thought of starting all over here but my farm manager (dd-22) won't let me. LOL I suppose she's right but we are working to improve things within our limits. Kalne
Thanks for the warm welcome, Kalne - it was really difficult - my dd age 11, spent 2 weeks crying daily. I finally lowered my prices, just because I had to get it finished for her sake. When I lowered the prices, they all sold within 2 days. I still got the money to fund my new herd - which was my main goal, anyway. Since they've been gone - she hasn't cried once! Buckrun - I think giving away an energy infusion might actually kill me! Glad to hear so many people love their alpines! PJ