Our lives here on the farm are often chaotic, and summers especially are a disorganized jumble of events and experiences. In some of this book’s passages, the dates or sequencing of events have been altered for clarity and simplicity. Some names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals and small communities, and the stories reflect my own memories of events. Not all of the animals pictured are mentioned in the book. Some of the photos include images of animals that came along after the book was written.
This book tells about our experiences with a small-scale livestock operation that is supported by our off-the-farm jobs. Because our livelihood doesn’t depend entirely on our farm income, we’ve gotten away with doing some crazy things and making poor business decisions, such as supporting a bunch of geriatric sheep geezers long after their productive years are over. I feel fortunate to be able to do things that full-time farmers don’t often have the luxury to do. Many of our friends and neighbors run full-time farming operations with expertise and efforts that far exceed ours. Theirs are the truly remarkable stories.
I would like to express my gratitude and thanks to the following people.
The skillful and good-humored Ann Regan, editor-in-chief at Borealis Books, who guided the manuscript through the publication process from beginning to end. Managing editor Shannon Pennefeather as well as Alison Aten and Mary Poggione in marketing, copyeditor Mindy Keskinen, the designers, and everyone else who worked on the book. You’ve done a great job.
Luan, Mary, and the other friends and neighbors who are mentioned in the book, and also those of you who are not mentioned by name but who enrich our lives with your friendship.
Dan Hartsell of Country Vet in Alexandria. One of Dan’s best attributes is his willingness to attempt a cure, even for the most ill, exotic, or berserk patient. He has performed some spectacular procedures on our animals. Dan has brought Lazarus the alpaca back from the brink of death more than once, using a unique combination of horse pills, hog tonic, and a good dose of black magic.
The city clerks, mayors, council members, and nonprofit agencies who took a chance on hiring a shepherdess–grant writer: Thank you for providing me with jobs and projects over the years. It’s been a pleasure working with you.
I have to acknowledge specifically the city of Browns Valley, Minnesota. Browns Valley was one of my very first consulting clients. The city council and staff, as well as the town’s people, have left a lasting impression. And this list would not be complete without a mention of Browns Valley’s flood recovery task force and those memorable deal-or-no-deal road trips with the state agencies.
And, of course, the animals. The sheep, cats, dogs, llamas, alpacas, and rabbits: faithful companions along the way (some more faithful than others) -without whom life would be a whole lot less interesting. Despite what others may say, I know you are beings of great depth, complexity, and understanding.
Terry, for his good nature and good heart, not to mention his strong back. Terry is the ideal partner for the dual enterprises of farming and life in general. He’s the one with the common sense and the level head—the glue that holds it all together. Terry’s willingness to participate in all of these animal projects goes well beyond the call of duty, and I’m always amazed at his incredible patience and grace in coping with the unexpected.
Beth, Jeremy, Jon, and Chris, for their encouragement and inspiration. Thanks for being such good sports about your inclusion in this memoir. These four have dispensed advice, developed a website, fixed my computer, made jokes, and critiqued the manuscript (as well as my parenting skills and fashion sense). I’m certain it’s a better book and I’m a better person for it. Really.
And finally, grandsons Kaiden and Ryder, for the opportunity to experience the blessings and wonder of creation all over again.