I have never milked a goat before, or a cow for that matter. My 3rd grade class visited a dairy farm once, and I watched them hook the milking machines up. I guess that counts, right? I mean I payed attention and was quiet-that was the stipulation to get the free ice cream bar after the presentation. So technically I already knew how to do it-(read with tongue in cheek.) Needless to say, I was very nervous! But I decided to just bite the bullet and give it a try. Start slow-no aiming, or bucket, or cleaning the goat, or crying. Just learn the motion of milking.
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| pardon me ma'am, I need to see your teat |
So I got Ronnie on the stand-easy enough, we'd been practicing that for a while. Then I secured her head in the "head holder" (is there a proper name for that?) Then I mentally recited the process as I petted her with one hand and took hold with the other. I have no way to compare her teat size to other goats as she is the first one I've ever handled but I think she is kind of small.
But I did get a hold and after a little squirming and kicking and swearing, I ended up with some milk! It was all over the place: on the stand, on Ronnie, on my jeans! And it was the most wonderful feeling of accomplishment! I was prouder than the day I got second place in the Spelling Bee in the 5th grade! Woo Hoo!
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| Got milk? |
For tomorrow: How to clean a goat udder. I'm gonna go study right now and try it first thing in the morning. I think prayers are in order!
