I got to milk a goat!

Yesterday I went to meet in person one of my long time online friends. We were always saying we needed to get together, so we finally set a date. After an 90 minute drive and only getting a "little" lost a a few times I pulled into Lynn's driveway.  Lynn came walking out of the barn where she and her daughter were milking a few of the goats. After a hug and many greetings from  their German Shepherd, we went to the barn  where I met  her lovely daughter  Emily, as well as many kittens and goats.

I asked if I could try milking a goat as I have always wanted to try milking. Lynn gave me a quick lesson as she milked the first goat. Milk rhythmically streamed into the bucket  creating a nice frothy top. I was excited and thought it did not look too hard. The job was quickly finished and then it was my turn.

I took hold of the warm teat and thought confidently I would have no problems doing this as things like thins tends to come naturally for me. I squeezed and small streams of milk awkwardly went in every direction. Much of the milk missed the pan, but not me. Kittens soon were at my feet thinking a treat was coming their way, well some did, but not on purpose, it should have gone into the bucket. I did enjoyed the milking  and learned it was NOT as easy as Lynn made it look. She kindly told me I should have seen the first time she milked. I think  she was trying to make me feel better. Not wanting to waste more milk,  I let Lynn take over and she quickly finished while I licked some of the warm sweet milk off my hands. We chatted while Lynn milked the rest of the goats and I played with the kittens. I did a better job of playing with the kittens than milking goats.

We then spent the rest afternoon talking, snapping beans, touring the house and grounds and meeting other critters of the farm. All too soon it was time for  me to head for home. I was sent along my way with some of  wonderful cold milk and kefir grains so I can make Kefir at home.

The drive home was pleasant and I only missed two turns but only had to back track once. I hope to make another trip there yet this fall  when the leaves are in full color. I hope to try my hand at milking again  as well. Perhaps with practice I might get enough for a cup of milk to drink.

Thank you Lynn and Emily for a most enjoyable afternoon!