Post by Vanessa on Dec 21, 2005 3:27:10 GMT -5
I would love to hear how everyone goes about their routine of milking and/or chores. Who knows? Maybe I will find a nugget of something to improve my own routine!! In the am, I just milk Gabi, while she is in the little 3 sided shelter. In the pm, I bring everyone into the "barn"-it is rather incomplete, no walls or doors to speak of. Everyone knows the drill and more or less stand in their places. I put neck ropes on everyone, not to hold them still, but to keep them out of each other's grain! I tie up Jesse's pony, and our yearling filly, as they are with the cows, and there is no way to keep them out of the cows feed. Its good handling for them anyways. Then everyone gets their 2nd cut hay ration, and then I put grain in the tub and present it to each cow in turn as I milk-first Gabi. Then Dolly and finally Molly. After putting the grain in front of them, I give udder and belly a quick swipe with a soft body brush. Then wipe down (I am currently using baby wipes-not as damp as the rags get, cheaper than special pre milk wipes). Then squirt the first squirt of milk out of each teat on the ground, then fill the pail. Pour milk into jars in cooler, teat dip, bag balm. Then next cow, repeat. Then drag the (heavy!) cooler to the house, then back to free the critters-first Gabi, then Molly (less agressive) then Dolly, then the filly and pony. Grab the coleman lantern, and to the house! Strain milk thru milk filters placed in a stainless steel kitchen strainer-no time to wash straining cloth, lately!! Jars go in ice water in sink for about an hour, w/occasional agitating. I have a double sink so I use the other side to wash bucket and strainer. I cover the jars with saran wrap and put the first initial of each critter's name and the date on that. I am going to be bringing in my new cows, one at a time, to live with the milk cows, so they get to be included in the routine, with more hands on. Only one at a time, so they feel a little left out and join in, plus, that's all I'll have time for right now!!
Hubby watches the kids for me.
Anyways, that's kinda how it goes here!
Hugs!
Vanessa
Hubby watches the kids for me.
Anyways, that's kinda how it goes here!
Hugs!
Vanessa