| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:33:18 PM
Early this evening my sweet four legged farm friend was calling to me for his supper. I gave him a quick kiss on the nose and told him I would be back as soon as I fed the dogs. After finishing the goat girls and dogs I was on my way back to the barn that Casper and his buddy Sugar govern over the youngest billies. Casper gave me his sweet smile and before I knew it he fell to his knees and crumbled into a heap. I ran with all I was worth to get to him, I stood him up but one side could not even hold his weight. I picked him up and with that strange strength you get when it is really life and death, I carried him into the barn.
I ran for the vet kit and blankets but knew in my heart that my dear friend was not long for this world. Still I would try everything I could. I got him covered and started the heater, tried to get warm fluids into him but he no longer could swallow. I got on the ground with him and placed his head in my lap. I whispered to him of all the wonderful times we had together as I stroked his neck and and held him close. The lovely fiber he has shared with me and my customers over the years as been nothing but perfection. The wisdom and patience he gave to each years batch of new billies here on the farm I felt is why my boys are such kind and gentle billies.
I had this kind hearted friend for 13 years and celebrated each day that I had with him because he was 18 years young and I knew this day was coming. I was not willing for it to be today, but there was never going to be a day that I would be ready...
So, I wish to thank Casper for all those moments that have made my time, care and love with him so wonderful - I will never forget you and I hope I added to your life while you where here.
Blessings and I love you...
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| 25 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| amomfly |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 6:00:12 PM
Oh Grace, I am so sorry. I know your loss. I will pray for a healing heart. God Bless all of our fur friends here and in heaven.
God Bless
Angie-amomfly
#1038 |
| missusprim |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 1:35:54 PM
My heart aches for ya right now, it's never easy losing a pet. I have no idea how goats act when one of their buddies pass but I imagine you're giving them all special attention.
Casper had a wonderful home and a caring owner, and he was so very lucky to get nose kisses each and every day! |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 10:01:15 AM
Hi Jeannie - I am not 100% sure but all the signs points to a stroke. One side weakness, loss of eyesight, motor function impaired. I took all the hay away that way fed that day, watch everyone closely and not one else had issues - thought it might have been plant issue but check thru all the hay from that bale and found nothing. Casper was way past the normal life of a goat so I would wish to believe he was just called to greener pastures.
Nicole and Brandee I thank you so much for your kind words and support. It is much appreciated..
Today I am watching "BABE" while I do my computer work - I so love that movie and it reminds me of all the reasons I do what I do. I also have been spending as much time as I can with all the goats. My expecting girls are round and jolly - there are several who would want me to rub their tummies until my arms fall off which I would gladly do if I did not have so much work to get done.
I finished dyeing some of Casper's fleece from spring shearing and it is remarkable - hopefull I will list some this weekend on my shop sights. This way he will live on in the incredible projects that folks make out of the fiber - such a blessing to share his fiber with those who know him and love him.
Have a great day all and hugs those you are around today no matter they be two or four legged.
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| homsteddinmom |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 05:40:53 AM
hugs to you!!
Homesteading Mom in East Texas. Raising chickens, Rabbits and goats here on my farm! |
| texdane |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 04:50:57 AM
Grace,
I am so sorry to hear about Casper. You gave him a great home and life, and it was nice that you were with him when we passed. Hugs to you.
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE |
| jpbluesky |
Posted - Dec 09 2010 : 01:28:07 AM
grace, so sorry for your loss. 18 is a long life for an animal, and it is such a wonderful thing that you had him so long. Do you know what happened? Was it a stroke? You took good care of him, and he was lucky to have you.
Farmgirl Sister # 31
www.blueskyjeannie.blogspot.com
Psalm 51: 10-13 |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 9:32:05 PM
Welcome Marjorie to MaryJane - I thank you so much for your kind words and support. Most often you can find me sharing funny stories of my four legged family members here at the farm but every once and a while sadness does visit us. I count my blessings each day that I am the caretaker and friend to may who call this place home and have cherished memories of those who are no longer here. I know in time you will find this site a second home - filled with wonderful, helping and supportive ladies such as yourself.
Again, Welcome and Blessings
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| Arctic Flower |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 7:20:31 PM
Grace,
As a new sister here, I was going through and read your story about your loss. My heart hurt for you. I am so sorry you lost such a grand companion. He is a very handsome boy. I send you love and comfort from one sister to another.
Marjorie
Farmgirl #2416
Believe in the power of Love! |
| chick-chick |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 7:03:47 PM
Oh Grace I'm so sorry for your loss, your Casper was a beautiful fellow. Please remember we are women and we can endure what ever the world thows at us, plus you have your sisters here on the farm, giving you a shoulder to cry on and the other shoulder to support you.
You are in my thoughts.
Liz
In God We Trust |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 07:40:41 AM
Good Morning Laura - thank you so very much for the kind words - your right my family not only includes my human loved ones but my four legged ones as well. Casper will always have a special place in my heart - his kind sweet nature will never be forgotten.
Dear Mary Jo - hold those kid goats close and snuggle every minute you can. Folks sometime do not understand why I can get lost in my barns for hours at a time - it is because I am spending time, snuggle time with them. I too bury my face in their sweet fiber, talk softly in those buttery soft ears, rub their joints when the weather is bitter and bring out special apple slices to reward just being alive. Far too often we get caught in the daily chores of their up keep and forget to just BE with them. I know you understand the love they give back and how unconditional it is. So please give those sweet ones a hug from me and one to yourself. Thank you for your support and understanding.
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 07:33:50 AM
Good Morning Alee and Annika
I thank you so much for your kind words and support. It means the world to me that others got to know Casper thru my posts and pictures and understand the sadness of his loss. You both have made me feel safe to share my sarrow and your words and hugs do help.
You have made this passing a bit more bearable - Hugs back to you both.
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 07:29:58 AM
Oh I bet Stanley gives the best kisses Mary Beth. Last night while feeding I think all the goats knew I really could use some snugs - everyone was really especially affectionate - I sure did appreciate their extra attention. My Ebony my oldest female would not let me leave the barn. I sat for a good hour or so just snuggling and talking with her. She was another rescue goat who when she came to me was a complete mess. She threw herself against the walls of the barns until she lost her baby and cut herself all up. She hate people and did not like animals either - but with love, attention and strength I managed to get her through it and for the past 13 years she has become the best mother ever and the lead female goat here. So you never know what treasuries come from another throw away.
Give Stanley and big hug and kiss from this goat momma... Thanks again Mary Beth for your kinds words..
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| gypsy goat |
Posted - Dec 07 2010 : 07:29:37 AM
oh grace i am so very sorry, i'm crying for you right now;( i can't even imagine how you feel i love my goat babies so very much i love to kiss them and hug on them and to bury my face in their coats. he was a beautiful goat, hope each day your heart is a little less heavy. big hugs from a fellow goat lover
farmgirl#1362 whatever you are be a good one-abe lincoln |
| Marybeth |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 08:19:19 AM
Oh Grace I am so sorry for your loss. We all have to go through those time . My Stanley goat is coming 2 and he loves to give kisses too. I will always be reminded of Casper.
Take care. MB
http://www.smallcityscenes.blogspot.com
www.day4plus.blogspot.com
"Life may not be the party we hoped for...but while we are here we might as well dance!" |
| Mommyswanson |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:59:14 AM
Grace I am so sorry for your loss. Our animals friends are a true part of our family. May you always hold your memories of Casper close & dear.
Laura
"That which does not kill us makes us strong!" "I cast all my cares upon you Lord." |
| Annika |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:58:53 AM
Grace, I'm so sorry about Casper =( Your post has brought tears . I hope that you are doing ok? I'm so sorry for your loss. Casper sounds like he was a sweet spirit and I know how hard it is to lose a beloved animal and how much he will be missed *Hugs*
Annika
Farmgirl & sister #13
Palouse Prairie Girls Chapter
http://palouseprairiegirls.blogspot.com/
http://prairiegirlsjournal.blogspot.com/
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. ~Leonardo DaVinci
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| Sheep Mom 2 |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:53:30 AM
I'm glad you made it through the long night okay. I checked in here first thing this morning. Know that I am still thinking of you.
Blessings, Sheri
"Work is Love made visible" -Kahlil Gibran |
| Alee |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:09:40 AM
Oh Grace! I am so sorry for your loss! I am in tears just reading you post. I am sure he had the most wonderful life at your farm. My heart goes out to you in this time of loss. *hugs*
Alee
Farmgirl Sister #8
www.farmgirlalee.blogspot.com
www.allergyjourneys.blogspot.com
Put your pin on the farmgirl map! www.farmgirlmap.blogspot.com |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:01:46 AM
Thank you so much Diane for your wonderful words. It was my honor to take care of him and provide him a home where he was safe, loved and yes scolded sometimes. Not many times but what goat does not need a talking too every now and then.
I also want to thank you for your tag line - it makes me giggle each time I read it - " I am proud not to be a Barbie, besides she can not stand on her own two feet " Thanks for giving me a giggle.
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:58:02 AM
Sherrye, I thank you so much for your strength and support. Both of my sons are one the road for work but we spoke a bit. I remind myself all the time of the saying "If you knew who walk beside you, you would never feel alone" For me I feel so lucky to have such support from my online friends and I hold each and everyone of you close to me.
Today I gave everyone a special hug or kiss and reminded myself what a lucky gal I am to have so many to love and care for - besides they count on me to get things done...
So Happy Saint Nicholas Day for those of us who celebrate it and give thanks for all our special friends...
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| Fiddlehead Farm |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:12:12 AM
Grace, I am sorry to hear of your loss. Casper sounds like a wonderful companion and friend. What a wonderful life you have given him and his brother. He was very loved.
http://studiodiphotosite.shutterfly.com/
farmgirl sister #922
Happy to be a "Raggedy Ann" in a Barbie World!
I get up every morning determined to both change the world and have one hell of a good time. Sometimes this makes planning my day difficult.
- E. B. White |
| sherrye |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:10:10 AM
when i got up this morning first thing i checked on you. i am relieved your night went well. the next days will be tough for sure. i will pray and hope to send strength your way. it saddens ma to think of you there doing this alone. i know you have your critters. just know i am here for you. much love sherrye
the learn as we go silk purse farm
farm girl #1014
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| grace gerber |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 05:53:34 AM
Thank you all for such kind words and for taking the time to read of my sweet Casper. It was a very long and bitter cold night but the coyotes where kept at bay. Sugar who was on the other side of the barn enclosure called for Casper thru the night. I did bring him over to say his goodbyes and to see that his buddy would not be with us anymore. I think about three this morning it finally settled into Sugar's mind and he turned away and took his place with the little billy boys. Now Sugar has the sole responsibility for the teaching and protection. I will watch him closely to make sure he does not get over whelmed or over worked.
Again, I thank you for the kind words it means the world to me. I know us farmgirls not only make a living from our animals but create life time friendship with them too..
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
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| Mumof3 |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 04:41:40 AM
I am so sorry, Grace. I'm glad you were able to be with him at the end. He must surely have known how much you loved him.
Karin
www.perfectlittlemiracle.blogspot.com
www.athreadofred.blogspot.com |
| Penny Wise |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 03:08:19 AM
grace...i am sorry to read this morning of your loss...you were both lucky to have found each other...i am certain casper will be fondly remembered...i am a firm believer in being with your loved ones when they pass and am glad you were able to hold him and love him at his end......
hugs and prayers to you......
Farmgirl # 2139
~*~ counting my pennies and biding my time; my dreams are adding up!~*~ |
