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Barnyard Buddies:  R.I.P. Casper 1992 - 2010  |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
 Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:33:18 PM
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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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maggie14
True Blue Farmgirl
6784 Posts
Hannah
Washington
USA
6784 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:37:41 PM
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Oh Grace I am so sorry but what a beautiful way to go with you by his side. I also just lost a dear animal friend too. Blessings to you!
Hugs,
Hannah
Farmgirl sister #1219
Lifes not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away.
Just a small town country girl, farmgirl,loggergirl, trying to live her dreams. :)
P.s. I've been playing around with the spelling of my name ( weird I know) and I've decided that I will stick with Hannah for good. Sorry I got you all confused. Hugs!! |
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sherrye
True Blue Farmgirl
3775 Posts
sherry
bend in the high desert
oregon
USA
3775 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:42:53 PM
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oh grace, i am so sorry for you. it must be a long solemn night.i will pray for your loss. i send love hugs and support to you. you know i know your loss. i still miss my mini jersey buttercup. you had many years together. like you said many memories and fine fiber. love to you my friend sincerely sherrye
the learn as we go silk purse farm
farm girl #1014
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:44:26 PM
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Oh Hannah - I am so sorry for your loss... I know to some they might say "It's just an animal" but I feel sorry for those folks because they must not experience the joy and connection that we do with our four legged family members.
When I brought home Casper and his brother Sugar 13 years ago it was because they where going to be killed. The lady who owned them was being put in a nursing home and the son did not wish to be troubled finding them a home. I never planned to ever have goats on my farm but Casper was the start to my love affair with goats. For his part in my passion for animals I give THANKS.
May you remember your lost one with fondness and love.
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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Cindy Lou
True Blue Farmgirl
2325 Posts
Susan
Lonsdale
MN
USA
2325 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:44:59 PM
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Grace,
I'm sorry for your loss. Those critters can certainly hold a place in our hearts. It sounds like Casper was a lucky guy to have had so many years with you and that he knew he was appreciated and even loved. It is hard to see them go when they've been a big part of our lives, but you did all you could do. It sounds like he actually went pretty quickly without a lot of suffering. Do you have a younger son-of-Casper to keep up the line?
Susan
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Mary Oliver |
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maggie14
True Blue Farmgirl
6784 Posts
Hannah
Washington
USA
6784 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:47:19 PM
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Thank you so much Grace. It has been a hard couple of weeks because to me animals are just not animals. They are family memebers, and best friends. Thank you again so much!
Hugs,
Hannah
Farmgirl sister #1219
Lifes not about the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away.
Just a small town country girl, farmgirl,loggergirl, trying to live her dreams. :)
P.s. I've been playing around with the spelling of my name ( weird I know) and I've decided that I will stick with Hannah for good. Sorry I got you all confused. Hugs!! |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:47:52 PM
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Thank you so much Sherrye - I too miss your Buttercup in fact I told a friend about her and she will be using the name "Buttercup" for next sweet cow. Hopefully that name will live on in honor of your sweet one.
Thank you for the prayers - it is going to be a long night for I need to stay up so the coyotes don't come in for him until I can bury him in the morning.
You are in my prayers each night and I thank you Sherrye
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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kristin sherrill
True Blue Farmgirl
11303 Posts
kristin
chickamauga
ga
USA
11303 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:52:21 PM
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Grace, I am so sorry. Wow though. 18 years old. That's amazing. What a great guy he must have been. I don't think we can ever prepare for this, no matter how old they are. My Abby goat is 8 years old. And I have 2 Rat Terriers that are 13 1/2. I can't imagine them not being around here. But it will happen someday I know. But still, it has to be hard.
You will be in my thoughts, Grace.
Hugs, Kris
Happiness is simple. |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:54:41 PM
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Thank you so much Susan for your kind words. Both Sugar and Casper are neutered so no babies directly but the two guys where my teachers for the young billies. They would teach them manners, the rules of the farm and also be their protectors. Casper also was a great listener and often he had to put up with me whinning about my aches and pains, or hearing the lastest tales of road trip mishaps - most of all he gave great smiles and loved to get kisses on the nose. So I hope this years boys have learned all the best from this great guy because no one could ever fill his shoes.
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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Sheep Mom 2
True Blue Farmgirl
1534 Posts
Sheri
Elk
WA
USA
1534 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 7:55:58 PM
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Grace I am so sorry for your loss. I know how it is to lose our 4 legged family members. Know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you tonight as you keep your vigil.
Blessings, Sheri
"Work is Love made visible" -Kahlil Gibran |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 8:00:00 PM
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Kris your so kind and I thank you for your warm words. Your right, you can never be ready and I knew this day was coming - I am amazed at the age of some of my goats. I have three others that also are 18 years young and I make it a point to spend as much time as I can with them and cherish each day I see they bright faces. I know the one that will do me in is when my sweet Kasha (Great Pry) goes. She is turning 11 years young and I have never had a pry make it to 11 so I know that horrible day is coming and I just be thankful for each day I get with her.
I hope yours live long and loving lives and Your in my thoughts 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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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
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Ninibini
True Blue Farmgirl
7577 Posts
Nini
Pennsylvania
USA
7577 Posts |
Posted - Dec 05 2010 : 10:31:52 PM
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Awwww... Grace! So sad... I can only imagine what you must be feeling. You're in my prayers, too. Hugs - Nini
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
Farmgirl Sister #1974 |
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rough start farmgirl
True Blue Farmgirl
3331 Posts
marianne
The Beautiful Pacific NW
Washington State
USA
3331 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 02:46:55 AM
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Oh Grace, I am so sorry for your loss. How lucky you are to have known such a wonderful ol" guy and how fortunate for him to have spent so much of his life at your farm. I know you will feel his absense for a long time, You are in my prayers . . .
Marianne |
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Penny Wise
True Blue Farmgirl
1903 Posts
Margo
Elyria
OH
USA
1903 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 03:08:19 AM
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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!~*~ |
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Mumof3
True Blue Farmgirl
3890 Posts
Karin
Ellenwood
GA
USA
3890 Posts |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 05:53:34 AM
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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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sherrye
True Blue Farmgirl
3775 Posts
sherry
bend in the high desert
oregon
USA
3775 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:10:10 AM
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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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Fiddlehead Farm
True Blue Farmgirl
4562 Posts
Diane
Waupaca
WI
USA
4562 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:12:12 AM
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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 |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 06:58:02 AM
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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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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:01:46 AM
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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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Alee
True Blue Farmgirl
22944 Posts
22944 Posts |
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Sheep Mom 2
True Blue Farmgirl
1534 Posts
Sheri
Elk
WA
USA
1534 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:53:30 AM
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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 |
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Annika
True Blue Farmgirl
5602 Posts
Annika
USA
5602 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:58:53 AM
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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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Mommyswanson
True Blue Farmgirl
463 Posts
Laura
Waukegan
IL
USA
463 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 07:59:14 AM
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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." |
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Marybeth
True Blue Farmgirl
6418 Posts
Mary Beth
Stanwood
Wa 98292
USA
6418 Posts |
Posted - Dec 06 2010 : 08:19:19 AM
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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!" |
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Barnyard Buddies: R.I.P. Casper 1992 - 2010 |
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R.I.P. Casper 1992 - 2010
