Pet lambs Peaches, Fig, Chalk and Pickle don't know it quite yet, but they'll be getting their last official bottle feed on Sunday here at Struan Farm.
Buzz, Sugar and Spice, the "Big Three," were weaned a few weeks ago, without much if any histrionics; except perhaps for Spice's vaulting escapades over the retaining wall, up onto the lawn and into the gardens.
We have guests staying in the Cottage Saturday night, and I don't want them subjected to wails outside their bedroom windows. So we're waiting to pull the plug until the guests depart on Sunday. I expect the lambs will get some random bottles over the holidays from visiting kids, but those don't count as "official." I'll be able to clean up the kitchen scale and clear off one entire bench/counter that's been the dedicated feeding station, with bag of powdered milk, measuring cups, whisk, and bottle drying rack. Affectionately known as "Mess Central."
As previously reported, feeding pet lambs is a major commitment. This year we started in August with six then five bottles a day. After three weeks it's down to three each day, but someone has to do it each and every day, three times a day, for months.
And it goes without saying that feeding pet lambs is also a labour of love, at least for me. Much as I'm relieved when the bottles draw to a close for the season.
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