I arrived at the Terry's farm in Warkworth last night and I'm completely hooked already. Within 5 minutes of arriving Michelle taught me to milk their lovely goat Julie. I spent the evening getting to know the lovely dogs, Chloe- a creamy pedigree border collie with the sweetest temperament, mother to 6 bouncing 4 week old pups who are a total riot, and lovely Rusty, a typical NZ working dog I'm told, bit of a mix and playful as the pups at times! There's 2 older cats Smoky the long haired one and Teddy the black. Also Loveabubs the crazy kitten, a total sweety and hilarious tumbling about with the puppies and jumping out on the dogs and chickens. There's Baz the handsome arab stallion, and Ruby and Bee his lovley lady wives. Topaz is Ruby's 3 week old little daughter, super sweet and confident foal. Bee is due any day now so we are pretty excited.
There's Meg the little native goat and Cutie the jersey cow. Yet to meet Twiggy the pig and the other cows. There are all manner of chickens and some v loud roosters! 4am wake up call anyone??
Nick and the children Elise and Toby are still at pony club camp but due back today. Michelle and I spent some time chatting last night and I cooked some pasta. She is lovely and really interested in nutrition and naturopathy for both people and animals so I'm learning lots. This morning she took me round to feed all the animals which will be my daily job- took us about an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. Their food all looks super appetising, organic grains and cereals and fresh raw veal for the carnivores. All the animals are supplemented with a mix of molasses, seaweed and apple cider vinegar which keeps them free of worms and parasites and healthy and happy.
I'm tired as didn't sleep too well last night in the new environment with lots of strange animal sounds, but sure I'll be fine tonight. May take a nap in the hammock. There's a sauna, spa and plunge pool here too, so lots to do to relax, but I'm so happy just playing with the animals.
The views are stunning. I've uploaded a few quick snaps on facebook but will be looking into a better site for uploading and storing my pics, or may even send the home on cds. It takes ages to upload! Missing you all and thinking of you.
With much love,
Lucy
p.s. I have an NZ mobile number now but there;s practically no mobile reception out here so email me or you can call the house if urgent. The number is 0064 (0)94225203 xxxx
Oh, the puppies are goyjus. Hey, only days into your adventure and you are already having the best time! Imagine how you will feel after a month. So happy for you. hug a mammal 4 me.xxxxxxxxxxxx moomin(er, not missing you now, just missing the puppies. Grrrrrrrrr.)
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