My New Year's Resolution

So I've resolved to begin posting again. Last year came and went before I knew it. The ducks were a fun addition to the farm last year — lots of pretty and interesting heritage breeds such as Black Cayuga, Buff, Blue Swedish and Anconas. (I promise pictures later.) Last year also saw the introduction of livestock guardian dogs to the ranch. Jill, a four year old Akbash, arrived last May and has become the great protector of the sheep and poultry. She has been joined by the newest member of the "dog team," Nia (short for Gardenia), a 9 week old Akbash. Nia is in training with three small ewe lambs and when she is bigger will join Jill to help guard the ranch. Nia literally shakes with excitement every afternoon when she watches Jack herd the sheep down from the hillsides and sees Jill rushing in behind them to greet me and have her dinner.