Day 14 - Swartbosch (Murraysburg)(Rest day)

After a quick coffee, all of us went with Phil to start the day’s work.. Dosing and dipping the Angoras.. We, together with his workers, quickly fell into a routine.. Some catching and setting them up, other dosing or dipping; as well as crutching and also vaccinating.. The ewes took up the whole morning, and after we were finished with them; we went back home for lunch.. Phil thoroughly enjoying the four extra pairs of hands on the farm (literally doubling the workforce).. Rykie was in town; where she was working two days a week as a lawyer.. We had bread and the leftover meat from last night’s braai for lunch; and everyone had a quick nap..

We went back to the kraal, Anja tagging along this time, to finish up with the lambs.. The lambs were easier to pick up, but took nearly as long as the ewes; it was already late afternoon by the time we finished and went home, sitting on the grass; too lazy even to take a dip in the dam.. The two sheepdogs were also lying panting in the shade, after a long day’s work (Chippie more than Flash)..

It was a rather eventful day and we learned a lot from Phil, as none of us has had prior experience with the Angora breed.. We really enjoyed the day, although it was physically taxing.. We once again had a braai, chicken for a change, and also braaibroodjies.. Rykie made a milktart as well, which we finished after supper.. We then prepared ourselves to go out with Phil, whom was hunting that evening; and was out in the veld till past midnight.. Driving around under the majestic starry sky above.. Although the hunt didn’t go as expected, it was still a fun evening.. Benjamin, one of the workers, went with and his knowledge of the veld and sharp eyesight astounded us..

We went to bed exhausted after a long, hard day; but content with life.. Farm work always has that way to uplift one’s spirit.. The horses at least had a proper rest day; with them being in the green lush pasture, with sweet water in the trough.. We are really grateful that the horses had a proper rest day; with enough grazing to eat their fill..