Sunday, April 05, 2015

R.I.P. Whistlestop 0338

I just turning into our driveway from the women's retreat as Rick and Brian were leaving in the pickup. Rick told me they had stripped the sheep fold and were headed to town to get straw. As I was picking my jaw up from the good news, he hit me with the sad news; they found Annabelle dead in the fold this morning.

Annabelle was old, extremely thin, and frail; I knew I wouldn't have her another year. I was just trying to sustain her while she still enjoyed life. She gave me six beautiful lambs - all with wonderful fleece - in addition to the ram lamb that came with her as a package deal, and produced a wonderful fleece herself every year. Once she figured out the routine here, she was a great help in leading the rest of the girls in and out of the fold. Removing the difficult decision of when and how to say good-bye was her final gift to me; she was always the lady and the "good sheep." I'll miss you, old girl....

16 comments:

Spinners End Farm said...

Sorry Michelle....those old ones are always so dear.

Anonymous said...

Sorry about Annabelle It is hard to say goodbye but she had a great sheepie life.

A :-) said...

Oh, I'm so sorry, Michelle. It's so hard to say goodbye.

Unknown said...

So sorry, Michelle.

Tina T-P said...

Sorry to hear about the loss of your dear Annabelle. It is good that you have the lambs to bring your spirits up - they are very cute. T.

MISS PEACH ~(^.^)~ said...

oh how very sad for you my sweet friend...sending you soft warm hugs as soft as Annabelle's fleece...I care so much...
Love Karla

Theresa said...

Oh Michelle, I am so, so sorry. And bless her for making it all so easy on everyone. How lucky you both were to have each other. Big tearful hugs to all.

Unknown said...

My sympathies. She was certainly a good and valuable member of the flock!

sewbeezy said...

So sorry to hear about Annabelle. Those final farewells are always hard.

Kelly said...

If only every sheep could have the wonderful life that you gave Annebelle. Rest well sweet girl.

Molly Bee said...

RIP Annabelle! Hugs to you Michelle!

Molly Bee said...

RIP Annabelle! Hugs to you Michelle!

Tammy said...

Very sorry to hear about Annabelle. The old ones, they are special and it is hard to see them gone. Maybe because we worry more for their frailty or just admire them in their stubborn will to carry on 'as normal'. Indeed it is a blessing for them to go on their own, but still hard to see them go. I've been meaning to comment on your lambs. Cute little buggers and am glad you got a couple of ewe lambs. I miss the lamb races here, but NOT all the worry and work the little ones add.

Take care,
Tammy

LannieK said...

So sorry to hear about Annabelle. No matter how long or short, it's just not easy. )))hugs(((

Diane said...

Sorry to hear of your loss. But know that you gave her the best life she could have and hopefully you have some offspring from her still.

Lisa Smith said...

Bless her heart, it sounds like Annabelle stayed with you as long as she could. You gave her a great life. I'm so sorry.