11:21 PM, 15 May 2010

Today we rooed 20 out of 38 adult sheep, including Hercules. Hooves were also trimmed; Hercules' hoof got nicked, but not badly, and he should be fine. To be on the safe side we did consult online sources (the vet being already closed) and applied a little antibiotic gel.

We got quite a lot of wool - close to a wheelbarrow-load - and our hands are now the softest in town from all the lanolin. There were numerous kicks and the occasional attempted goring, but no real major injuries were sustained by either humans or sheep.

The barn cats have been enjoying the weather, and have been catching voles and other creatures again. There was a dead vole in the workshop when they were put away for the night. Nibs had been roaming a bit further than he should have; when he heard his name being called, he came running at full speed across the fields until he reached us. Good kitty!

Wimsey is doing very poorly. We're hoping the vet can do something for him but we suspect he may be in pain at this point. Monday will be a make or break day for him, and for our hearts.

Tomorrow we go to procure more hay for the sheep, and then we will finish hoof trimming and some mild rooing as well.