Spring is Right Around the Corner

[Kari Hollman]

    I am sincerely hoping that fate puts a hold on a monsoon and month long flu for me during this calving season. Last year nearly killed me, I don't want to test the theory that it only made me stronger.

    This year I hope that we are calving in the south pasture at my husband's Grandpa's farm. Grandpa John is 89 and a retired farmer. He taught Terry most of what he knows and gave him his old 1968 David Brown 990. He has taught me a little about calving over the last 2 years. I always panic like a rookie when a cow doesn't have a calf fast enough for my liking. He taught me to be patient and give the cow some time. As long as she is making progress with the birth, leave her alone. He has a big jug of sangria wine that he brings out and says, "Stay in here and watch with the binoculars where it is warm. Have a glass of wine. Relax." The only ones I really worry about are the heifers, the cows are usually fine. I have had one breech calf the first year I was in charge of calving. I thought she was in labor, although nothing was presenting. I did save the cow in the end, but not her calf.