Happy county fair season, and good luck to all the 4-H individuals showing off their animals this year!

This last July was particularly unique, not only because it was Daisy’s 11th birthday, but because this meant that she has been with the farm for a full decade!

Daisy was able to come home to the farm when she was weaned from her mother, and after we prepared a shelter for her.

When a young donkey is introduced to the different foods that will become its adult regimen (like hay or grain), the baby begins to rely less and less on its mother’s milk and more on those foods. Around six months of age, the donkey should be fully weaned from the mother and survive without her milk on its own.

In the past, a small celebration on Daisy’s birthday would include treats such as fruits or vegetables, but this year we wanted to do more for her, to let her know how extraordinary she is, and how much she is loved by everyone around her.

A “happy birthday” banner was hung across the shed overhang for everyone to enjoy, party horns were blown, “Happy Birthday” was sung, party hats were worn by all the surrounding humans and goats, lots of hugs were given, and candles were lit atop a delicious bran muffin prior to being enjoyed by our girl.

The only questionable part of the party was Daisy’s reaction to the party horns, as she didn’t seem to be very amused by the noises coming out of them!

The following few days after the celebration, we realized that Daisy’s birthday was the following week, so we celebrated it again for fun! That time she had peppermint donkey cookies and apple flavored corn. This was a truly delightful month for Daisy, the protector at the farm!