There's nothing better than a piggy birthday!  Rachel was one of Paige's babies born in the dead of winter just days after Paige was brought here.  It was a tough time for all-Paige became sick, her milk dried up and despite all our and the vets' efforts many of Rachel's siblings didn't make it. 

Rachel is a happy piglet though, oblivious of her tough beginnings.  She loves to drive JD, Ben and Amelia crazy on a daily basis and has completely upset their quiet way of life.  JD, however, secretly likes Rachel, and who can blame him-she's such a cutie!  Rachel has learned all the lessons a pig needs in life-how to put your dirty snoutie in the water bucket right after it's filled, how to jump on the backs of those older to you to annoy them, that it pays off to flop over on your side and block the gate because it leads to belly rubs, and other mischeivous endeavors. 

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL!  There will be an official celebration including treats for all when her daddy, Matt, comes to visit over the weekend.  Stay tuned for pigtures!

The phone hasn't stopped ringing.  Angel blessings sent from near and far.  We had no idea Bette had fans all across the country!  We are so touched by all your calls, emails, Facebook postings and guestbook postings.  The stories and memories you have shared with us are immensely healing and have helped us giggle through our tears.  Please keep the stories and memories coming.

Today we said goodbye to Bette Davis. 

We have been cognizant since she became ill in November that she may be leaving us.  Since November 15th she has been on a regimen of care per Dr. Ennis' instructions to treat arthritis, then pneumonia.  Audrey evaluated her condition on a daily basis, watching for signs of deterioration of Bette's quality of life.  Bette just finished a round of shots to treat her pneumonia and today began hemorrhaging heavily.  Dr. Ennis responded to the farm and confirmed that Bette could not be saved.  We are thankful to Dr. Ennis for assisting Bette over the Rainbow Bridge in a compassionate and painless way.

There will be many tears for some time to come as we adjust to Bette's absence in the pasture. 

Love and kisses Bette darling.