Dorset lifestyle
Chewing their way through the pear twigs cut from the top of the tree, they usually have ten or twelve to share at the end of the day, or a handful of goosegrass each. They like thistles as well, but there’s a very prickly variety they don’t like that’s taken over the mound in the Small Paddock, so have started to dig those out. Rain overnight and a cloudy day with a very cold wind, lit the woodburner.
Saved by public appeal, a barn that’s next to the trailway running from Sturminster Newton to Blandford, this used to be the railway line, now it’s a cycle route. The barn owl was out and about in the field behind. Found four thistles large enough for the donkeys to eat and the goose grass is growing steadily so should be ready to pull in a couple of weeks. Levelled the mole hills, used the excess soil to fill in the gouges left by the donkeys when they ran round the paddock. Collected a load of rubble for the driveway. A very windy mild day with some sunshine and the occasional shower.
William and Toby love them and they’ve closed their eyes to savour this delicious treat. Fortunately, thistles grow in the meadow strip and could be available all year round, perhaps I should plant some in pots and move them into the greenhouse just to make sure. Started to dismantle the temporary sheep shelter, Walter started to nibble at the waterproof cover when it was on the ground, luckily he couldn’t reach it when it was on the roof. The cats brought a mouse into the dining room, managed to trap it and release it outside. A cool, misty then sunny day with light winds and a lovely sunset.
Donkeys love thistles, and would eat them all day if they could. Lots growing in the garden so no shortage of supply. The sheep were not impressed by all the noisy chomping so wandered away. Interesting end to the donkey day when they walked through the workshop, past the pile of straw bales and into the long grass. They didn’t go far and were soon coaxed back with more thistles and donkey biscuits. Warm day with more cloud, it may rain tomorrow. Donkey poo bags have gone from outside the front gate so will need to restock.
