Runaway

As dusk fell yesterday, the wind and rain intensified. We huddled together under our shelter playing games, eating, drinking, and trying to forget the weather. Despite the storm, it was turning out to be a rather enjoyable evening. 

Unfortunately, Lucy, my favorite goat, did not agree. Now, I know some people might find it strange to have a favorite goat, but I assume those people have never had a goat. I raised her from a baby- her mother was killed by a pack of wild dogs when Lucy was newly born. She has a sweet disposition, is a bit timid, but very affectionate. 

Something must have spooked her, though, because in the midst of the storm as the light was fading, she somehow managed to slip her tether and run off! I was beside myself with worry, so Steve set out after her, cursing the entire way. 

It wasn’t long before he returned; soaking wet and covered head to toe in mud with a quivering Lucy, also covered in mud, in his arms. Despite the situation, we couldn’t help but laugh at the image he presented. He tied Lucy back up- still cursing her for being a stupid, irritating beast and I think there were a few curses in there for me loving her- where she could stay warm and dry, then cleaned himself up quickly. As he warmed himself by the fire, he explained what had happened. 

He caught up with Lucy on a rise. She was only too happy to come to him as she was terrified! As he began walking back to our camp, Lucy in his arms, he slipped in a patch of mud. The sudden jolt startled Lucy who started flailing, forcing Steve to further lose his balance and they both went down; skidding down the rise in the mud. When they finally came to a stop in a mud puddle, Lucy was still panicking, so Steve had to wrestle her down to prevent her from hurting him or herself. 

Next time she runs off, Steve said I will have to go after her myself. 

This morning, the sun is shining once again, but Steve is not feeling the best. Apparently the slide yesterday threw his back out. He’ll be fine, but we’ll stay put for a few extra days just to be sure. 

Lucy is in fine mood this morning, and had an extra cuddle for her hero.