Deep in the heart of Texas, down a country road, is the 100-year-old house that
we call home. It's nestled among towering oak and hickory trees and a good-sized
vegetable garden. Nearby, Boer and Nubian goats romp and play, the bells around
their necks peel out the music of activity, blending with the country or gospel
music drifting from the house. Amid the small herd you will find John Smith and
Bridget. A short distance away in the corner of the goat barn, Lady is tending
to her first litter of puppies -- three fat and sassy white balls of fur. These
dogs are Great Pyrenees and are companions to, and protectors of, the goatherd.
In the field, nannies, kids, billys and dogs all wander about freely on 5 acres.
It's not unusual to find John Smith standing neck deep in the claw foot bathtub
that serves as the water trough!
Hanging in the oak tree between the garden and the goat pens is an antique swing.
It's the perfect spot for rest or reflection. The clownish baby goats provide
unbridled entertainment just across the fence. Bottle-fed newborn goats are a
year round obsession -- rescued from the weekly livestock auction. They are
loved and nurtured with passion until they can join the herd. Last year, a goat
from our herd was named Grand Champion of a local competition.
The house area is off-limits to the goats to ensure the humans get some of the
garden and the goats get none of the vibrant flowers. There's a memorial garden
to loved ones passed on and the Moonflowers there will make you sure you know
what heaven smells like.
Homemade wine is made in the kitchen from grapes gathered from vines that grow
wild. Other times we use figs, peaches or other fruits -- gifts from neighbors
and friends. Michael makes his special version of salsa with goodies from our
garden -- pretty HOT stuff! He smiles ear to ear when sharing it at outdoor
cookouts and gatherings of friends.
Several times a year our family retreats to Renaissance fairs, stepping back in
time a few hundred years to enjoy the festivities in full costume. Other
get-a-ways are done on the back of a vintage Harley Davidson.
I have been creating jewelry for sale to the public for 6 years. I brought
years of experience from the wholesale jewelry markets to Gem and I.
I spend hours compiling pieces that become beautiful samples of what was
first only in my imagination. Specialty theme pieces are a fun spin to the
basic line. Although an artist, I have the willingness to create custom
pieces for people who have a vision of their own. Recently I designed the
millennium pin for the IBGA National Boer Goat Show and it was featured on the
front cover of their monthly publication for July 2000!
From county fairs and charity auctions to cyber space -- my offerings are now
available to the widest range of customers. You are invited to stroll through
the website and visit the various specialty sections. Thanks very much for
stopping by and be sure to drop a note anytime. We look forward to hearing from you!
Belva and Michael
| 
