HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Our Blessed Homestead is a growing family farm with 21 goats full of personality. Vincent Van Goat, Amelia Earhart, Turkey, Olive and Peach are among the herd that are cared for by goat enthusiast Heather Curtis.
“They’re kind of like Pringles, once you have one you can’t stop,” said Curtis.
While the goats are unbothered by the cold weather and snow, the thing they have to look forward to every winter is Christmas trees. Every year, Heather accepts donations of untreated, real pine Christmas trees to give to the goats. Within seconds of tossing the tree in front of the goats, they go to work tearing it to shreds. In moderation, the pine needles contain a natural dewormer for the goats and is a perfect seasonal treat.
The self-taught homesteader has been learning the ropes of raising goats and chickens for years. A lot of research combined with her husband’s fence-building skills have slowly turned their backyard into a goat haven. Their kids are also part of the operation, helping out when needed.
Curtis said it’s important to cap the number of goats they keep so she can give them the individual attention they deserve. The majority of the goats were bottle-fed by the family and are very social animals.
“I can’t do it by myself, there’s no way. It’s my crazy passion … but it takes more than just me,” said Curtis when explaining how supportive her family has been. “This is my pride and joy. These are my babies.”
The milk from the goats is used to make soaps and lotion that are sold locally at Respawn Coffee Company. They also use their baby goats for their popular goat yoga classes held during the summer. People interested in donating their untreated Christmas trees can contact Curtis through the Our Blessed Homestead Facebook page.
Video by Wesley Irvin/Christian County Now