Shepherds Weekend in Lansing (MI) is a great event that gets me re-focused after all the holiday hoopla. This year was no different. I think the best part was the keynote speaker, Dr. Temple Grandin. Dr. Grandin is an expert and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to livestock, animals behavior, and animal handling. During her presentations she emphasized thinking in pictures and sounds instead of language (verbally). That way we see the world as our sheep see the world, thereby understanding them better which leads to lower stress (on sheep and shepherd), easier handling, and better overall management. Last year I read two of her books after hearing an interview she gave. Then when I heard she was this year's keynote, I was thrilled.
Dr. Temple Grandin
Dr. Gandin and Pat Tirrell talking sheep.
Dr. Grandin talking with others about sheep
Dr. Grandin made herself available throughout the weekend talking to anyone who wanted to know more. The weekend also included vendors, displays and information by breed associations, a sock and mitten competition, and even two very, very cute eight week old Great Pyrenees puppies.
If you get a chance to attend Shepherds Weekend next year, it's worth it! Now, it's time to get stuff ready for lambing and for my new Angora goats that will be arriving soon!
Godspeed and Happy Landings!
Carol
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