I am enjoying reading about your families life on the farm.  I too am having surprises often.  Long ago when I was an IBM executive wife I didn't dream of the life I am living now.  I told my late hubby that I would like to live in a small town someday.  Because IBM is only ever located in large towns that opportunity was denied me.  When I told him that, he said:  "You wouldn't like it".  Often now, I gaze Heavenward and tell him he was wrong.  Between my daughter (she often sighs and says, "Middle child") and me we have over 20 chickens, 3 dogs, 8 ducks, 5 cats, 3 goats and baby goats on the way.  Such a different life.  I am blessed to have lived sharing the life of an executive and now being an ol' farmer woman.