A few weeks ago, we brought Ju Ju home. She is originally from Oregon City, Oregon, so she has come a long way. We decided to let her tell you her story.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when they put me into this strange truck. It’s always a little scary when you have to travel and you don’t know where you’re going.

But you know, the ride wasn’t so bad. With all the straw, it was pretty comfortable, and I had plenty of room to stretch out. Plus the people in the cab kept talking to me, and they sounded pretty nice, so I was able to relax.

But the ride didn’t last. Eventually the truck stopped, and I wondered where we were.

When I got out of the truck, the first thing I saw was nice, fresh grass. I just had to swipe a bite. It tasted sooooo good, especially after a long trip. Sort of like what ice cream must taste like to humans, I suppose, though I never did get the appeal.

Once I finished my snack, Gerald took me for a walk. I could tell I was headed for the barn. I could see other goats up there, and I knew I would soon be joining them.

Honestly, it felt good to stretch my legs after the long trip.

First individual I met when I arrived? Not another goat, but a cat! I was a bit perplexed, but then she introduced herself.  It was the famous Miss Fluff Puff, the Super Cat Nanny! Everyone’s heard about her, even up in Oregon. I was so honored that she came out first thing to welcome me. 

I had heard she was really good with kids. So before they took me to my room for the night, I asked her if she’d be willing to step in next season, you know, if I should want to get a massage or have my hooves trimmed or something. She sounded like she’d be most helpful. I’m excited. I mean, imagine, having some help now and then! Unheard of for a mom.

That night, I settled down next to Clint. I have to say. He’s not at all bad to look at. 

I think I am going to like this new home!

Who knew that our very own Swan View Ranch goats would find their way into bestselling literature? (grin)

I really enjoy reading, and have had the pleasure of meeting some of the authors whose books I’ve loved. It’s always so interesting to meet someone when you admire their work. Sometimes they’re just as you imagined them, and often times they’re completely different, but either way, it’s a great experience.

Recently, I had the very good fortune of meeting bestselling romance author Joanne Kennedy. Her books are fun, sexy, and full of western character, so as a country girl myself, I find them a great escape.

When I heard Joanne was going to be nearby, I couldn’t wait to meet her. She expresses such a great sense of humor in her books, I felt sure she would be equally enjoyable in person.

Author Joanne Kennedy and I.

Well, this lady was all that and more.  Not only was she bright, beautiful, and extremely friendly, she was so humble and welcoming, and made me feel like we’d been old pals for years.

After I gushed about her books, the conversation moved to country things, like cowboys, farms, and family. Joanne mentioned she’d married a southern boy, and said his family held an annual “banana puddin’” contest every year.

Who could make the best one? She hasn’t thrown her own recipe in the ring yet, but found the contest unique and a ton of fun.

As she told the story, all I could think about was my beautiful doe Banana, and her baby this year—which we had named Banana Pudding.

“That’s my baby goat’s name!” I told her.

Joanne didn’t miss a step and jumped right in there, wanting to know all about my herd.

What a coincidence that she just happened to mention that story—and she had the perfect southern accent to describe the event: “The banana puddin’ contest!” she said with a perfect southern drawl.

Right then and there, “Banana Pudding” became “Banana Puddin’,” and this farm earned a little southern charm.

But Joanne had another surprise for me. She’d brought me a copy of her brand new book, How to Handle a Cowboy. I was thrilled!

Of course I had to ask her to sign it, so she did—memorializing forever my little Banana Puddin’ in the pages of romance literature.

I was so thrilled and will now register my baby as “Balance’s Banana Puddin’!”

Thanks Joanne. So wish I could say it like you do!

Oh, and I have to add—Joanne told me that if she ever buys a goat, it will be from Swan View Ranch. So there you have it. What other goat ranch is favored by a bestselling author? (huge smile)

For more about Joanne’s latest book, check out her website. These are heartfelt stories with handsome cowboys, family struggles, gentle romance and happy endings.