Spring has a way of renewing everything — from the earth beneath our feet to the animals on the farm. For Kristin Kimball, lambing season is a time of rebirth, bringing both exhaustion and joy in equal measure. It’s a season of long hours, constant vigilance, and, most importantly, the pure joy of newborn lambs.
Kristin’s farm in the Champlain Valley of New York is a peaceful retreat, nestled between fields and hills. Over the last decade, her flock has grown from just a dozen sheep to more than 250. During lambing season, every morning feels like a race against time. Her day starts before the crack of dawn and stretches long into the night. Yet, despite the demanding nature of the work, Kristin wouldn’t have it any other way.
The barn is still shrouded in darkness when Kristin leads me inside. The cold air bites, and we can see our breath in the glow of our headlamps. It’s around 5:30 a.m. The sun hasn’t yet made its appearance, but Kristin is already on the move, her routine unbroken by the early hour.
“Look,” she says with a smile, pointing out an ewe with three tiny, fresh-born lambs. “Triplets! This is always exciting.”
Her voice, soft and reassuring, calms the new mother as she gently leads her and the babies into a private pen. It’s essential to make sure the mother can produce milk and that the lambs are doing okay. This is the quiet rhythm of lambing season — endless care and attention for every newborn, every ewe, and every moment of life that begins anew.
The Early Hours: A Day in the Life of a Shepherd
Lambing season demands more than just physical labor; it requires mental and emotional commitment. Kristin spends the majority of her days monitoring the sheep, ensuring that each new birth goes smoothly and that the flock remains healthy. It’s a far cry from the quieter months of the year, when the sheep can be left to graze and the work can be more laid-back.
“During lambing, you’re essentially on call 24/7,” Kristin explains. “I don’t sleep much. It’s a lot of checking in on the sheep, making sure everything is okay, and handling any surprises.”
And there are always surprises. Some ewes have difficulties giving birth, requiring human intervention. Others, like the triplet ewe, surprise her with more than expected. Every lambing season, there are challenges — some are expected, others are not. It’s a time of constant problem-solving and immediate action.
But for all the hard work and occasional stress, there’s an undeniable satisfaction in it. The sight of a healthy lamb standing for the first time, its wobbly legs supporting its tiny frame, is enough to fill anyone’s heart with joy. The work can be grueling, but the rewards are priceless.
The Heartwarming Side of Lambing
Spending time with baby lambs might sound simple, but it’s one of the best parts of lambing season. Kristin has always been a firm believer that there’s no better cure for a tough day than some time with the animals. She knows the value of a little laughter — and with so many playful lambs bouncing around, there’s never a shortage of it.
One evening, while sharing a meal with Kristin and her husband Mark, I admit I’ve been feeling a little low. Without missing a beat, Kristin offers the perfect antidote: “Come with me to the barn, and let’s spend some time with the babies.”
Within moments, we’re kneeling on the fresh hay in the barn, surrounded by curious little lambs. Their legs are long, their movements clumsy, but their energy is contagious. Imagine being cuddled by a pack of oversized puppies, all eager to climb over you and steal your attention. It’s hard not to smile in the midst of such unrestrained joy.
The soft bleats and the warmth of the barn seem to wash away any lingering stress. The lambs, in their innocent curiosity, create a simple, perfect moment — a reminder of the cycle of life and the beauty of spring.
A Growing Flock and a Family Tradition
As Kristin and Mark’s flock continues to grow, so does their understanding of the rhythms of farm life. It’s been a journey of learning, with its share of ups and downs. For Kristin, raising sheep has never just been about the animals themselves. It’s also about creating a sustainable lifestyle that aligns with her values of hard work, patience, and connection to the land.
“What I’ve learned over the years is how deeply connected you can become with the land and the animals,” she says. “Each season teaches you something new. It’s humbling and rewarding at the same time.”
The growth of their farm, from a small, modest operation to one that now boasts over 250 sheep, is a testament to their dedication and love for what they do. They’re not just farmers; they’re part of a larger, timeless tradition that goes back generations. The bond between human and animal, between the land and its caretakers, is something that Kristin and Mark cherish deeply.
The Importance of Lambing for the Farm
Lambing season is vital for their farm’s success. Not only is it a time of renewal for the flock, but it also plays a significant role in sustaining the farm’s economic health. Lamb sales, wool production, and dairy products are all essential to keeping the business running smoothly.
With every lamb born, the future of the farm becomes a little brighter. While there’s no guarantee of what each year will bring, Kristin and Mark are optimistic about the future. They’re not just working for today; they’re laying the groundwork for years to come, ensuring that the next generation of farmers will have a thriving community to inherit.
