From Chaos to Cuddles: A Day in the Life at Hartland Oaks

There’s a reason we don’t need an alarm clock at Hartland Oaks—our miniature donkeys have that job covered. Around here, the day begins not with a quiet cup of coffee, but with Diva demanding breakfast, chickens arguing over who gets the best nesting box, and a baby goat somehow managing to escape (again). Welcome to the beautifully chaotic rhythm of our farm life.

7:00 AM – Donkey Drama and Morning Mayhem

As the sun peeks over the pastures, the donkeys are already plotting. Diva, the undisputed queen of attitude, is first in line at the gate—ears perked, eyes locked, and bray loaded. Jewel, her daughter, is usually bouncing around somewhere nearby like she owns the place (and honestly, she might). Meanwhile, the goats are testing fence integrity, the pigs are snorting for snacks, and the chickens have decided that today’s laying spot is definitely inside the hay bin.

9:00 AM – Goat Yoga Prep or Bunny Snuggles?

Depending on the day, we’re either loading up the trailer for a mobile event (goat yoga waits for no one) or cleaning out bunny pens while dodging the occasional “faint” from our myotonic goats. Every animal has their own quirks—some follow us like puppies, some supervise with intense judgmental stares, and some (like our cow T-Bone) prefer to lay flat on their side, convincing visitors he’s dead. Don’t worry—he’s not. He’s just resting dramatically.

12:00 PM – Check Water Time, Round 2 (Yes, Again)

Watering animals at Hartland Oaks isn’t a chore—it’s a negotiation. The donkeys try to cut in line. The goats pretend they haven’t been fed. The chickens act like they're starving despite having full feeders. And the rabbits? They just sit there looking cute and innocent while plotting their next escape. We’re not saying the animals run the place, but… okay, they absolutely run the place.

5:00 PM – Tours, Tantrums & Tummy Rubs

Afternoon is prime time for visitors. Kids giggle while brushing bunnies. Adults rediscover joy while petting a cow. Mini pigs beg for belly rubs. And donkeys? Well, they insist on being the center of attention. Even Opie, our newest rescue donkey, has settled into the chaos with grace—soaking up affection and watching everything from his pen next to the goats, chickens, and our stoic Great Pyrenees.

7:00 PM – Sunset Snuggles and Nighttime Mischief

As the day winds down, we feed a second time and then attempt to tuck everyone in. “Attempt” being the key word. Some goats don’t do bedtime. Some chickens decide tonight is the night they sleep in the hay barn rafters. And the donkeys? They’re usually standing by the gate, wondering why we ever thought the day should end.

At Hartland Oaks, there’s never a dull moment. We’re a small farm with big heart—and a whole lot of personality. Every day brings a little chaos, a lot of work, and an endless supply of cuddles from the animals who call this place home. Whether you're visiting for goat yoga, ordering farm-fresh soap, or following our stories online, just know this: you're always welcome here. Dirt on your boots is optional, but joy in your heart is guaranteed.