Relationships

We have very bonded relationships to our animals, there's no doubt.  Though we have a bond with them, they have an even greater bond to each other.

Part of that bonding lies in the fact that many of our animals are siblings.  MaryAnn and Ginger are sisters.

Faith and Hope are sisters.

Daphne and Chloe are half sisters, as well.

Red and Ollie are half-brothers.

Scarlet and Donnie are siblings, too.

I love the idea that these animals get to live out their lives with another to whom they are so closely bonded.

I have learned through my years with my animals just how important those relationships are.  Animals, like humans need these connections, I believe.

What never ceases to amaze me are the inter-species relationships that happen every day.  There's recognition and comfort in each other's company - despite their obvious differences.  And that, in itself, makes for such a sweet, loving world. 

Every morning, the cats greet us at the barn, and this Bea (Bea Fun) always seeks out Annie - rubbing herself against Annie's side as if she's truly happy to see her.

And then there's Moll - who love her pigs - her favorite pastime is doing cat scans.

Years ago, when the pigs were just babes, our Maddie (Newfoundland) mothered those two piglets as if they were her own.  It was truly the sweetest thing ever.

She retained that closeness with the pigs until the day she passed.

I truly don't believe I am anthropomorphizing when I say that animals feel love.  I've witnessed it often.  I've also witnessed the mourning that animals go through when one of their family passes.  Although they seem to accommodate death more easily than we humans do - there is no doubt in my mind that they feel loss and sadness.  But, animals are also matter-of-fact in accepting their losses, and quickly move on.

These years spent on the farm in the company of all of these souls has taught me so much.  My life is better because of their influence.  They have been the very best role models. (most of the time!)

I feel so grateful, daily, for the opportunity to share this life with these wonderful souls!