There are certainly many reason I'm obsessed with my chickens, but for time sake, I'll share 3 of them with you so not to overwhelm anyone with too much chicken data. I could talk about it all day. Most people wouldn't.
1) I check my chickens each morning and night to make sure everyone is okay and accounted for. The last 4-5 months have been trying times for chicken losses at the Graves Farm. Now, I account for them in the mornings and at bedtime. Between predators, illnesses, and natural causes our chicken losses have been surprising and unexpected. The dust is settling, and it looks like life is back on an even-keel for our flock. I still check them regularly because I want to know they are okay. And remarkably, I'm pleasantly surprised each time I find everyone is okay. I didn't used to be so astonished at the fact that all the chickens were safe and sound each day. I took it for granted for far too long. Now, I am extremely aware that anything could happen to them on any given day. It's a new condition I'll name: Hypersensitive Chicken Checking. Are they okay? What if I find something bad has occurred in the night? Will I cry if I find something has happened to one of them? How did we go so long without any chicken losses, and now I have these unsettled feelings about my chicken's safety? So many unanswered questions. It's all part of this new condition I have. I recently asked David if he felt this same way. His blank stare told of his answer. I have HCC. I don't think he does.
2) I have three separate chicken spaces. Over time, and with experience, I've learned that some chickens are not meant to free range. They are walking treats for hawks. I've learned that some chicken breeds just don't belong together in a flock. The torment by the head hen does not let up. I've learned that getting too many unusual and fancy breeds brings about the need for unusual and fancy coop configurations.
(a) My first, and original chicken coop setup is for the mainstream hens. Regular-sized, hearty, and free ranging hens who can stand the test of time on their own. These are the ladies who have their coop, nesting areas and roosting spots in the barn. They have all the freedom to come and go, in and out of the barn on their own, anytime they want. They have the greatest privileges of all because they are bigger, more self-aware of their surroundings, and are older. They put themselves to bed at night, and get up when they are ready. It's a great life. Total, we have 15 of these now! Ruby and Ginger are the head hens. Then there's Pebbles, Pepper, Butter, Sunshine, Storm, Cloud, Peaches (we lost Cream to a predator), Goldie, Cali, GiGi, ShayShay (Shadow), PB & J. These ladies are all in different stages of egg laying, some laying more than others.
(b) In a different location than the barn, closer to the house is a fenced area with an overhead protection for two Polish girls, Tinkerbelle and Thumbalina. TnT for short. They have a coop of their own, and are protected by a fence and overhang because they are a chicken breed with top hats. They have fancy feathers on their heads. It's like a poof-ball sitting right on top of their heads. This in itself puts them at a disadvantage to see the hawks overhead if they were to free range. Therefore, they have plenty of room to roam, while being fenced and protected for their own good. They want to free range with the others, and we even tried it. But Ruby was incessant about chasing them and hurting them. So between those two reasons, we deemed it best to have them in an area of their own. We call it The Big Top. TnT both lay the cutest, smallest white eggs I've ever seen.
And finally, (c) Adjacent to the Polish girls (see section b) is a similar set up of fencing and overhead protection for 3 sweetie pies named : Snowball, Veronica and Penny. They are two silkies and one bantam. The two silkies are light-colored and would also be hawk-bait if left unprotected. The bantam, Penny, is such a small chicken that you would think she was a bird. These girls have their own fenced area to roam, as well as their own coop. We call it The Little Big Top. All three of these sweeties are relatively new to us - and young. They are not egg layers just yet. They all look completely different yet make a wonderful flock of three, inside their designated area.
That makes 20 chickens. Did you even know we had 20 chickens? It's new to us as well. I'll explain.
3) Time for more chickens? Yes, we were at a point in time where we were ready to add to our flock(s). How does one go about finding a good variety to choose from? Kara, who runs her own 'Phase One Farm' in Oklahoma, is my go-to for the best chicken selection I've seen. I found her on Craig's List, and keep going back to her for my chickens. Recently, when I asked David if he'd like to add to our flock, he surprised me by saying Yes. And off to Oklahoma we go. Out in the middle of nowhere, we arrive at this chicken paradise. Kara has built every chicken coop she has, by herself. She has built small buildings that are similar to a shed, as her coops. There's the General Store, the Mercantile building, the Courthouse, the Drug Store, etc. She has literally built a Western-themed Chicken Land. She has many chicken breeds of different ages which all run around free ranging, except for the small ones and baby chicks. They stay inside. She has several Emu's that guard them. I was informed these Emu's can kill with one kick. They scared me.
I digress. David and I are looking around, and had discussed prior to visiting that we might buy 3 or 4 at the most. It was David's turn to pick out the chickens. We walk around, from building to building to investigate this fabulous collection of chickens. She buys and sells regularly and always has a great new selection to pick from. Her chickens are healthy and very well adapted to being with other chickens. From our experience, they always blend in well, for the most part, with our flock. David is taking his job of picking out our new chickens very seriously. He likes this one, and that one, and another one over there. Before I know it, he's picked out 8 chickens! We have 12 back home, so it's almost like doubling our flock. Who knew. We drove away with 8 chickens in our two cages and were just as surprised with what just happened. You know what we did the whole way home? Named them.
I thought it was just me, but it isn't. There's other people who adore chickens. They know many things about chickens, and share their information. I'm a sponge and soak it all up. I think David is secretly afraid I will want him to build me a Western Town of chickens, too. I don't have a theme quite like that playing out in my head. With 20 chickens, I'm still trying to incorporate them all together and get them adjusted to each other. It takes time. I used to walk through this journey thinking "What will people think?" Now, I just walk this journey loving every minute of it. I've been that pink elephant in the vast grey elephant population off and on my whole life. I have found peace in it. I love being me, after all, if I'm not me, who will be?
I recently shared a story with my daughter, Lauren, from when I was in middle school. A young girl, like most middle-school girls, lost in life and figuring it all out. I was in the band, playing percussion and drums. I had a pet dove. Yep, a bird lover at a early age. (My first pet was a parakeet named Perry). I was a shy, skinny, red-headed girl. My mom came home one day with something for me. It was a t-shirt that said this on it: I march to the beat of a different drummer. My mom was onto something......
I am enough. You are enough.
Cyndi
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Sunday, June 17, 2018
How did it go?
The Celina Public Library Story-time at The Graves Farm happened a week ago Friday now. I've been meaning to talk about how it went. Overall, it went wonderfully. The ingredients were 1 cup of internal struggle/turmoil, 3 cups of organized chaos, along with sprinkles of sheer pleasure mixed in. Blend well, bake at a high barn temperature, and the outcome is many happy children chasing farm animals.
We begin by putting balloons on the mailbox out at the road. This helps people find us, and alert them that they are indeed not lost. The string of cars come down the gravel road (that leads to the house) like a facet with a slow drip. Consistent, nonstop and methodically, the cars pull in and park. Parents unload kids out of minivans like clown cars. They all migrate, hesitantly, to someone who can tell them what to do next. Lauren, Youth Services Librarian, and a young unaware teenage family friend are manning the gate to this wonderment, showing them the way towards the barn not hardly a stones throw away. Most have traveled from the Celina area out to Gunter for this "show" of sorts. Storytime, we call it, but it's much more than that.
As the adults and children file in, they gather and look around, while becoming more brave to interact with the animals that are around, slowly. David and I encourage them to pet the sheep, hold a chicken, or pet/feed the donkeys. Some of the barn cats do allow petting, and 2 out of our 3 dogs rather enjoy all this attention. Whisper, whose name fits her well, is not a fan of the myriad of people. She's one of our Great Pyrenees dogs who guards the property with her brother, Levi. Events with this many people are not something she enjoys. Levi is the one who soaks it all in - for the both of them. Then there's Little Maybe, our King Charles spaniel who devours every bit of attention she gets. Loving literally every minute of it. We should have named her Happy.
Gathering everyone and corralling them into the barn for the actual story time part is always an interesting endeavor. By now, everyone is settling into the environment, and ready to mix and mingle with the animals. We (David, Lauren and I) begin to set the tone for the start of it all. We lure them into the barn, and Lauren welcomes everyone, then introduces David and I as the hosts. We go directly into singing our first song, Rise and Shine, to welcome everyone and get them in a singing mood. Then, straight into Itsy Bitsy Spider. I've got my music Bose box with my karaoke tunes I bought off of iTunes, and we are starting this off right. Next, comes the first book. No Sleep for the Sheep. A farm book, of course. David had gotten a projector, and Lauren had scanned the pictures from the books so we could show it on the side of the barn, for those who couldn't see the book I was holding very well. This was followed by a peppy rendition of Old McDonald Had A Farm - using the animals all around us. The sheep, mind you, are Baaaaa-ing in the barn along with us, and the donkeys are standing close by, sticking their faces in to watch what is happening. The chickens are mingling amongst the children sitting, while Lauren and I are making a spectacle of ourselves singing and dancing. Some children are singing along, and going through the hand motions with us, while the others are staring at us as if they are watching a show. The Lauren and Cyndi show, who doesn't always know the words, singing loudly and off pitch, just dancing our hearts out. I'm having a blast!
Next up, another book, Duck On A Bike, and then back to the music. We end it all with the Chicken Dance. You know that one. The music of the Chicken Dance is an all time favorite. Often played at roller skating rinks, hokey wedding receptions and anywhere people may have drank too much and there's a DJ involved. And there I was, leading this hand quacking, arm flapping, clapping type of dance in a packed barn with children staring blankly up at me. Many participated, while others watched the crazy lady doing the Chicken Dance. It was great.
I then had a word vomit moment, and said, "Let's head out to feed the donkeys now!". I had carrots ready for all the children. You know the ones, the carrots that are finger foods, already cut about two inches long.....and look just like a finger to the donkeys. David shot me a look, like what the &%$#? I opened one side of the barn gate, and the flood of children with adults in tow, picked their chosen carrot and made a b-line toward the donkeys. David quickly made his way through the crowd of people in a haste to get to the donkeys and referee this activity. I'll summarize it by saying the donkeys ate well that morning, and all the children did indeed leave with all fingers intact.
But that's not the end. It never is. You know all that hesitance and reservation people had when they first arrived? It's gone now. And kids are everywhere, chasing chickens, and doing things kids do. We had set up a craft table for stamping farm animals on paper, and some kids were making their masterpieces. Other children were out in the pasture, running wildly about. It takes time, a lot of time, for everybody to leave. It's like this every time. Families would like to make a day of this. What they all don't realize, is this is actually our house, where we live. Many people think we are a business. People will ask, "Are you open to the public?" or "Which days are you open" or my favorite, "Do you take donations?'"
The joy of seeing the children - and their parents - enjoying all that is The Graves Farm is priceless. In some ways, I don't want the people to leave. I want them to stay and enjoy it. On the other hand, I know it's best for them to leave while no one is hurt. There's wasps, large animals, and danger lurking for unsuspecting children. There's so many great things for the children to do here, but it's the 'danger' part that brings the struggle and turmoil to David and I. We had even considered having a waiver signed before entering. The liability for such an event, with close to 100 people, could be devastating.
Yet again, we are fortunate that everyone left safe and sound. The animals were exhausted. They are not used to being chased by small children, or being entertained by them for so long, either. I think the animals are just as curious as the children are, about each other. It's a wonderful opportunity for all involved.
As that particular day drew to a close, David and I were happy, relieved and extremely satisfied. A lot of hard work and planning went into it, and was worth every bead of sweat. Everyone left as they came. Children were exposed to things they may not normally not see up close.
We have a "small shop" here on The Graves Farm. Nothing fancy. A hobby farm, of sorts. Full of much love, gentleness and freedom. The 12 year old self inside me never tires of it. Neither does the 54 year old self.
My favorite part? Being a child that day, too. Singing and dancing as if no one was watching. Yet, they all were, and I just kept singing my song. Having the time of my life. Children bring this out in us. Carefree and no judgment.
Love that,
Cyndi
We begin by putting balloons on the mailbox out at the road. This helps people find us, and alert them that they are indeed not lost. The string of cars come down the gravel road (that leads to the house) like a facet with a slow drip. Consistent, nonstop and methodically, the cars pull in and park. Parents unload kids out of minivans like clown cars. They all migrate, hesitantly, to someone who can tell them what to do next. Lauren, Youth Services Librarian, and a young unaware teenage family friend are manning the gate to this wonderment, showing them the way towards the barn not hardly a stones throw away. Most have traveled from the Celina area out to Gunter for this "show" of sorts. Storytime, we call it, but it's much more than that.
As the adults and children file in, they gather and look around, while becoming more brave to interact with the animals that are around, slowly. David and I encourage them to pet the sheep, hold a chicken, or pet/feed the donkeys. Some of the barn cats do allow petting, and 2 out of our 3 dogs rather enjoy all this attention. Whisper, whose name fits her well, is not a fan of the myriad of people. She's one of our Great Pyrenees dogs who guards the property with her brother, Levi. Events with this many people are not something she enjoys. Levi is the one who soaks it all in - for the both of them. Then there's Little Maybe, our King Charles spaniel who devours every bit of attention she gets. Loving literally every minute of it. We should have named her Happy.
Gathering everyone and corralling them into the barn for the actual story time part is always an interesting endeavor. By now, everyone is settling into the environment, and ready to mix and mingle with the animals. We (David, Lauren and I) begin to set the tone for the start of it all. We lure them into the barn, and Lauren welcomes everyone, then introduces David and I as the hosts. We go directly into singing our first song, Rise and Shine, to welcome everyone and get them in a singing mood. Then, straight into Itsy Bitsy Spider. I've got my music Bose box with my karaoke tunes I bought off of iTunes, and we are starting this off right. Next, comes the first book. No Sleep for the Sheep. A farm book, of course. David had gotten a projector, and Lauren had scanned the pictures from the books so we could show it on the side of the barn, for those who couldn't see the book I was holding very well. This was followed by a peppy rendition of Old McDonald Had A Farm - using the animals all around us. The sheep, mind you, are Baaaaa-ing in the barn along with us, and the donkeys are standing close by, sticking their faces in to watch what is happening. The chickens are mingling amongst the children sitting, while Lauren and I are making a spectacle of ourselves singing and dancing. Some children are singing along, and going through the hand motions with us, while the others are staring at us as if they are watching a show. The Lauren and Cyndi show, who doesn't always know the words, singing loudly and off pitch, just dancing our hearts out. I'm having a blast!
Next up, another book, Duck On A Bike, and then back to the music. We end it all with the Chicken Dance. You know that one. The music of the Chicken Dance is an all time favorite. Often played at roller skating rinks, hokey wedding receptions and anywhere people may have drank too much and there's a DJ involved. And there I was, leading this hand quacking, arm flapping, clapping type of dance in a packed barn with children staring blankly up at me. Many participated, while others watched the crazy lady doing the Chicken Dance. It was great.
I then had a word vomit moment, and said, "Let's head out to feed the donkeys now!". I had carrots ready for all the children. You know the ones, the carrots that are finger foods, already cut about two inches long.....and look just like a finger to the donkeys. David shot me a look, like what the &%$#? I opened one side of the barn gate, and the flood of children with adults in tow, picked their chosen carrot and made a b-line toward the donkeys. David quickly made his way through the crowd of people in a haste to get to the donkeys and referee this activity. I'll summarize it by saying the donkeys ate well that morning, and all the children did indeed leave with all fingers intact.
But that's not the end. It never is. You know all that hesitance and reservation people had when they first arrived? It's gone now. And kids are everywhere, chasing chickens, and doing things kids do. We had set up a craft table for stamping farm animals on paper, and some kids were making their masterpieces. Other children were out in the pasture, running wildly about. It takes time, a lot of time, for everybody to leave. It's like this every time. Families would like to make a day of this. What they all don't realize, is this is actually our house, where we live. Many people think we are a business. People will ask, "Are you open to the public?" or "Which days are you open" or my favorite, "Do you take donations?'"
The joy of seeing the children - and their parents - enjoying all that is The Graves Farm is priceless. In some ways, I don't want the people to leave. I want them to stay and enjoy it. On the other hand, I know it's best for them to leave while no one is hurt. There's wasps, large animals, and danger lurking for unsuspecting children. There's so many great things for the children to do here, but it's the 'danger' part that brings the struggle and turmoil to David and I. We had even considered having a waiver signed before entering. The liability for such an event, with close to 100 people, could be devastating.
Yet again, we are fortunate that everyone left safe and sound. The animals were exhausted. They are not used to being chased by small children, or being entertained by them for so long, either. I think the animals are just as curious as the children are, about each other. It's a wonderful opportunity for all involved.
As that particular day drew to a close, David and I were happy, relieved and extremely satisfied. A lot of hard work and planning went into it, and was worth every bead of sweat. Everyone left as they came. Children were exposed to things they may not normally not see up close.
We have a "small shop" here on The Graves Farm. Nothing fancy. A hobby farm, of sorts. Full of much love, gentleness and freedom. The 12 year old self inside me never tires of it. Neither does the 54 year old self.
My favorite part? Being a child that day, too. Singing and dancing as if no one was watching. Yet, they all were, and I just kept singing my song. Having the time of my life. Children bring this out in us. Carefree and no judgment.
Love that,
Cyndi
Saturday, June 9, 2018
Seasons of my life
I live at the corner of No-Time-to-Spare and Go-Man-Go. It's a place where my soul resides. A place I belong, feel good about, and enjoy residing. While my future imaginary house of Don't-Save-Anything has not come to fruition, I enjoy this corner where I currently live.
No time to spare is something my Nanny used to say, long ago. Not all the time, but sometimes when time was of the essence. Now, I enjoy living my life as if there's no time to spare. Because there's not.
No time in my life is spare time. Time is all I really have, with family, friends and with my farm and animals. I enjoy many other things as well, that occupy my time. Biking, running, swimming, yoga, gardening, blogging, surfing the net, emailing, working, walking, daydreaming, mowing, driving, shopping at the feed store, and don't forget sleep. I could go on and on, as we all could. Talking/connecting with my husband, and running/being with my daughter are two of my favorite pastimes. None of this is spare time. I have none to spare. I'm a time-sponge. I want to soak it all up.
I look at it as if I have a limited amount of time on earth. The only thing certain in life is death. Everything in between is Go Big or Go Home. Yes, I do like going home. And sometimes I'll take a nap when I get there. But time is my most valuable commodity. I can get more money. But I can't get more time. I desire to use it well.
Recently, I made a change in my work environment. A change of seasons, if you will. It was time, and I knew it. I have found over time, that in my life I've fallen into being who others wanted me to be. I followed the natural course of things. And great things happened. Mostly. But over time, I realized they were not necessarily great for me. They were maybe someone else's great things, and it seemed as if I was taking up the space that was meant for them and not standing in my own space. Like wearing someone else's shoes.
Walking away from what others told me I should do, and walk my own path has brought me into a new season in my life. I've enjoyed all seasons I've lived. All of them, yet some more than others. Now, my secret soul has guided me toward a understanding of deciding how I want to live. Work-wise and in my personal life. Just because a wide swath of people think one thing, does not mean it's what I should think. Understanding my own spirit, my path in life and my desires has been a new way of thinking these past few years. I'm giving myself permission to fall into my own life. I have a set of loves, dreams and idiosyncrasies. Tapping into this part of me has allowed me to speak my truth about what I love and who I am. This is my life. It doesn't matter what's lovely for others, what matters is does it fit me. I'm all about each person speaking their truth, and walking their own path.
I've been a work-in-progress in this chapter of the Book of Cyndi the last 5 or so years, and they have been growing ones for me. Walking away from what others think I should do, and live life doing what I desire to do. It's no longer about Most-this, and Most-that like in the high school yearbook days. It's about having the privilege to make my life. And re-make it. Which I have done multiple times. It has been frowned upon by people around me. Yet, I keep owning myself, and staying true. In my mind, I have a window that's open, with SO many things I desire to do, calling me. It's endless. I love it that there's more things in life I want to do and not enough time to do it all. It's like I get to live several lives, all in one lifetime. And I get to decide. If only I was more confident earlier in life to speak my truth. Be my authentic self. God has blessed me with this ability now, and I am most grateful. I'm at the edge of it all, at the beginning of owning my life. What I choose to do and not have to feel like I need to justify my actions. I'm just going to be me. Live my little life. And in my little life, I have no time to spare. Busy, busy. I don't want to wear other people's shoes. I want to walk in my own shoes. And being able to acknowledge that, was my first step, only a few years back. And what a huge step it was. It was like I woke up and decided not to live for what others expected and wanted for me, but to shed all that weight my soul carried and become simply me. I was there, waiting my arrival like a baby bird from an egg. I hatched and there I was. Ready for the world.
In this season of my life, my heart overflows with gratitude. Words that I'm choosing for this season are passion, love, authenticity, grace and spirit. I want to soak up every minute. Being me. Loving myself for who God has made.
The world will tell you how to live life if you let it. Don't let it. Living at the corner of Go, Man, Go and No-Time-To-Spare, there's so much opportunity awaiting me. My soul is screaming out: Be you. Let yourself live the life you desire. Sing your song. While I've struggled to find my footing at times, I'm thankful for solid ground. I continue to grow my spirit, and nurture myself. I know it will take a lifetime for me to learn and grow. Two steps forward, one step back, as going backwards is often the best way to move forward. That took me awhile to figure out.
And when my monkey mind tries to take hold of me, I've learned to use silence and solitude to teach me things I know, in ways I never thought to know them. Truly alone, I can listen to my life. Silence can be my anchor, along with moving meditation that assists me in quieting my mind and calming the waves that life brings. Feeling calm when life is rocky and finding peace through it all is a gift. This ability has freed me to truly live. Picking and choosing what serves me. Singing my own song.
"You wander from room to room hunting for the diamond necklace that is already around your neck"
-Rumi
Thank goodness I found it,
Cyndi
No time to spare is something my Nanny used to say, long ago. Not all the time, but sometimes when time was of the essence. Now, I enjoy living my life as if there's no time to spare. Because there's not.
No time in my life is spare time. Time is all I really have, with family, friends and with my farm and animals. I enjoy many other things as well, that occupy my time. Biking, running, swimming, yoga, gardening, blogging, surfing the net, emailing, working, walking, daydreaming, mowing, driving, shopping at the feed store, and don't forget sleep. I could go on and on, as we all could. Talking/connecting with my husband, and running/being with my daughter are two of my favorite pastimes. None of this is spare time. I have none to spare. I'm a time-sponge. I want to soak it all up.
I look at it as if I have a limited amount of time on earth. The only thing certain in life is death. Everything in between is Go Big or Go Home. Yes, I do like going home. And sometimes I'll take a nap when I get there. But time is my most valuable commodity. I can get more money. But I can't get more time. I desire to use it well.
Recently, I made a change in my work environment. A change of seasons, if you will. It was time, and I knew it. I have found over time, that in my life I've fallen into being who others wanted me to be. I followed the natural course of things. And great things happened. Mostly. But over time, I realized they were not necessarily great for me. They were maybe someone else's great things, and it seemed as if I was taking up the space that was meant for them and not standing in my own space. Like wearing someone else's shoes.
Walking away from what others told me I should do, and walk my own path has brought me into a new season in my life. I've enjoyed all seasons I've lived. All of them, yet some more than others. Now, my secret soul has guided me toward a understanding of deciding how I want to live. Work-wise and in my personal life. Just because a wide swath of people think one thing, does not mean it's what I should think. Understanding my own spirit, my path in life and my desires has been a new way of thinking these past few years. I'm giving myself permission to fall into my own life. I have a set of loves, dreams and idiosyncrasies. Tapping into this part of me has allowed me to speak my truth about what I love and who I am. This is my life. It doesn't matter what's lovely for others, what matters is does it fit me. I'm all about each person speaking their truth, and walking their own path.
I've been a work-in-progress in this chapter of the Book of Cyndi the last 5 or so years, and they have been growing ones for me. Walking away from what others think I should do, and live life doing what I desire to do. It's no longer about Most-this, and Most-that like in the high school yearbook days. It's about having the privilege to make my life. And re-make it. Which I have done multiple times. It has been frowned upon by people around me. Yet, I keep owning myself, and staying true. In my mind, I have a window that's open, with SO many things I desire to do, calling me. It's endless. I love it that there's more things in life I want to do and not enough time to do it all. It's like I get to live several lives, all in one lifetime. And I get to decide. If only I was more confident earlier in life to speak my truth. Be my authentic self. God has blessed me with this ability now, and I am most grateful. I'm at the edge of it all, at the beginning of owning my life. What I choose to do and not have to feel like I need to justify my actions. I'm just going to be me. Live my little life. And in my little life, I have no time to spare. Busy, busy. I don't want to wear other people's shoes. I want to walk in my own shoes. And being able to acknowledge that, was my first step, only a few years back. And what a huge step it was. It was like I woke up and decided not to live for what others expected and wanted for me, but to shed all that weight my soul carried and become simply me. I was there, waiting my arrival like a baby bird from an egg. I hatched and there I was. Ready for the world.
In this season of my life, my heart overflows with gratitude. Words that I'm choosing for this season are passion, love, authenticity, grace and spirit. I want to soak up every minute. Being me. Loving myself for who God has made.
The world will tell you how to live life if you let it. Don't let it. Living at the corner of Go, Man, Go and No-Time-To-Spare, there's so much opportunity awaiting me. My soul is screaming out: Be you. Let yourself live the life you desire. Sing your song. While I've struggled to find my footing at times, I'm thankful for solid ground. I continue to grow my spirit, and nurture myself. I know it will take a lifetime for me to learn and grow. Two steps forward, one step back, as going backwards is often the best way to move forward. That took me awhile to figure out.
And when my monkey mind tries to take hold of me, I've learned to use silence and solitude to teach me things I know, in ways I never thought to know them. Truly alone, I can listen to my life. Silence can be my anchor, along with moving meditation that assists me in quieting my mind and calming the waves that life brings. Feeling calm when life is rocky and finding peace through it all is a gift. This ability has freed me to truly live. Picking and choosing what serves me. Singing my own song.
"You wander from room to room hunting for the diamond necklace that is already around your neck"
-Rumi
Thank goodness I found it,
Cyndi
Sunday, June 3, 2018
FriDay FarmDay
As I sit at my desk and listen to the wind howl, I think about what the animals must think. It's a early, warm morning, 75 degrees and 25+ mph winds. It's different here, as the pasture out front gives the wind ample opportunity to pick up speed so that when it gets to the house and barn, it's strong. Real strong.
My first thought is that it feels good, the wind. But does the excessive wind scare them? Does it make things sound different and unusual? Because it does to me. I know it will be blowing the chicken's feathers around later in the morning, as they move about free-ranging. I will hear it making whipping noises as it glides through the barn when I check the Barn Cam, while I am away from the house. During these warm months, all door and windows are open in the barn, which then acts as a tunnel for this heavy air gallivanting along it's journey. Things that usually do not move, get blown around in this fresh gale. The donkeys will stand behind the barn - or the house - to not be in the direct gust. I'm pretty sure that whether it's cold or hot, the donkeys do not care for the wind.
The sheep don't seem to mind at all, nor the Great Pyrenees. As they lay peacefully, I see them through the window in the moonlight. It's this quiet of the morning, listening to the wind, that I think a lot. I think about how I'll leave for work, and everybody here moves about their day. Do they think about time? Or is everything instinctual for them? I often think about them randomly during the day. I wonder if Junie B is feeling better, she seems to be sneezing lately. Is Belle too hot? The flies are bad this year and bothering the donkeys. I need to get something for them. These random thoughts flutter into my mind during the day (usually at work), then I resolve them in my head temporarily, and move forward.
It's during these thought processes that I begin to wonder if any of our animals are self aware? If I were to have any of the farm animals look in a mirror, would they recognize themselves? The mirror recognition test is used as a measure of self awareness. So it seems, the pig is able to do so. But other farm animals, while smart, are not self aware. Chickens and sheep rank high in intelligence, despite what people might think. A study I read even suggest they may be smarter than a dog. Chickens can learn to do puzzles and play games. Chickens can show object permanence, meaning they have the ability to understand an object exists, even when they can't see it. Baby chicks develop this around Day 2 while an infant takes about 6 months to master this. And sheep, oh my, many people think sheep are not smart. I can tell you first hand, that I was surprised at how smart and crafty they are. They can recognize all kinds of faces, and know all the faces in their flock. They are aware when one is missing. They can recognize who cares for them, who guards them, and can remember for years if you have made them mad. I've read that both donkeys and sheep can hold a grudge when they have been treated poorly. They remember those things well.
The sheer enthusiasm my farm animals have for life always amazes me. The chickens are happy and living their little lives free ranging and laying eggs. The sheep are busy grazing, chewing their cud under a tree, or baaaaa-ing to have a treat of grain. The donkeys see me drive up, and walked to the fence to say hello. They just want to interact directly with me. The cats and dogs all love to be loved and acknowledged. It's always my pleasure to reach to them, scratch and tell them how much I love them. I know they like hearing it. We all need to be told how much we are loved.
Speaking of petting and loving on the animals, we will have the pleasure of having The Graves Farm Story Time again this coming Friday. The Celina Public Library will host their story time in our barn, and there will be children everywhere. Speaking of self awareness, having multitudes of care-free and spontaneous children around farm animals is always exciting. When everyone leaves each time, I'm always happy when no one is hurt. Between the pure abandonment of children and the unpredictability of farm animals, it's a recipe for the unknown to occur. It's during this time though, that I am able to read stories and allow them to connect with the animals. Stories like No Sleep For The Sheep and Duck On A Bike are meant to help instill a lifelong love for animals - and reading. To illustrate that animals are like us in many ways. Desiring love, recognition, care and human touch. The children have the opportunity to pet the animals, and the animals love every minute of it. It's as much a treat for the animals as it is for the children.
On Friday, if the wind howls through the barn that morning, it will be a bonus. It's an opportunity for the children to feel what the animals feel, to see how they live, to pet them and love them. It's a privilege to be able to share this. And as always, I'll update you on how it goes.
Keep your fingers crossed that all children leave with all their fingers. That's my goal.
Friday Farmday is just around the corner,
Cyndi
My first thought is that it feels good, the wind. But does the excessive wind scare them? Does it make things sound different and unusual? Because it does to me. I know it will be blowing the chicken's feathers around later in the morning, as they move about free-ranging. I will hear it making whipping noises as it glides through the barn when I check the Barn Cam, while I am away from the house. During these warm months, all door and windows are open in the barn, which then acts as a tunnel for this heavy air gallivanting along it's journey. Things that usually do not move, get blown around in this fresh gale. The donkeys will stand behind the barn - or the house - to not be in the direct gust. I'm pretty sure that whether it's cold or hot, the donkeys do not care for the wind.
The sheep don't seem to mind at all, nor the Great Pyrenees. As they lay peacefully, I see them through the window in the moonlight. It's this quiet of the morning, listening to the wind, that I think a lot. I think about how I'll leave for work, and everybody here moves about their day. Do they think about time? Or is everything instinctual for them? I often think about them randomly during the day. I wonder if Junie B is feeling better, she seems to be sneezing lately. Is Belle too hot? The flies are bad this year and bothering the donkeys. I need to get something for them. These random thoughts flutter into my mind during the day (usually at work), then I resolve them in my head temporarily, and move forward.
It's during these thought processes that I begin to wonder if any of our animals are self aware? If I were to have any of the farm animals look in a mirror, would they recognize themselves? The mirror recognition test is used as a measure of self awareness. So it seems, the pig is able to do so. But other farm animals, while smart, are not self aware. Chickens and sheep rank high in intelligence, despite what people might think. A study I read even suggest they may be smarter than a dog. Chickens can learn to do puzzles and play games. Chickens can show object permanence, meaning they have the ability to understand an object exists, even when they can't see it. Baby chicks develop this around Day 2 while an infant takes about 6 months to master this. And sheep, oh my, many people think sheep are not smart. I can tell you first hand, that I was surprised at how smart and crafty they are. They can recognize all kinds of faces, and know all the faces in their flock. They are aware when one is missing. They can recognize who cares for them, who guards them, and can remember for years if you have made them mad. I've read that both donkeys and sheep can hold a grudge when they have been treated poorly. They remember those things well.
The sheer enthusiasm my farm animals have for life always amazes me. The chickens are happy and living their little lives free ranging and laying eggs. The sheep are busy grazing, chewing their cud under a tree, or baaaaa-ing to have a treat of grain. The donkeys see me drive up, and walked to the fence to say hello. They just want to interact directly with me. The cats and dogs all love to be loved and acknowledged. It's always my pleasure to reach to them, scratch and tell them how much I love them. I know they like hearing it. We all need to be told how much we are loved.
Speaking of petting and loving on the animals, we will have the pleasure of having The Graves Farm Story Time again this coming Friday. The Celina Public Library will host their story time in our barn, and there will be children everywhere. Speaking of self awareness, having multitudes of care-free and spontaneous children around farm animals is always exciting. When everyone leaves each time, I'm always happy when no one is hurt. Between the pure abandonment of children and the unpredictability of farm animals, it's a recipe for the unknown to occur. It's during this time though, that I am able to read stories and allow them to connect with the animals. Stories like No Sleep For The Sheep and Duck On A Bike are meant to help instill a lifelong love for animals - and reading. To illustrate that animals are like us in many ways. Desiring love, recognition, care and human touch. The children have the opportunity to pet the animals, and the animals love every minute of it. It's as much a treat for the animals as it is for the children.
On Friday, if the wind howls through the barn that morning, it will be a bonus. It's an opportunity for the children to feel what the animals feel, to see how they live, to pet them and love them. It's a privilege to be able to share this. And as always, I'll update you on how it goes.
Keep your fingers crossed that all children leave with all their fingers. That's my goal.
Friday Farmday is just around the corner,
Cyndi
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