Interesting, this thing called life. As we live it, it seems different than when we reflect back on it. I had begun my blog while on a medical mission to Honduras. I was on Day 2 when I last wrote. Then, everything changed. I was not able to fit in the time needed to blog, my email crashed while there, and my basic communications became difficult. I knew that documenting the day-to-day happenings was not going to be a pliable option while in Honduras, and I patiently waited to get back to the US. This delay was valuable to assist me in understanding what had actually occurred while on this medical mission.
I'll start with Monday - Friday. Each day, I awoke to coffee that was already made (for all the volunteers) by David. He would place my cup under the machine in a ready position for me to easily pour it, nearby he placed a plate, fork/knife with the peanut butter. This coffee machine was quite large, as what began as a nice gesture for me to have coffee early in the morning, soon became a way of life for the volunteers as well. The volunteers had been told we all would be responsible for the making of the coffee, and David, unknowingly, took that on. He would set his alarm at a unusually early time (like 3 am) to get up and make sure all the early birds heading to the surgery center (to work) had coffee. Everyone loved it, and not many people knew it was him that had made it. It was just "made" already. David laid low, and just kept his ritual to himself.
Each day, I was to be one of the OR Circulating Nurses at One World Surgery Center. We learned at Orientation on Sunday that there would be 3 OR's running each day. And that's just what I did each day, the same work that I do on any other given day in the US. This time, it is for the Honduran people. The "general" volunteers would sign up each evening, on a sign-up sheet after dinner, to pick a duty that suited them. There were things like making tortillas (hand-made, mind you), cooking breakfast or lunch for everyone, cleaning up the kitchen, taking the trash out at the surgery center (which had two parts to it, 1) take it from inside to outside, or 2) take it from outside straight up a steep incline to the place where they burn their trash), caring/visiting the children, working on the farm or in the garden, working in the surgery center either keeping the break room clean, cleaning the OR's between cases, sterile processing work, observing OR cases, and many other duties. The list is too long to give, but you get the idea. Those workers who were clinical had their assignments at the surgery center and were there until the day was done (in their department) and/or all cases were completed. Typically I would be there at least 10 hours in the OR, but on several occasions I was there longer. This is what we were there for, and it made sense to work all we could while we were there. What did David do, you ask? His Theme was: I'll do whatever nobody wants to do. And he did. He would wait til everyone else signed up, then tell Maria he'd do what is needed or left. He mostly ended up cooking breakfast and cleaning up each morning, then working on the farm (shoveling poop, as they are big on composting), or trash duty at the surgery center. There was one day he observed in the OR - which he rather enjoyed. It was a lot of physical work for everyone.
The best part was what we came for: to help the Honduran people. We had surgery cases scheduled each day intended to improve the life of the individual. Let's say that a man had a torn rotator cuff in his shoulder, and now he can't work - or a knee injury or a hernia or or or or. These are surgeries that are performed and can get them back to work, as well as feeling better and having a higher quality of life in general. These are people without access to health care in general due to many factors like financial assistance or location. One World Surgery Center provides the surgery free of charge. Although, there are many people (who have surgery) who ask what they can do in return. There are many options for them, if they desire, and many of them want to give back. So they can come back and perform work around the Ranch or some other barter option, if they so desire. This is not forced or encouraged, and is only if a patient wishes to do so in the future. This is important to note that the Honduran culture is giving and kind. Yes, the violence and crime is out of control, BUT the "regular" people are gracious and grateful. As I type this, I see their faces. They are quiet in the environment of a language they do not know. Even though we have many translators available to assist, they are surrounded by volunteers, mostly from the US. The Honduran people sit quietly, and wait patiently. They do not complain. At all. They are unsure of what is about to happen, what the process is, and how things will be after their surgery. They receive little if any healthcare in their life, so this is a big shock to them. They are scared, and are surrounded by a culture of people they do not know. They use their fingerprint, instead of a signature because they can't read or write. Yet, they trust us. They trust us to take care of them and help them get better. It's a big responsibility and we do not take it lightly. We all step up to the plate to use our individual skills and as a team, come together to help those who so desperately need it. Everything else aside, all other agendas people bring with them, the mission is to help the Honduran people. And that we did. Each one of them have a story, they have a life, they have goals and dreams. They are just like us, except they live in a world of poverty, crime and violence. I'm going to stop here a minute and say something to that broad statement I just wrote. There are parts of Honduras that are "safer", or more "normal", or more like a city in the US. But for the most part, there's danger lurking. A armed security officer outside a surgery center is mandatory in Honduras. So, it's just apples and oranges when it comes to explaining how things are in that part of the country.
Geographically, we flew into Tegucigalpa, Honduras, which is the capital city. It was about an hour or so bus ride to NPH Ranch. **Note: You can Google NPH Ranch or One World Surgery Center and there's information out there about both. They are on the same site physically, but surprisingly, only minimally connected ** On the bus ride there, we saw many things. A guy on a motorcycle, with a women on the back hanging onto him with one hand, and carrying/holding her baby with the other hand. Don't even ask about a helmet. (And people give me a hard time when I let my dog ride with me on mine). We saw the horses, donkeys and dogs (on the side of the road) with their ribs protruding. We saw what it looks like to live in a house made of packing crates, and people (kids) carrying things along the side of the road that would make no sense to us - but perfect sense to them. It's basically an indescribable thing. It's a movie that now plays in my head regularly. It's a puzzle I'm trying to put together with no pieces that fit. Hence, why I cannot still make it all "fit" inside my head, which has lead me to the inability to blog like I normally would. There's so much to write - yet so much that I cannot put together words that do it justice. It just all seems like chaotic noise without a melody as I write it. I've given in to the notion that it's all going to be willy-nilly on my blog. I have so much to tell.....but I'm struggling to express it, because I can't settle it all in my mind. So, I'll keep throwing words and things together so that you can try and piece together the parts of this puzzle as we go along. My experience in Honduras is more conducive for a book, rather than a blog.
My future blogs will be about: 1) the volunteers and their activities, 2) special and certain activities that occurred while we were there, 3) the drama of being with a group of 60 people all with a similar mission, and 3) the Children's Home set-up, 4) David, and much more. This is my start, and I needed to throw a starting point out there. As I so appropriately titled it, the reflection is still happening in my head. The looking back, the reevaluation of what I thought happened and what actually happened. I think this is what happens when "set" expectations are met with real life. Curve ball, my friend.
There's two things I know for sure:
1) I used to always think I was grateful. For my family/friends, my life, my well-being, my job, pretty much everything. Now, it's like I've moved to a new level of gratitude that I didn't know existed. Kind of like a butterfly unicorn......something you didn't know existed, but does. My new level of gratitude is beyond words. It's a new feeling, a heightened sense of knowing something I never knew before. Hearing about something - and then seeing it - can translate into two completely different things, hence the life people lead in Honduras (and many parts of the world) became new and different when I saw it first hand, sitting in front of me, holding my hand for comfort, feeling their struggle, and seeing it in their eyes. My smile came naturally to them, my touch on their hand and not wanting to let go, and the privilege God granted me to be there, and tossed me into a place I've never been. Literally and emotionally. I thought I was grateful in life, but my new level of gratitude has me wondering.....is there more I'm missing? And I'm sure now that the answer is Yes.
2) Another take-away for me was that each person who came on this mission had their own unique and special experience. Everyone looked at it through their own eyes, had feelings only they will know, and walked away from this with their own evaluation. We each had our own special experience. No story will be the same. We may have similarities in what we experienced, but the overall take-away for each of us is idiosyncratic and distinct. Fascinating considering we all went with the same goal. Or at least most people there had the same goal. DunDunDunnnnn.
As I sigh a big sigh of relief, I've now been able to start my blogging process for this trip. I'm ready to open the vault and let the therapy, I mean words, come out. It is very cathartic, no doubt. The chatter in my mind is busy busy, and I'll take them and put them into words over the next few days. And we'll take this journey together.
Did I mention how beautiful, mountainous and breathtaking Honduras is? Your gorgeous, Honduras, you really are.
Much love,
C
Monday, February 26, 2018
Sunday, February 18, 2018
I stand corrected
Many things are becoming clearer as Day 2 in Honduras ensues.
First, I’ll rewind back to Day 1. We had an interesting (school) bus ride from the capital city to the NPR Ranch. NPR = Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos = My little brothers and sisters. The bus ride took us through Life In Honduras: poverty, mountains, warm climate, narrow roads, beautiful countryside, and people struggling with violence and lack of food on a daily basis. Living conditions are simply indescribable, and pictures cannot express the devastation. Bright Side? We, along with many other people, have come to assist some of these people in need.
After arriving at The Ranch, we settled into our designated rooms. The assignments were such that I’m in a all-girls room, and David is in a all-boys room. We are next door to each other, with anywhere from 4 to 5 twin beds per room. The facility we are staying in is somewhat new, and very nice. Each room has a bathroom and shower. Note: In Honduras, no matter where you are, you do not flush toilet paper down the toilet. The saying goes that “only what comes out of your body goes in the toilet.”
After we settled in and unpacked a bit, dinner was served. Fish, rice, vegetables, potatoes and homemade cake for dessert. The dining room is in the same building as the sleeping quarters, and everything is amazingly organized and nice. This Medical Mission has convenient and high quality facilities. I don’t think I expected that, although I don’t really know what I expected. Granted, there are many things that are dated: they still burn their trash, you can’t drink the water, you can’t brush your teeth with the water, and the electricity goes off often.
After dinner on Day 1, we all stood up and introduced ourselves, a presentation was given regarding the brigade - and its history. Then, it was off to our rooms for bed. Lights out wasn’t at 8 pm after all, it was at 9:30 pm. I think everyone was tired from the long trip here, with many people from Chicago, Minnesota and Connecticut. There is a big group of folks from the Austin area, too. It seemed like so many names to remember!
Fast forward to Day 2.
Of course, I woke up early. As I walked out of my room, I noticed no one was up. Then, surprise! David walked out of his room, along with Nick, another volunteer from the surgery center I work at. They both had “been awake” for some time, as one of their roommates was snoring like a freight train. They were surprised I could not hear it next door. I couldn’t hear it because one of my own roommates was snoring! It’s going to be a long week of figuring out how to get some sleep. David and Nick said they will be sleeping in a hammock outside tonight......and I think they are serious.
I digress. The three of us walked across the atrium to the dining area. One thing I forgot to mention was the peanut butter and bananas they provide, along with other fruit and snacks . So I had my usual banana and peanut butter, along with some coffee that David made for the whole group (in a huge mamma jamma coffee maker). After I ate, I knew that if I was to fit a run in, that now was the time, as the day was scheduled with other activities. So off I went! Running and exploring. I stayed on the “road” and mostly did laps of the area I knew. Yet, I still looked around as I ran. I could hear the unusual and new bird calls, the unfamiliar smells, and ever-present oddness of actually being in this country. What a privilege it is. We are safe on this compound with one exception.....do not be outside of our facility area when it’s dark. The security guards shoot, no questions asked, they will shoot a moving body in the dark. Everyone knows not to be out in the dark, it’s just a way of life here on this ranch. If you are, you had better let security know beforehand. The “violence” outside of this compound sometimes tries to get in. But they don’t stand a chance, as this place is heavily protected. They don’t mess around.
I happily finished my run, and came back to my room to shower. Sometimes you have hot water, sometimes you don’t. I got lucky, and had a warm shower. So far, it’s certainly my lucky day. Now, I just have to keep reminding myself not to open my mouth when I shower, as that’s another no-no. I use my towel I brought, to dry off. The ranch does give you one towel for the week, and encourages everyone to bring one of their own from home, as well.
After that, I met back up with David (and the grou) and we began our day. First things first, we take a organized walking tour of the ranch. OMGoodness. There’s so much back in here, down this tiny road. Buildings and more buildings of dorm-like structures that house children, and there’s a school, a “elderly “ home, other volunteer/visitor housing, staff housing, chapel’s, gardens, crops growing in the fields, and a farm (yes, a farm!). I wanted to stay there for the week. Cows, pigs, chickens......and I was instantly home-sick. Despite my internal resistance, we went on, and continued by buildings whereby trades are taught to the older children such as electricity skills, cosmetology, mechanics, sewing shop and others. They are educating these children (250 onsite right now), and as they approach 9th grade, they offer them training in these different trades. Simply amazing. They also counsel them in life skills of what healthy relationships would include, such as mutual respect, self-respect, communication skills among other mentally-healthy topics these children need, and are missing in life without their parents there to teach them. Speaking of children, after our tour, we went to a communal meeting spot to visit and play with some of the children. I can only sum this up with this: even though there’s a language barrier, verbal cues are enough to realize what they want to do (play, sit in your lap, etc). Another clarification I’d like to make is that this facility prefers it to be called a Children’s Home, and not a Orphanage. Many of the children are not orphans, as they have families, it’s just that they are unable to care for them due to the extreme poverty and conditions.
Now it’s lunch time for everyone and we all go back to our designated places to eat. And most importantly, it’s time to go to the surgery center for orientation after lunch. That in itself will have to be continued in my next blog post. This is really what we came for, to provide free surgeries to those that need it most. What I soon realized is that it’s surgery for (external/outside the ranch) Hondurans, and primarily adults, who do not have the means to have their ACL/knee fixed, or a hernia repaired, or a fracture properly taken care of, so that they can work and live their life. There are so many things that are becoming clear as I learn what’s happening........and about to happen. And it’s not anything like how we do it in the US.
More to come,
Cyndi
First, I’ll rewind back to Day 1. We had an interesting (school) bus ride from the capital city to the NPR Ranch. NPR = Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos = My little brothers and sisters. The bus ride took us through Life In Honduras: poverty, mountains, warm climate, narrow roads, beautiful countryside, and people struggling with violence and lack of food on a daily basis. Living conditions are simply indescribable, and pictures cannot express the devastation. Bright Side? We, along with many other people, have come to assist some of these people in need.
After arriving at The Ranch, we settled into our designated rooms. The assignments were such that I’m in a all-girls room, and David is in a all-boys room. We are next door to each other, with anywhere from 4 to 5 twin beds per room. The facility we are staying in is somewhat new, and very nice. Each room has a bathroom and shower. Note: In Honduras, no matter where you are, you do not flush toilet paper down the toilet. The saying goes that “only what comes out of your body goes in the toilet.”
After we settled in and unpacked a bit, dinner was served. Fish, rice, vegetables, potatoes and homemade cake for dessert. The dining room is in the same building as the sleeping quarters, and everything is amazingly organized and nice. This Medical Mission has convenient and high quality facilities. I don’t think I expected that, although I don’t really know what I expected. Granted, there are many things that are dated: they still burn their trash, you can’t drink the water, you can’t brush your teeth with the water, and the electricity goes off often.
After dinner on Day 1, we all stood up and introduced ourselves, a presentation was given regarding the brigade - and its history. Then, it was off to our rooms for bed. Lights out wasn’t at 8 pm after all, it was at 9:30 pm. I think everyone was tired from the long trip here, with many people from Chicago, Minnesota and Connecticut. There is a big group of folks from the Austin area, too. It seemed like so many names to remember!
Fast forward to Day 2.
Of course, I woke up early. As I walked out of my room, I noticed no one was up. Then, surprise! David walked out of his room, along with Nick, another volunteer from the surgery center I work at. They both had “been awake” for some time, as one of their roommates was snoring like a freight train. They were surprised I could not hear it next door. I couldn’t hear it because one of my own roommates was snoring! It’s going to be a long week of figuring out how to get some sleep. David and Nick said they will be sleeping in a hammock outside tonight......and I think they are serious.
I digress. The three of us walked across the atrium to the dining area. One thing I forgot to mention was the peanut butter and bananas they provide, along with other fruit and snacks . So I had my usual banana and peanut butter, along with some coffee that David made for the whole group (in a huge mamma jamma coffee maker). After I ate, I knew that if I was to fit a run in, that now was the time, as the day was scheduled with other activities. So off I went! Running and exploring. I stayed on the “road” and mostly did laps of the area I knew. Yet, I still looked around as I ran. I could hear the unusual and new bird calls, the unfamiliar smells, and ever-present oddness of actually being in this country. What a privilege it is. We are safe on this compound with one exception.....do not be outside of our facility area when it’s dark. The security guards shoot, no questions asked, they will shoot a moving body in the dark. Everyone knows not to be out in the dark, it’s just a way of life here on this ranch. If you are, you had better let security know beforehand. The “violence” outside of this compound sometimes tries to get in. But they don’t stand a chance, as this place is heavily protected. They don’t mess around.
I happily finished my run, and came back to my room to shower. Sometimes you have hot water, sometimes you don’t. I got lucky, and had a warm shower. So far, it’s certainly my lucky day. Now, I just have to keep reminding myself not to open my mouth when I shower, as that’s another no-no. I use my towel I brought, to dry off. The ranch does give you one towel for the week, and encourages everyone to bring one of their own from home, as well.
After that, I met back up with David (and the grou) and we began our day. First things first, we take a organized walking tour of the ranch. OMGoodness. There’s so much back in here, down this tiny road. Buildings and more buildings of dorm-like structures that house children, and there’s a school, a “elderly “ home, other volunteer/visitor housing, staff housing, chapel’s, gardens, crops growing in the fields, and a farm (yes, a farm!). I wanted to stay there for the week. Cows, pigs, chickens......and I was instantly home-sick. Despite my internal resistance, we went on, and continued by buildings whereby trades are taught to the older children such as electricity skills, cosmetology, mechanics, sewing shop and others. They are educating these children (250 onsite right now), and as they approach 9th grade, they offer them training in these different trades. Simply amazing. They also counsel them in life skills of what healthy relationships would include, such as mutual respect, self-respect, communication skills among other mentally-healthy topics these children need, and are missing in life without their parents there to teach them. Speaking of children, after our tour, we went to a communal meeting spot to visit and play with some of the children. I can only sum this up with this: even though there’s a language barrier, verbal cues are enough to realize what they want to do (play, sit in your lap, etc). Another clarification I’d like to make is that this facility prefers it to be called a Children’s Home, and not a Orphanage. Many of the children are not orphans, as they have families, it’s just that they are unable to care for them due to the extreme poverty and conditions.
Now it’s lunch time for everyone and we all go back to our designated places to eat. And most importantly, it’s time to go to the surgery center for orientation after lunch. That in itself will have to be continued in my next blog post. This is really what we came for, to provide free surgeries to those that need it most. What I soon realized is that it’s surgery for (external/outside the ranch) Hondurans, and primarily adults, who do not have the means to have their ACL/knee fixed, or a hernia repaired, or a fracture properly taken care of, so that they can work and live their life. There are so many things that are becoming clear as I learn what’s happening........and about to happen. And it’s not anything like how we do it in the US.
More to come,
Cyndi
Saturday, February 17, 2018
And so it begins
It’s Go Time. February 17 arrived, and the journey for our Medical Mission trip to Honduras began.
David and I are both going, and will serve as stewards to the needs of One World Surgery Center in Tegucigalpa. We will fly there today, and return the following Saturday night.
For now, we are packed and making our way there. 2 flights, the first to Miami. We packed what we were told to bring, plus many other things we thought we might need, plus many things we don’t need but don’t know it yet. It’s a big “unknown”. What will be important, and what won’t? We’ll find out soon enough.
The temperature in Honduras will range from 80 during the day to 60 at night. Nice, huh?! So it seems. I brought shorts, which means I had to shave my legs, and will do so for the sake of my vanity. That in itself may be the least of my worries.
We were told to bring our own eating utensils, bug spray, light blanket, and rain jacket, plus an assortment of other items. A flashlight, as the electricity shuts off at 8 pm every night. And snacks and packaged food “if your a picky eater”. They said to bring an (empty) water bottle, and fill it up only out of specific designated sources. Do not drink water out of the facet, or brush your teeth with it either, we were told. Or you’ll be sorry.
I was told I will be a designated Circulating Operating Room RN for the week. I don’t know what service I will be working with (ENT, Urology, General, Gynecology, or whatever services they will offer this week), but I will make it happen. That’s what OR nurses do.
David is classified as a General Volunteer, which means he may be cooking, doing yard work, helping the children in the neighboring Orphanage, as well as assisting in the Surgery Center (turning over rooms between cases, etc). We were told his duties may be different each day. It takes many General Volunteers to keep this Mission going! It’s open to the public, so if you happen to be reading this, you can go sometime, too. They have many brigades each year. Clinical volunteers are great, but General volunteers are needed to assist in a plethora of areas.
You may have heard the Department of State has issued warnings about traveling to Honduras. No need to worry, we are told. The One World Surgery Center (along with an Children’s Orphanage and Elderly Orphanage) is located on a well-fenced and 24/7 guarded “Ranch”, about a hour bus-ride away from the Airport. I suspect the bus-ride there is not on a highway? I don’t really know. Could be a bumpy ride, later today.
How did I come across this opportunity? I work for Stonebridge Surgery Center which happens to be partially owned by SCA (Surgical Care Associates), who is a huge sponsor for this Mission. This Medical Mission is open to SCA employees and their families, but (most) many of the brigades are open to the general public, as well. They just need help there, to help others less fortunate. If I’m correct, there may be up to 60 people participating/volunteering this week. Doctors, nurses, and people from all walks of life with a single mission and goal.
So as we make our way there, we left behind our farm in good hands. Between our daughter, Lauren and another young lady, Rosie (who lives nearby in Gunter), they will take care of our sweet animals. Setting things up on the farm to be gone for a week, was a feat in itself. I’ll miss that the most. My Barn Time. Petting, loving, feeding and cleaning many animals has become not only a way-of-life, but a passion. It rivals with the calming effects of yoga.
One thing I know for sure, is that we will travel by bus to the “Ranch” today. We are not to leave there at all, for the duration of this trip. We do not leave the compound, until we are taken by bus the following Saturday back to the airport. No souvenir shopping. Nor are we allowed to give the children (on-site) anything - or bring gifts. The organizers do not want the children there to think they will always get things each time people come to volunteer. There is a Wish-List for the Orphanage if any one of us wants to donate to it directly, and/or bring things for the “Ranch”. They run a tight ship there, with volunteers coming and going. David and I have found it to be highly organized, with impeccable communication to the attendees. They make it easy, and have policies and procedures set out in detail.
I’ll report more as I can. WiFi and cell service is another item I’m unsure about in Honduras.
Happy Saturday,
Cyndi
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Right-sizing
There seems to be an unintentional theme going on lately. I almost titled this writing as Part II of Love and Loss, yet I felt it would be unfair to Sugar, as this particular loss I'll describe, was intentional - for the good of our farm animal. I'll narrate this in story form:
The Life and Times of Pickles
There once was a Mama and Papa donkey, who were both rescued from different places, to be brought together on a farm in Gunter. They quickly bonded, and got along very well, as if they had been together for many years. As their love for each other grew, they decided to have a baby donkey. To the surprise of the owners, a baby donkey was born in the pasture. Congrats Mama and Papa Donkey, you now have a baby boy. We shall name him Rocco, with a nickname of Baby.
Baby grew up in the pasture with his parents, Mama and Papa who are very tame, loving and kind. Yet, as Baby grew, his Mama and Papa began to see him differently. He matured into a grown donkey, and the dynamics of the herd changed. What was once two donkeys, now became three donkeys with family issues. There was jealousy and challenges along with playfulness and love.
Then, those owners decided to move away from Gunter, and sell their house to two unknowing people who readily agreed to let the donkeys stay, as the original owners could not take them with them. This new couple became fast friends with the donkeys, and fell in love with these sweet, gentle, full-size donkeys. Mama, Papa and Baby came to trust them impeccably, as well. Rocco was renamed to Pickles, but again was commonly called Baby. Time went forward, and the new owners built the threesome herd a large, new shelter, just for them. The herd is very smart, as when it's raining, they head under their shelter. They also use it for protection from the north wind. When the grass doesn't grow during the winter, round bales of hay are their food of choice. Life was good and easy, except for the continuation of isolation for Baby. As Baby got older, Mama and Papa became more dominant. Baby was readily nudged away at Treat Time. He would be chased off by Papa on random and inconsistent occasions. What appeared to be intermittent isolation was becoming a way of life for Baby. He was the third wheel, the outcast, the one who was never first. This behavior by Mama and Papa began to create uncertainty in Baby, and he began to be more stand-offish. At times, Papa could even be physically harming to Baby. Is this how it's supposed to be, the owners wondered? This behavior concerned the new couple over time. Is this normal donkey hierarchy? Is Baby needing to find a place of his own - to be able to be himself?
Baby turned three years old recently. Granted this is still young in donkey years, as they live to 35 years old. A decision was made by the owners to give Baby a chance at life without being bossed around by his Mama and Papa. This was a long and thought out decision, that took many months to finalize. Baby was ready to be on his own, and become an independent donkey. He's ready to be a guard donkey for someone, ready to live his best life making his own decisions without intimidation and domination.
A search brought the owners to a farm that was needing one donkey to protect a foal, as well as an older horse. This was a perfect opportunity for Baby to step up to the plate. He could be himself. He knows how to protect, and this farm wanted him as a pet as well, which is how he's used to being treated. Baby would have the best of both worlds, as he could still do his "job" - and be loved.
A day and time was agreed upon, and a transfer from one pasture to another (not too far away) would take place. Now, Baby has never been harnessed, he's never been in a trailer, nor has he ever left his home of 3 years. How would this transfer actually happen, as he would need to be coxed into a horse trailer and driven to his new home. But it did happen, just last Saturday here on the Graves Farm. Baby walked (rather willingly) into the horse trailer, and went along with the process wonderfully. He was so gentle and good, and everyone was so proud of him.
Baby left the Graves Farm in a luxury horse trailer and headed out to his new chapter in life. This new chapter for him includes freedom, and the ability to become his own self. Where his potential was once stifled at one farm by his own donkey parents, changed in the blink of an eye to his own self-awareness, his needs and wants, as well as the ability to make his own decisions.
And Baby will live happily ever after. The End. It's not really the end. But that's how stories usually end, with The End.
There was one person who cried a few tears in this particular "loss" (surprise, that was me). Between Sugar and Baby leaving me this weekend, it was rough. With that said, how's Mama and Papa Donkey doing, you ask? Well, they are snuggling and side-by-side as they always have been. But I know it can't be easy. (Am I just placing my own feelings on them?). I feel for them. Do they look around for him? Do they miss him? It's rare that donkey families stay together, so what are the emotions they have? I wish I knew. As I go about my day, I pet Mama and Papa, I love on them as I always do, and they love me back as usual - without the uncomfortable "keeping Baby away" thing going on. But I can't help but wonder......was that just what happens in donkey families? I may never know. I can only do what I think is best for our sweet Baby. That's what we do in life. The best we can in any situation.
David sums this experience up as right-sizing. We are keeping the balance on the farm, doing what we think is best, and cultivating harmony and happiness for all who live here. It sounds easy, but sometimes it's hard. Since we have gone so long without loss or change, this seemed like a weekend of uncertainty. It will take a little time to settle into these changes with these farm-animal-world happenings here on The Graves Farm, but I have a feeling there's more unpredictable things in the future. Some good and some not-so-good, but nevertheless we will take things as they come and enjoy all the blessings we have. We are most grateful. Faith keeps us strong in times of trials. We also have to trust our own intuition, have self-compassion, and keep learning. And just do what we think is best.
It's going to be okay,
Cyndi
The Life and Times of Pickles
There once was a Mama and Papa donkey, who were both rescued from different places, to be brought together on a farm in Gunter. They quickly bonded, and got along very well, as if they had been together for many years. As their love for each other grew, they decided to have a baby donkey. To the surprise of the owners, a baby donkey was born in the pasture. Congrats Mama and Papa Donkey, you now have a baby boy. We shall name him Rocco, with a nickname of Baby.
Baby grew up in the pasture with his parents, Mama and Papa who are very tame, loving and kind. Yet, as Baby grew, his Mama and Papa began to see him differently. He matured into a grown donkey, and the dynamics of the herd changed. What was once two donkeys, now became three donkeys with family issues. There was jealousy and challenges along with playfulness and love.
Then, those owners decided to move away from Gunter, and sell their house to two unknowing people who readily agreed to let the donkeys stay, as the original owners could not take them with them. This new couple became fast friends with the donkeys, and fell in love with these sweet, gentle, full-size donkeys. Mama, Papa and Baby came to trust them impeccably, as well. Rocco was renamed to Pickles, but again was commonly called Baby. Time went forward, and the new owners built the threesome herd a large, new shelter, just for them. The herd is very smart, as when it's raining, they head under their shelter. They also use it for protection from the north wind. When the grass doesn't grow during the winter, round bales of hay are their food of choice. Life was good and easy, except for the continuation of isolation for Baby. As Baby got older, Mama and Papa became more dominant. Baby was readily nudged away at Treat Time. He would be chased off by Papa on random and inconsistent occasions. What appeared to be intermittent isolation was becoming a way of life for Baby. He was the third wheel, the outcast, the one who was never first. This behavior by Mama and Papa began to create uncertainty in Baby, and he began to be more stand-offish. At times, Papa could even be physically harming to Baby. Is this how it's supposed to be, the owners wondered? This behavior concerned the new couple over time. Is this normal donkey hierarchy? Is Baby needing to find a place of his own - to be able to be himself?
Baby turned three years old recently. Granted this is still young in donkey years, as they live to 35 years old. A decision was made by the owners to give Baby a chance at life without being bossed around by his Mama and Papa. This was a long and thought out decision, that took many months to finalize. Baby was ready to be on his own, and become an independent donkey. He's ready to be a guard donkey for someone, ready to live his best life making his own decisions without intimidation and domination.
A search brought the owners to a farm that was needing one donkey to protect a foal, as well as an older horse. This was a perfect opportunity for Baby to step up to the plate. He could be himself. He knows how to protect, and this farm wanted him as a pet as well, which is how he's used to being treated. Baby would have the best of both worlds, as he could still do his "job" - and be loved.
A day and time was agreed upon, and a transfer from one pasture to another (not too far away) would take place. Now, Baby has never been harnessed, he's never been in a trailer, nor has he ever left his home of 3 years. How would this transfer actually happen, as he would need to be coxed into a horse trailer and driven to his new home. But it did happen, just last Saturday here on the Graves Farm. Baby walked (rather willingly) into the horse trailer, and went along with the process wonderfully. He was so gentle and good, and everyone was so proud of him.
Baby left the Graves Farm in a luxury horse trailer and headed out to his new chapter in life. This new chapter for him includes freedom, and the ability to become his own self. Where his potential was once stifled at one farm by his own donkey parents, changed in the blink of an eye to his own self-awareness, his needs and wants, as well as the ability to make his own decisions.
And Baby will live happily ever after. The End. It's not really the end. But that's how stories usually end, with The End.
There was one person who cried a few tears in this particular "loss" (surprise, that was me). Between Sugar and Baby leaving me this weekend, it was rough. With that said, how's Mama and Papa Donkey doing, you ask? Well, they are snuggling and side-by-side as they always have been. But I know it can't be easy. (Am I just placing my own feelings on them?). I feel for them. Do they look around for him? Do they miss him? It's rare that donkey families stay together, so what are the emotions they have? I wish I knew. As I go about my day, I pet Mama and Papa, I love on them as I always do, and they love me back as usual - without the uncomfortable "keeping Baby away" thing going on. But I can't help but wonder......was that just what happens in donkey families? I may never know. I can only do what I think is best for our sweet Baby. That's what we do in life. The best we can in any situation.
David sums this experience up as right-sizing. We are keeping the balance on the farm, doing what we think is best, and cultivating harmony and happiness for all who live here. It sounds easy, but sometimes it's hard. Since we have gone so long without loss or change, this seemed like a weekend of uncertainty. It will take a little time to settle into these changes with these farm-animal-world happenings here on The Graves Farm, but I have a feeling there's more unpredictable things in the future. Some good and some not-so-good, but nevertheless we will take things as they come and enjoy all the blessings we have. We are most grateful. Faith keeps us strong in times of trials. We also have to trust our own intuition, have self-compassion, and keep learning. And just do what we think is best.
It's going to be okay,
Cyndi
Sunday, February 4, 2018
With love, comes loss
It's a bit ironic that my last blog post was titled Goodbye, Things. It was in no way associated with what was "to come", but I felt a pang of "oh dear" when I saw that I had titled that as my last post. With that said, my heart is heavy. At this point, one might think I'm speaking of a relative or friend. Actually, I'm speaking of a recent happening on our farm.
Sugar is one of our newest additions to our chicken flock. We purchased two Polish (Silkie) chickens that are adorable, sweet natured, tame and bantam-sized (small breed). One was white, the other tan. We named them Sugar and Spice. We raised them in our shower inside the house, until they were ready to go outside to the Little Girl Coop. There is a transition process for adding chickens to an existing flock. Everyone does it a little different, and David and I have developed our own way of transitioning new chickens in with the others. This time was no different. Sugar and Spice moved from the shower to the Little Girl Coop, which is a closed, smaller coop in the barn, with a heat lamp to allow them time to adjust to the colder temperatures. The other chickens can get to know them, smell them, and adjust to them, before we let the newer chickens out to free range with the existing flock. It was during this time in the Little Girl Coop that we noticed Sugar was not her normal self. It was as if she lost control of her legs and feet. We did what all chicken people are told to do, and isolated her from the flock so that whatever she might have, is not given to the other chickens. A virus or disease can spread through a flock quickly and kill your entire chicken population. And it happens fast. We brought her back inside to the comfort and controlled environment of the shower. She was still eating and trying to drink, but her condition was progressively worsening day by day. Eventually, she could not eat or drink on her own, and her legs seemed paralyzed. We searched the internet for what might be the problem, all the while looking for a solution. A friend called her vet for advice, and we sought help from another chicken person. It appeared to be Marek's disease. This is horrible, as it's a fatal virus (very few chickens survive it, apparently) and now we run the risk of our other chickens being exposed to it, unless we got her out of the barn quick enough. Only time would tell. For now, our sweet little girl chicken, Sugar, is losing the battle. David and I begin feeding her (with a syringe) of our famous concoction consisting of wheat germ, peanut butter, electrolytes, and water. She readily opens her beak for us to feed her. She loves it actually, but is unable to control any of her body movements except her head. The virus is winning. We continue this for days. We sustain her life with this mixture of food and water, but her body has given out, and she cannot do anything but lay completely down. Head, wings, legs - everything is heavy on the floor of the shower on the pine shavings that are her bed. The suffering is hard to see, hard to watch, and is heart breaking. Now what? In all our time of having chickens, this is our first sick chicken. We once again go to the internet to search what other people have done, what is best, and what should we do next? It's not good news. Either we stop the food and water, and she slowly passes away. Or we "humanely" euthanize her to stop her suffering. Since I had began feeding her myself, I was guilty of continuing her situation, that was not going to get better. Only sustaining her misery.
After much education from chicken forums, thinking about it for some time, and talking with David, we knew what we had to do. We could not let her suffer any more. There were many helpful sources to help us process our situation. We had to accept this dilemma of a sick chicken who is dying. We don't let go easily. Many reputable chicken websites explain that with the responsibility of a flock, comes the responsibility of losses, and what to do in those situations. It won't always be rainbows and butterflies.
Fast forward to the ending of the story. Sugar passed away. Our hearts broke when she left us. It will take time to heal, but we must understand this is life on a farm. Her sister chicken, Spice is left alone without her best friend. It's a tragic loss for us, as it is our first loss. We have gone a very long time here on our "hobby" farm with healthy, strong and hearty animals. We haven't taken that for granted, mind you. We have always known that a time will come when something might happen. And that day came yesterday.
Rest In Peace, Sugar. We will march on with our flock, knowing that you are with us in spirit. The Circle of Life seems so logical and normal to me. Until I lost a chicken, and realize how delicate they really are. In the blink of an eye, she's gone. The blessing is that our flock is okay, and no one is showing those same symptoms. Truly a blessing.
Love and Loss. David said those words yesterday. With love, there is loss. It was a reminder I needed to hear. But, it's still hard.
Stay strong,
Cyndi
Sugar is one of our newest additions to our chicken flock. We purchased two Polish (Silkie) chickens that are adorable, sweet natured, tame and bantam-sized (small breed). One was white, the other tan. We named them Sugar and Spice. We raised them in our shower inside the house, until they were ready to go outside to the Little Girl Coop. There is a transition process for adding chickens to an existing flock. Everyone does it a little different, and David and I have developed our own way of transitioning new chickens in with the others. This time was no different. Sugar and Spice moved from the shower to the Little Girl Coop, which is a closed, smaller coop in the barn, with a heat lamp to allow them time to adjust to the colder temperatures. The other chickens can get to know them, smell them, and adjust to them, before we let the newer chickens out to free range with the existing flock. It was during this time in the Little Girl Coop that we noticed Sugar was not her normal self. It was as if she lost control of her legs and feet. We did what all chicken people are told to do, and isolated her from the flock so that whatever she might have, is not given to the other chickens. A virus or disease can spread through a flock quickly and kill your entire chicken population. And it happens fast. We brought her back inside to the comfort and controlled environment of the shower. She was still eating and trying to drink, but her condition was progressively worsening day by day. Eventually, she could not eat or drink on her own, and her legs seemed paralyzed. We searched the internet for what might be the problem, all the while looking for a solution. A friend called her vet for advice, and we sought help from another chicken person. It appeared to be Marek's disease. This is horrible, as it's a fatal virus (very few chickens survive it, apparently) and now we run the risk of our other chickens being exposed to it, unless we got her out of the barn quick enough. Only time would tell. For now, our sweet little girl chicken, Sugar, is losing the battle. David and I begin feeding her (with a syringe) of our famous concoction consisting of wheat germ, peanut butter, electrolytes, and water. She readily opens her beak for us to feed her. She loves it actually, but is unable to control any of her body movements except her head. The virus is winning. We continue this for days. We sustain her life with this mixture of food and water, but her body has given out, and she cannot do anything but lay completely down. Head, wings, legs - everything is heavy on the floor of the shower on the pine shavings that are her bed. The suffering is hard to see, hard to watch, and is heart breaking. Now what? In all our time of having chickens, this is our first sick chicken. We once again go to the internet to search what other people have done, what is best, and what should we do next? It's not good news. Either we stop the food and water, and she slowly passes away. Or we "humanely" euthanize her to stop her suffering. Since I had began feeding her myself, I was guilty of continuing her situation, that was not going to get better. Only sustaining her misery.
After much education from chicken forums, thinking about it for some time, and talking with David, we knew what we had to do. We could not let her suffer any more. There were many helpful sources to help us process our situation. We had to accept this dilemma of a sick chicken who is dying. We don't let go easily. Many reputable chicken websites explain that with the responsibility of a flock, comes the responsibility of losses, and what to do in those situations. It won't always be rainbows and butterflies.
Fast forward to the ending of the story. Sugar passed away. Our hearts broke when she left us. It will take time to heal, but we must understand this is life on a farm. Her sister chicken, Spice is left alone without her best friend. It's a tragic loss for us, as it is our first loss. We have gone a very long time here on our "hobby" farm with healthy, strong and hearty animals. We haven't taken that for granted, mind you. We have always known that a time will come when something might happen. And that day came yesterday.
Rest In Peace, Sugar. We will march on with our flock, knowing that you are with us in spirit. The Circle of Life seems so logical and normal to me. Until I lost a chicken, and realize how delicate they really are. In the blink of an eye, she's gone. The blessing is that our flock is okay, and no one is showing those same symptoms. Truly a blessing.
Love and Loss. David said those words yesterday. With love, there is loss. It was a reminder I needed to hear. But, it's still hard.
Stay strong,
Cyndi
Saturday, January 27, 2018
Goodbye, Things
While on a run today, I continued listening to an audio book, "Goodbye, Things". As you may know by reading previous blogs of mine, I'm all about non-attachement. I'm not an expert at it, yet I am a work-in-progress. I think about letting go of material things, and I have incorporated the concept into my life with relative success. Yet sometimes, I have to ask myself if something I have is necessary or useful, and analyze the pros and cons of keeping it. Now a days, I am likely to rid myself of it.
Material things have always made me feel good, in the past. I liked having certain clothes, a particular car, that special bookcase or the purse that (I thought) spoke of my "success" in life. But something happened. When I begin to learn to let go - more and more - of my material things, I felt better. Way better than having things. I felt free. I felt clean. And I felt simple.
Having less meant I let go of what other people thought. I am secure knowing that I have what I need. If my car is not the nicest, or my closet has a minimal set of clothing, I still have what I need. And I find this practice of non-attachment to material things translates into a healthier emotional well-being and a simpler life. Not to mention less to clean and clutter my living space.
Now, I have a long way to go, don't get me wrong. But once I started down this road, I can't even imagine turning off it. It's wonderful! I try not to get too crazy about it though. I wait until something strikes me as "are you sure you really need that?" or "that's been there for a long time". When I step off the curb, why have all this extra stuff? I just want to continue going down the road of saying 'Goodbye' to things as it arises - or if I'm in one-of-those moods to do so. And, I was in one-of-those moods the last few days.
Since the weather lately has been so cold and not conducive to barn cleaning and what-not, I found these last few days calling my name to take the time to "nest" in the barn. It is my very favorite place to be. Peaceful and calm. I begin by mucking the sheep and chicken coop stalls. I had been making sure they all had plenty of straw during these blistery cold nights, and now it was time to change it out. The best part is, the straw from one place can be used in another place in the pasture. For example, where the donkeys walk up to the barn is mostly dirt. Spreading this "used" straw around that area keeps it dry and a nice place for them to walk and stand. I also changed out all the water buckets with fresh water, filled all the chicken food feeders, fluffed the coop shavings and tossed out all the extra chicken poop I could gather. I will say we maintain it well, but giving it a once-over now and then is refreshing. Even though I get dirty doing it, I somehow feel cleaner. During this process is whereby I cleanse myself of unnecessary things. I don't need this.....I don't need that. Why is that here? It's time to move that. And then Wa-La! The magic of the barn is sparkling, it smells good, and is crisp and uncluttered. It's simple, and it makes me happy. Less is more.
As I write this, I realize that this is really all normal things most people do. My "Goodbye" part comes into play as I'm going through this process of nesting, cleaning, or just being in the mood to do it. I see things differently, and going through these motions have a different intention now. Which brings me to this book I was listening to. The words, "There's happiness in having less." are golden. I am able to understand what that means, finally. Granted, I'm not getting myself down to a mattress and two set of clothes. Yet, the author's minimalist philosophy sounds wildly attractive to me. I can do that, and I could live that life. I actually have, living on the side of the road before. But in real life, day to day, taking my material things down to my personal minimum is a journey I'm happy to be on. Yes, sometimes I have to do it when my husband is gone or away. I typically won't throw out his things or something he may want. But downsizing things when it's just yourself is easier. There's no one to ask and justify to. You just do it. Just so you know, he usually doesn't notice things are missing if I do it a little at a time. Bright side? You can always go buy something if you really did need it after all. But that's not the norm, nor my intention to have to buy something again.
I figured out the important thing is not the measurement of have many or few things I have, but my own state of mind in regards to it. If you have a lot of things are are truly happy, that's totally fine. For me, discarding memorabilia is not the same as discarding memories. Actually discarding these things helps me remember them. I'm all about each of us doing our own thing.
For me, less clutter physically around me means less clutter in my mind. When my environment is clean, I feel clean. So as I moved around the barn yesterday and today, it's a representation of my mind, as well as my physical being. This afternoon, I kept walking back out to the barn, to feel that feeling again. It's been a journey to get there, as our barn started out in a sad state of chaos. Yet now, it's open, airy, and fresh - plus includes just the things that I need, and they are in their place. It's a win-win for my animals and my own mind.
To add to this wonderful non-attachment concept I've adopted, is a term my husband enlightened me on. Right-Sizing. I really like that term. Why have I not heard it? It lends to my saying 'Goodbye' to material things. It helps provide a direction when I may need it. Maybe I will never be a Minimalist, but I can be a Right-Sizer.
I equate this new term Right-Sizing with finding balance in my life. I'll continue to focus on finding balance in the physical things around me using logic, understanding and self-compassion. When I realized that the guilt that keeps me from minimizing is the true waste, it helps put things in perspective. I sometimes write myself a Permission Slip that it's okay to get rid of material things around me, which ultimately brings feelings of purity, contentment and joy. Which all keeps me at the corner of Happy Cyndi and Inner Peace.
So as I lean into the continuation of minimizing my material things, decluttering my mind, and right-sizing my life, I look forward to the fact I can do this. I am healthy, motivated and love life. I am most grateful to be aware that this makes me happy, and has not just physical, but mental advantages. As well as my daughter not having to go through tons of "things" after I step off the curb one day. Your welcome, Lauren.
Here's to putting the 'right' in right-sizing,
Cyndi
Material things have always made me feel good, in the past. I liked having certain clothes, a particular car, that special bookcase or the purse that (I thought) spoke of my "success" in life. But something happened. When I begin to learn to let go - more and more - of my material things, I felt better. Way better than having things. I felt free. I felt clean. And I felt simple.
Having less meant I let go of what other people thought. I am secure knowing that I have what I need. If my car is not the nicest, or my closet has a minimal set of clothing, I still have what I need. And I find this practice of non-attachment to material things translates into a healthier emotional well-being and a simpler life. Not to mention less to clean and clutter my living space.
Now, I have a long way to go, don't get me wrong. But once I started down this road, I can't even imagine turning off it. It's wonderful! I try not to get too crazy about it though. I wait until something strikes me as "are you sure you really need that?" or "that's been there for a long time". When I step off the curb, why have all this extra stuff? I just want to continue going down the road of saying 'Goodbye' to things as it arises - or if I'm in one-of-those moods to do so. And, I was in one-of-those moods the last few days.
Since the weather lately has been so cold and not conducive to barn cleaning and what-not, I found these last few days calling my name to take the time to "nest" in the barn. It is my very favorite place to be. Peaceful and calm. I begin by mucking the sheep and chicken coop stalls. I had been making sure they all had plenty of straw during these blistery cold nights, and now it was time to change it out. The best part is, the straw from one place can be used in another place in the pasture. For example, where the donkeys walk up to the barn is mostly dirt. Spreading this "used" straw around that area keeps it dry and a nice place for them to walk and stand. I also changed out all the water buckets with fresh water, filled all the chicken food feeders, fluffed the coop shavings and tossed out all the extra chicken poop I could gather. I will say we maintain it well, but giving it a once-over now and then is refreshing. Even though I get dirty doing it, I somehow feel cleaner. During this process is whereby I cleanse myself of unnecessary things. I don't need this.....I don't need that. Why is that here? It's time to move that. And then Wa-La! The magic of the barn is sparkling, it smells good, and is crisp and uncluttered. It's simple, and it makes me happy. Less is more.
As I write this, I realize that this is really all normal things most people do. My "Goodbye" part comes into play as I'm going through this process of nesting, cleaning, or just being in the mood to do it. I see things differently, and going through these motions have a different intention now. Which brings me to this book I was listening to. The words, "There's happiness in having less." are golden. I am able to understand what that means, finally. Granted, I'm not getting myself down to a mattress and two set of clothes. Yet, the author's minimalist philosophy sounds wildly attractive to me. I can do that, and I could live that life. I actually have, living on the side of the road before. But in real life, day to day, taking my material things down to my personal minimum is a journey I'm happy to be on. Yes, sometimes I have to do it when my husband is gone or away. I typically won't throw out his things or something he may want. But downsizing things when it's just yourself is easier. There's no one to ask and justify to. You just do it. Just so you know, he usually doesn't notice things are missing if I do it a little at a time. Bright side? You can always go buy something if you really did need it after all. But that's not the norm, nor my intention to have to buy something again.
I figured out the important thing is not the measurement of have many or few things I have, but my own state of mind in regards to it. If you have a lot of things are are truly happy, that's totally fine. For me, discarding memorabilia is not the same as discarding memories. Actually discarding these things helps me remember them. I'm all about each of us doing our own thing.
For me, less clutter physically around me means less clutter in my mind. When my environment is clean, I feel clean. So as I moved around the barn yesterday and today, it's a representation of my mind, as well as my physical being. This afternoon, I kept walking back out to the barn, to feel that feeling again. It's been a journey to get there, as our barn started out in a sad state of chaos. Yet now, it's open, airy, and fresh - plus includes just the things that I need, and they are in their place. It's a win-win for my animals and my own mind.
To add to this wonderful non-attachment concept I've adopted, is a term my husband enlightened me on. Right-Sizing. I really like that term. Why have I not heard it? It lends to my saying 'Goodbye' to material things. It helps provide a direction when I may need it. Maybe I will never be a Minimalist, but I can be a Right-Sizer.
I equate this new term Right-Sizing with finding balance in my life. I'll continue to focus on finding balance in the physical things around me using logic, understanding and self-compassion. When I realized that the guilt that keeps me from minimizing is the true waste, it helps put things in perspective. I sometimes write myself a Permission Slip that it's okay to get rid of material things around me, which ultimately brings feelings of purity, contentment and joy. Which all keeps me at the corner of Happy Cyndi and Inner Peace.
So as I lean into the continuation of minimizing my material things, decluttering my mind, and right-sizing my life, I look forward to the fact I can do this. I am healthy, motivated and love life. I am most grateful to be aware that this makes me happy, and has not just physical, but mental advantages. As well as my daughter not having to go through tons of "things" after I step off the curb one day. Your welcome, Lauren.
Here's to putting the 'right' in right-sizing,
Cyndi
Thursday, January 18, 2018
This cold weather
After a second round of cold weather, I began being asked by friends and family, quite frequently, "How are the animals doing with these freezing temperatures for days at a time?". I must first say that I'm always touched that others are thinking about the safety and well-being of farm animals. It's easily assumed that they are all okay. We see them in the pastures while driving by in our warm, toasty cars. We see the horses in the fields as it's raining, and they just stand there. For hours. The cattle have the same expression on their faces whether it's cold or hot. How do they do it? Who suffers and who tolerates it well?
Before I begin my journey with an update on our animals, I will re-iterate how many, and what we have. In the front pasture, we have three ewe/sheep (who are all around the 1 year old mark), and two Great Pyrenees (Livestock Guard Dogs/LGD). In the back pasture, we have three full size donkeys. They are in separate pastures due to the fact that the donkeys sometimes run/chase after the sheep. The donkeys appear to do this mostly for fun and play, but we decided to not take any risks, and separated them in separate pastures. It works out well. Both of these pastures have access to shelter/cover for them all. We have a large run-in shed (20X26) for the donkeys, with the back wall facing the north so that north-wind does not bother them. The sheep and LGD's have access to the barn, which has a pen for them - all together. They do not get full-run of the whole barn, as they actually have a large-size "doggie-sheep" door they use to go inside the barn, into a fenced pen area inside the barn. Their pen has plentiful straw for the sheep, and two large dog beds for our protectors. And they all know whose place is whose in the pen. The sheep do not sleep on the dog beds, for some reason. Which is a good thing, as the dogs really deserve those comfortable places for all the hard work they do.
We house two chicken coops inside the barn as well. When we first moved here, we had the chicken coops outside like normal people do. We discovered that extreme cold, rain and/or harsh sunshine during the summer were all reasons to place these coops inside the barn, and allow the chickens to free range on their own accord. They come and go out of the barn on their own. If they want to be inside (for any reason), they can do so. And at the same time, those chickens who wish to free range, can go outside and eat bugs, dust bathe and do chicken things. They come and go from the barn through several smaller openings that allow them to do so. They use their coops mainly for 1) sleeping at night, or 2) egg laying time. We have two coops because our community of chickens have included smaller, younger pullets that need time to adjust to the larger flock. So, we have a big girl coop and a little girl coop. Introducing new chickens to the flock is a process. Currently, we have 10 chickens. They are all hens, as rooster are not allowed by the Sheriff (my husband). When we have accidentally gotten a rooster (as a baby chick) they have grown up to be quite a disruption. So any accidental roosters we had, have found new homes (Thank you, Preston Trail Farms!), and they go on to live healthily, happy lives. With that said, our recent new additions, Daisy and Lily were not only meat chickens, but one was a rooster, and they now live on another farm. We have since gotten 4 new pullets (girl chickens) who will grow up to lay eggs. We named them Peaches and Creme, and Sugar and Spice. Peaches and Creme have joined the flock nicely, although not old enough to be egg layers yet.....but soon . Sugar and Spice are only 2 months old and will join the flock outside when weather permits. Until then, yes, they live inside a shower in a bathroom in our house. They have shavings, food, water and a perch, just like all the chickens before them have done. Until they are older and fully-feathered, it's best to keep them somewhere warm - and that's where we do it. In a shower. It's easy to clean, easy to access them (hold them!), and get them accustomed to our "way" here on The Graves Farm. The chickens that come through the house/shower route are often the chickens you are able to go pick up in the yard. They are tame, sweet and enjoy the love of people. Or at least tolerate people holding and petting them. When people visit and realize some of the chickens don't mind being picked up and held, those are the ones raised in our shower inside the house. Mind you, we do not shower in that shower while they are in there. It's strictly a chicken holding place, until young chicks grow up enough to be outside.
In addition to the sheep, LGD's, donkeys and chickens, we have 8 or 9 barn cats. Why am I not certain on the actual count? It's because we have one (sometimes two) barn cats that just appear. Sometimes they are around so much, we even name them. Then, we might not see them again for awhile. The barn cats that are permanent fixtures are: Fi, June Bug, July, Finn, Kitty, Smokey, Sweet Pea and Preston. There have been other cats that come and go, but we never know whose they are or where they came from. We have one big boy cat hanging around lately, taking up residence whom we named Boots. We see him now and then. But overall, most of these cats have been "gifted" to us. Friends or family who have a cat that they need to "get rid of" for various reasons. It's like a community of House-cats Gone Wild. People (they ask first) bring their cats here, and we give them a wonderful place to stay. They are well fed, have plenty of water, and find the abundance of cat beds and kitty climbers in the garage and barn enticing. They are all smart kitties. So smart, they learn how to come in the doggie door and into the house. That leads them into the laundry room, which is now called Cat Land. The door to the house (from the laundry room) is kept shut, as we do not want to live in Cat Land ourselves. But the laundry room provides a safe haven for any kitty who desires the next-best-thing to being inside a house. The laundry room has cat food, cat beds and water as well. They really only use it when it's cold, as when the weather is warm, and they enjoy sleeping outside.
Lastly, we have our two "inside" dogs, Bridgette and Maybe. They now live in Cat Land as well, as since that door is shut full-time now, there are actually no animals inside the house (except in the laundry room). The house is always much cleaner now since this has occurred. No animals in the house. It works for us.
Now, let's talk about this freezing weather for days on end. How is everyone doing?
1) The LGD's: Levi and Whisper are big dogs with lots of dog hair. Layers and layers of fur. That particular breed is meant to live outside and guard livestock. They are awesome. Period. Their fur coats provide the warmth they need, but I will say these cold temperatures have put them to the test. They have their dog beds available to them for comfort and warmth, in the pen area of the barn. They are protected from rain, sleet, and wind. They are up most of the night guarding the parameter of our property, making sure no predators cross the fence line. They are diligent and loyal. They protect the sheep instinctually. We could not have all our ancillary animals (chickens, barn cats and sheep) without them. They are the reason everyone else is alive and stays safe. They are churning through this winter, but I know nicer weather would make their lives more comfortable. Hang in there!
2) The sheep: Belle, Eve and Cotton have grown out their wool coats. They love this cold weather. I assume they think it's refreshing. The summer is so brutal for them, that this is a walk in the park. They stay outside much of the time, but if it's really cold and windy, or cold rain, or both, they are smart creatures and come inside their pen area in the barn (same area the dogs have their dog beds). This is their safe place - and their protection from the elements. We keep plenty of straw down for them to snuggle in if they do happen to be cold. It's hard to tell if they are cold? We have friends who also have sheep, and they have told me they already lost 2 of their sheep to this cold weather. So since I'm new to having sheep, all I can do is provide warm options for them, and a place to get out of the wind and rain, if they want to. And usually they do. They only like warm rain. Kinda like me.
3) The donkeys: Pumpkin (Mama), Papa and Baby (Pickles). These full size donkeys are amazing. Smart, funny, and full of personality. They play, love and communicate their needs well. They too, have grown out their coats. In the summer, they are pristine and smooth. In the winter, they have longer, scraggly hair, which they will shed in the Spring. We had a new shelter, a Run-In shed as it's called, built for them before this winter came. It's plenty big for them to get under, and they do. It's three-sided, with plenty of room for all three of them to get under when the north wind blows, or rain comes, or it's just plain cold and they want to settle into their straw. It's a place they can call their own.
4) The chickens: Ginger (head hen), Butterscotch (her right-hand man/hen), Pebbles, Pepper, Sunshine, Butter, Peaches, Creme, Sugar and Spice are all resilient. These girlz, wow. They are hardy, bright and a great flock of chickens. Everyone gets along, for the most part. They love free-ranging, and put themselves to bed at night - on their own. When dusk falls, they head to the barn to roost on their own special spots for the night. In this cold weather, they poof out their feathers and somehow use that technique to keep themselves warm. They don't often choose to go to the very inside of their coop, where it seems it would be the warmest place. Nope, they are fine with the cold temperatures. They have surprised me the most, in these frigid low teens of temps. They manage it just fine. Simply amazing. The biggest thing I've noticed is they lay less eggs in the winter. I'm told the reason for this is because there is less daylight hours, and that is needed for their egg production. We still get eggs each day, just less now that in the summertime.They require very little with this cold weather. We shut the barn doors more now with the colder weather, and shut all the barn windows to keep the draft down in the barn. That helps a lot!
5) The barn cats. Our community of cats is full of every personality you could imagine. Overall, they do well with each other. Some prefer the garage area, some prefer the barn and some prefer the laundry room. 5 of them are consistently in the laundry room during these cold spells. They go in and out through the doggie door, mostly sleeping inside on the cat beds we have placed strategically. This cold weather is not appealing to them. But they are all making it. In the garage, we have several heated cat beds available. Fi has claimed one, as July has claimed another. They all figure out what works best for them. We give them plenty of "warm" options.
Most importantly........how do we keep all our animals water sources from freezing?! Water is key for all our animals. We have invested in heated buckets and de-icer's in existing water buckets. These devices turn on and off automatically, to ensure the water in the bucket(s) does not freeze. It does not necessarily heat the water, but it keeps it from freezing. Magic. We have these in each pasture, in the barn, and in the garage, so that no one is without water during freezing times. This has made our life SO much easier. It took having a electrician to come out and assist us with new GFI plugs and other necessary adjustments, but is an investment that will pay-off each winter. As far as food goes, we do have to feed more during the winter, as nothing is growing for the animals to eat. We buy round bales of hay for the donkeys, alfalfa square bales for the sheep, and grain for everyone. This is only necessary during the winter months. We find this pretty easy to manage overall. Once you get a system in place, it runs itself with daily maintenance.
I'll close with one last thought. My favorite times of the day are morning and night feedings in the barn - even when it's 20 degrees out there. The love is overwhelming. No where else I'd rather be.
Ewe puuuurfect as ewe are,
Cyndi
Before I begin my journey with an update on our animals, I will re-iterate how many, and what we have. In the front pasture, we have three ewe/sheep (who are all around the 1 year old mark), and two Great Pyrenees (Livestock Guard Dogs/LGD). In the back pasture, we have three full size donkeys. They are in separate pastures due to the fact that the donkeys sometimes run/chase after the sheep. The donkeys appear to do this mostly for fun and play, but we decided to not take any risks, and separated them in separate pastures. It works out well. Both of these pastures have access to shelter/cover for them all. We have a large run-in shed (20X26) for the donkeys, with the back wall facing the north so that north-wind does not bother them. The sheep and LGD's have access to the barn, which has a pen for them - all together. They do not get full-run of the whole barn, as they actually have a large-size "doggie-sheep" door they use to go inside the barn, into a fenced pen area inside the barn. Their pen has plentiful straw for the sheep, and two large dog beds for our protectors. And they all know whose place is whose in the pen. The sheep do not sleep on the dog beds, for some reason. Which is a good thing, as the dogs really deserve those comfortable places for all the hard work they do.
We house two chicken coops inside the barn as well. When we first moved here, we had the chicken coops outside like normal people do. We discovered that extreme cold, rain and/or harsh sunshine during the summer were all reasons to place these coops inside the barn, and allow the chickens to free range on their own accord. They come and go out of the barn on their own. If they want to be inside (for any reason), they can do so. And at the same time, those chickens who wish to free range, can go outside and eat bugs, dust bathe and do chicken things. They come and go from the barn through several smaller openings that allow them to do so. They use their coops mainly for 1) sleeping at night, or 2) egg laying time. We have two coops because our community of chickens have included smaller, younger pullets that need time to adjust to the larger flock. So, we have a big girl coop and a little girl coop. Introducing new chickens to the flock is a process. Currently, we have 10 chickens. They are all hens, as rooster are not allowed by the Sheriff (my husband). When we have accidentally gotten a rooster (as a baby chick) they have grown up to be quite a disruption. So any accidental roosters we had, have found new homes (Thank you, Preston Trail Farms!), and they go on to live healthily, happy lives. With that said, our recent new additions, Daisy and Lily were not only meat chickens, but one was a rooster, and they now live on another farm. We have since gotten 4 new pullets (girl chickens) who will grow up to lay eggs. We named them Peaches and Creme, and Sugar and Spice. Peaches and Creme have joined the flock nicely, although not old enough to be egg layers yet.....but soon . Sugar and Spice are only 2 months old and will join the flock outside when weather permits. Until then, yes, they live inside a shower in a bathroom in our house. They have shavings, food, water and a perch, just like all the chickens before them have done. Until they are older and fully-feathered, it's best to keep them somewhere warm - and that's where we do it. In a shower. It's easy to clean, easy to access them (hold them!), and get them accustomed to our "way" here on The Graves Farm. The chickens that come through the house/shower route are often the chickens you are able to go pick up in the yard. They are tame, sweet and enjoy the love of people. Or at least tolerate people holding and petting them. When people visit and realize some of the chickens don't mind being picked up and held, those are the ones raised in our shower inside the house. Mind you, we do not shower in that shower while they are in there. It's strictly a chicken holding place, until young chicks grow up enough to be outside.
In addition to the sheep, LGD's, donkeys and chickens, we have 8 or 9 barn cats. Why am I not certain on the actual count? It's because we have one (sometimes two) barn cats that just appear. Sometimes they are around so much, we even name them. Then, we might not see them again for awhile. The barn cats that are permanent fixtures are: Fi, June Bug, July, Finn, Kitty, Smokey, Sweet Pea and Preston. There have been other cats that come and go, but we never know whose they are or where they came from. We have one big boy cat hanging around lately, taking up residence whom we named Boots. We see him now and then. But overall, most of these cats have been "gifted" to us. Friends or family who have a cat that they need to "get rid of" for various reasons. It's like a community of House-cats Gone Wild. People (they ask first) bring their cats here, and we give them a wonderful place to stay. They are well fed, have plenty of water, and find the abundance of cat beds and kitty climbers in the garage and barn enticing. They are all smart kitties. So smart, they learn how to come in the doggie door and into the house. That leads them into the laundry room, which is now called Cat Land. The door to the house (from the laundry room) is kept shut, as we do not want to live in Cat Land ourselves. But the laundry room provides a safe haven for any kitty who desires the next-best-thing to being inside a house. The laundry room has cat food, cat beds and water as well. They really only use it when it's cold, as when the weather is warm, and they enjoy sleeping outside.
Lastly, we have our two "inside" dogs, Bridgette and Maybe. They now live in Cat Land as well, as since that door is shut full-time now, there are actually no animals inside the house (except in the laundry room). The house is always much cleaner now since this has occurred. No animals in the house. It works for us.
Now, let's talk about this freezing weather for days on end. How is everyone doing?
1) The LGD's: Levi and Whisper are big dogs with lots of dog hair. Layers and layers of fur. That particular breed is meant to live outside and guard livestock. They are awesome. Period. Their fur coats provide the warmth they need, but I will say these cold temperatures have put them to the test. They have their dog beds available to them for comfort and warmth, in the pen area of the barn. They are protected from rain, sleet, and wind. They are up most of the night guarding the parameter of our property, making sure no predators cross the fence line. They are diligent and loyal. They protect the sheep instinctually. We could not have all our ancillary animals (chickens, barn cats and sheep) without them. They are the reason everyone else is alive and stays safe. They are churning through this winter, but I know nicer weather would make their lives more comfortable. Hang in there!
2) The sheep: Belle, Eve and Cotton have grown out their wool coats. They love this cold weather. I assume they think it's refreshing. The summer is so brutal for them, that this is a walk in the park. They stay outside much of the time, but if it's really cold and windy, or cold rain, or both, they are smart creatures and come inside their pen area in the barn (same area the dogs have their dog beds). This is their safe place - and their protection from the elements. We keep plenty of straw down for them to snuggle in if they do happen to be cold. It's hard to tell if they are cold? We have friends who also have sheep, and they have told me they already lost 2 of their sheep to this cold weather. So since I'm new to having sheep, all I can do is provide warm options for them, and a place to get out of the wind and rain, if they want to. And usually they do. They only like warm rain. Kinda like me.
3) The donkeys: Pumpkin (Mama), Papa and Baby (Pickles). These full size donkeys are amazing. Smart, funny, and full of personality. They play, love and communicate their needs well. They too, have grown out their coats. In the summer, they are pristine and smooth. In the winter, they have longer, scraggly hair, which they will shed in the Spring. We had a new shelter, a Run-In shed as it's called, built for them before this winter came. It's plenty big for them to get under, and they do. It's three-sided, with plenty of room for all three of them to get under when the north wind blows, or rain comes, or it's just plain cold and they want to settle into their straw. It's a place they can call their own.
4) The chickens: Ginger (head hen), Butterscotch (her right-hand man/hen), Pebbles, Pepper, Sunshine, Butter, Peaches, Creme, Sugar and Spice are all resilient. These girlz, wow. They are hardy, bright and a great flock of chickens. Everyone gets along, for the most part. They love free-ranging, and put themselves to bed at night - on their own. When dusk falls, they head to the barn to roost on their own special spots for the night. In this cold weather, they poof out their feathers and somehow use that technique to keep themselves warm. They don't often choose to go to the very inside of their coop, where it seems it would be the warmest place. Nope, they are fine with the cold temperatures. They have surprised me the most, in these frigid low teens of temps. They manage it just fine. Simply amazing. The biggest thing I've noticed is they lay less eggs in the winter. I'm told the reason for this is because there is less daylight hours, and that is needed for their egg production. We still get eggs each day, just less now that in the summertime.They require very little with this cold weather. We shut the barn doors more now with the colder weather, and shut all the barn windows to keep the draft down in the barn. That helps a lot!
5) The barn cats. Our community of cats is full of every personality you could imagine. Overall, they do well with each other. Some prefer the garage area, some prefer the barn and some prefer the laundry room. 5 of them are consistently in the laundry room during these cold spells. They go in and out through the doggie door, mostly sleeping inside on the cat beds we have placed strategically. This cold weather is not appealing to them. But they are all making it. In the garage, we have several heated cat beds available. Fi has claimed one, as July has claimed another. They all figure out what works best for them. We give them plenty of "warm" options.
Most importantly........how do we keep all our animals water sources from freezing?! Water is key for all our animals. We have invested in heated buckets and de-icer's in existing water buckets. These devices turn on and off automatically, to ensure the water in the bucket(s) does not freeze. It does not necessarily heat the water, but it keeps it from freezing. Magic. We have these in each pasture, in the barn, and in the garage, so that no one is without water during freezing times. This has made our life SO much easier. It took having a electrician to come out and assist us with new GFI plugs and other necessary adjustments, but is an investment that will pay-off each winter. As far as food goes, we do have to feed more during the winter, as nothing is growing for the animals to eat. We buy round bales of hay for the donkeys, alfalfa square bales for the sheep, and grain for everyone. This is only necessary during the winter months. We find this pretty easy to manage overall. Once you get a system in place, it runs itself with daily maintenance.
I'll close with one last thought. My favorite times of the day are morning and night feedings in the barn - even when it's 20 degrees out there. The love is overwhelming. No where else I'd rather be.
Ewe puuuurfect as ewe are,
Cyndi
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