Feeding Time

As I take refuge in the barn each day, normally in the mornings for feedings, and after work, I have come to realize that this is not just a chore I do, but a place of peace. I have established a ritual of feeding, so that all the animals know "their turn will come". Most wait patiently, having faith I will get to them soon. I love this about them. I try to take a page out of their book, knowing that if I also wait in life, I will be the recipient of just what I need.
I give my sweet barn cats fresh kitty food, with one cat in particular that gets "wet" cat food due to his difficulty with chewing hard food. The vet told us he also has colitis, and his gut may never be okay. We have tried everything to help him heal his tummy and colon issues including probiotics, antibiotics (to kill off the bad bacteria in his little gut), dewormer, amid varying his diet. He's of small statue and came to the farm not well. Thanks to the local vet, we have helped him feel somewhat better. I see him everyday as he allows me to pet and love him. But as a traditional barn kitty, he does not want to be picked up. No, thanks. He's my example of plugging along, even when your body is sabotaging you. An adult cat in a kitten-size body. He lives his best life, despite his tough beginnings in life, whereby his colon now wrecks havoc on him. But we are blessed to him now, and his calm spirit and sweet demeanor, despite his colon troubles, make him a wonderful addition to the barn. He literally gets along with everyone. Everyone. Sometimes, I just want to be him in life. Easy to get along with, well liked by all, and hang out all day. To have a cat that gets along with all the others is rare. We don't typically have any fighting, mind you, but some cats prefer other cat friends more than others. And he's my example of unity. He has no ill-will towards anyone. He's my pint-sized inspiration.
After I love on the cats, I move to feed my great pyrenees. My great protectors. If I could only tell them how much I appreciate them. Thank you Levi and Whisper for all you do. You constantly stand guard and protect the others. How can I ever repay you? My best attempt is to feed you well. I give all yummy leftovers (heated up) to them, mixed in their dog food. I talk sweetly to them, pet them, and provide them rewards from our own table. They are the reason everyone in the barn, and front pasture is safe from predators. They expend a lot of energy during the day and night, so eating well is a necessity.
Next up, my sweet sheep, who have been patiently waiting for their turn. They graze the pasture mostly, but they also get a certain amount of grain while in their pen. I pour the grain into their feeding pans, and you would think it was Christmas. Every time. It reminds me of when I get the yummiest food - at just that right time. Just digging in, not being able to eat it fast enough. They adore their grain time. And as a bonus, I'll add some alfalfa. Jackpot! Their little baaaaaa sounds warm my heart, and I realize how lucky I am to have them. God has put his trust in me, to provide for them all. And it's with great pleasure that I do.
Let's see. Whose next? Oh yes, the chickens! I make sure all their feeders are full, but also put down scratch for them on the barn floor. They can access it as they like. A chicken's best friend is fresh water. My two newest girlz to the flock have gotten so big. It takes time to incorporate other pullets/hens into a existing flock. Hierarchy is apparent. But so far so good, as it just takes time. What we found out is our two newest chicks, who have grown physically into "big chickens" are of the Cornish breed. Does that sound familiar? They are a meat chicken. Meaning they will not lay many eggs, and are better suited to be eaten. I mean, they are meaty! If you pick them up, you will know what I mean. And even though at only 4 months old, they are bigger than all my other chickens, they are gentle giants. They are literally pets. They follow you around, and are super friendly. They are not good forgers, and prefer to hang out in the barn - eat the food provided. That's fine with me. They are an accident, as the feed store we bought them from did not know their breed. Almost like they were mystery chickens. But now that they have developed and grown, we can see what kind they are. Chickens people eat. Daisy and Lily will live a luxury life on our farm. We will not be eating them.  Love my chickens!
Now, onto my 3 beautiful donkeys who have been watching my every move. They know they will get something. But what? Well, first off, they basically will eat anything. But I try to give them fruit, carrots, alfalfa, old bread/tortillas, sweets of any kind or any leftovers I think they might like. They are not meat eaters, and prefer sweets if possible. Mints are a favorite of theirs. They have a sweet tooth....just like me. I take time to feed them whatever I have brought to them that day, and they readily trust me, knowing it's going to be good. They rarely reject my offerings. I pet them, love them, and tell them what good donkeys they are. Their personalities keep me entertained. I never in my life knew I would have donkeys. I absolutely adore them. They are kind to everyone who comes over, and are a fan-favorite for sure. We had a new barn/run-in shed built for them a few weeks ago in the back pasture, and knowing they have their own place allows me to sleep better at night. It's like a Donkey B&B. A place to call their own, stay warm and dry. Just knowing they have their own place calms any chaos in my spirit. I know they are okay, like all the rest of the farm animals. That's the only way I can truly lay my head and rest at night. Knowing all my sweet-peas (in the barn and pastures) are comfortable too. My heart is so tender when it comes to every one of them.
We have installed a Barn Cam (in the barn) and I have the privilege of watching them throughout the day on it, from my phone. I can check on them, see how their doing - or better yet - what they are doing, throughout the day. It allows me to be there, when I'm not there. After all.....there's really no where else in my day that brings the serenity and peace that my barn does.

Let your light shine,
Cyndi

Happy Birthday, Brooke!!! I hope you had lots of sweet treats as well.