Caught in action

You know, living on a farm isn't just chores and hard work; it's truly a daily dose of magic and unexpected joy. Just like that incredible Friday morning I mentioned, there are always little moments that remind me why I love this life so much. It's about being present and really seeing the world around you, especially our wonderful animal companions. Take our dogs, for example. We call their cozy corner the 'poochnest' – it’s where they get all snuggled up after a long day of 'supervising' the chickens and chasing squirrels. They're such an integral part of our farm family, always ready to lend a paw (or at least a wagging tail) to any activity. I often 'catch them in action' doing the funniest things, whether it's our energetic golden retriever trying to 'herd' the ducks or our determined terrier attempting to befriend a particularly grumpy goat. One of my favorite memories dates back quite a while, perhaps even to around 1998. That was the year we welcomed our first rescue dog to the farm, an old Basset Hound named Barnaby. He wasn't much for chasing, but he had the most soulful eyes and a comforting presence. He taught us so much about patience and unconditional love, and he absolutely adored his 'poochnest' by the fireplace. Seeing him stretched out, completely content amidst the farm's hustle and bustle, was always a glorious sight. These days, our 'poochnest' is usually filled with a playful tangle of paws and wagging tails. But it's not just the dogs who bring excitement. Just this week, I 'caught in action' a tiny baby chick pecking its way out of its shell – a truly awe-inspiring sight that reminds you of the continuous cycle of life here. Or the time I saw a rather mischievous fox trying to sneak past our watchful geese, only to be met with a chorus of honks and a determined chase! You never know what each new day will bring on the farm. For anyone dreaming of farm life or already living it, my biggest tip is to savor these small, glorious moments. Keep your phone handy; you never know when you'll 'catch' something truly special. And always make sure your 'poochnest' (or whatever cozy spot your pets have) is extra comfortable, because happy animals make for a happy farm. It’s these daily discoveries, these spontaneous glimpses into the rhythm of nature and our animals, that truly make farm life so exciting and fulfilling.