I thought that the next post that would be here would be one about sun, sand and frivolity after we had a weekend sojourn to the coast before summer is over. However, as is often the case, life has other ideas. We did have a nice weekend at the beach but a bit of a shock when we came home.

Our livestock are very important to us. Our farm is not large and there is just the right balance of numbers that animals can be considered livestock and not pets. That doesn't stop some of them from elevating to the role of favourite. My favourite sheep, Georgina, died while we were away. Why wouldn't Georgina be my favourite, she always came when I whistled and there was never a need for a dog because she followed me and the other sheep followed her. . I spoke to her on Thursday evening (yes, I speak to them and sometimes I think they understand) and all was well but by the time we came home, she was gone. It was sad and I think that is why I haven't had much of an urge to write or even turn the computer on really. Living on a farm where we are responsible for the taking of animals lives for our own consumption doesn't give one immunity from the feelings associated with loss.

I do know for certain that her life was luxurious for a sheep. At 8 years of age, she still had a full mouth of teeth and her only sign of aging was the little bit of white on her muzzle and I can't recall her ever having any ailments in all her years. Old age, what more can you ask for?

I will be back tomorrow or the next day with happier things.

Tracy