PEACE IN THE PASTURES - A WALK THROUGH THE PATINA MEADOW BARNYARD

On a farm not so far away, lives a family, with members who talk, oink, baa, and bray.

Though you may know the people who preside there and the words that they say, they are not the focus today. No, today, I turn to the animals, to see how they’ve been spending their June, and before, their May. So come along. Let’s go on our way.

You may have heard faint barks as you drove around the bend and down the driveway. Those are the dogs, welcoming you to our foray. They’ve just returned home from a night patrolling for prey, and now they’re ready to sleep the day away.

Beyond their home is a piggie named Prudence and her brother, who’s searching for hay. This morning, they’re trotting from pasture to pasture, eating whatever grubs they find on display.

Standing proud on the post beyond them is one of the many guinea fowl, whose squaking calls are always on replay.

Let's walk up the hill to visit the sheep, whose soft white wool shines bright even when the morning is dreary and grey.

They’re enjoying their time grazing on the sweet grass this season brings, and basking in the last of the cool days.

Do you see the goats deep in the forest? Under those branches that sway?

They’re chomping down trees like they’re racing in a relay.

They reach for leaves until their hind legs give way, and from one spot to the next, they march in lock-step; there is no time to delay.

Wait, did you just hear a bray? The donkeys are calling. Let’s go see what they’re up to today. High on the hill, they’re watching in wait, hoping they won’t need to use their strong kick to slay.

The cows, on the other hand, have their eyes on the grass, the fresh green blades keeping their hunger at bay. Couldn't you watch them munch and moo all day?

But we must keep going, come on, and don’t stray. Look, there are more goats! A whole other group, who are new to the land and love to play.

Do you like new additions? Well then, I have one more place to take you. Say hi to the piggies as we pass them on our way.

Welcome to the chicken coop, where our little hens lay.

Tucked in the corners, you’ll find chicks and keets, with their sweet, baby beaks, all huddled close together, not even one going astray.

Oh goodness, would you look at the time! I’m sorry to go, but I must be on my way. I hope you enjoyed your visit and felt the joy that these sweet souls convey. Until next time, go pass on their peace to those you encounter today, and finally, just know, it will all be okay.

Love,

Leila