Meeting the Neighbors

A few weeks ago we rolled up to the farmhouse about 9 pm, having driven from Laurel Ridge in fog and rain. Andy and Stacy along with Ray and his daughters met us to unload the masterfully packed 17 foot moving truck. It was a long day, but we were able to sleep in our clean, comfy bed. I am a huge believer in good sheets and pillows so they were packed in my car ready and waiting for the end of Moving Day One. The next morning we began meeting our neighbors doggie style. Farm dogs are notoriously friendly, especially those who are familiar with composting which is a common practice at Blue Heron. Our three closest animal neighbors are Kira, Ralph and Tengo. All are dogs of size compared to Maija, our miniature schnauzer After 4 years at Laurel Ridge Maija pretty much thinks of herself as Queen of the Mountain. Her neighbors came over to sniff out a welcome and let her know that while she might be top dog in the mountains, she had a few lessons to learn about pecking order on the farm. It was fast. Kira (top dog) simply grabbed Maija by the throat and threw her to the ground. End of story. Top dog-ness established the four ran off to explore. Maybe they were giving Maija a compost pile tour. Cats are different. They arrive quietly when the humans aren’t looking. They hiss, scratch, roll around like a whirling dervish then part ways leaving the question of turf open to further discussion. The new cat on the block is not an easy role to play. But here we are, two-plus weeks later and I’m watching Sadie, now wiser and farm-savvy, stretch out in the sun-warmed grass with grand abandon. The edge of her yard is the main pathway to the garden. She lies sleepily watching over the path as if there is no question about who belongs there. There are more important things capturing her attention; naps on every soft piece of furniture in the farmhouse, imaginary chase games in the field, sitting on the deck railing in the afternoon sun, and her favorite pastime…curling up in the bathroom sink while water drips on her head. The animals have met their neighbors. It’s a peaceful kingdom with dogs, cats, goats, chickens, and a cow sharing 70 acres of animal heaven.