Don’s sister Debbie came to visit us over the weekend. I haven’t blogged for a while, and she graciously agreed to be our very first guest blogger. Thanks Deb!
At the beginning of my visit with Don and Justina, I was bribed early on to pick up the blog and give my perspective on the weekend. My mind experienced a “twist” over that request because generally speaking, my visits with them have always been pure magic, in a personal way. This is my family. They love me without question, and that is a cherished feeling. I’ll do pretty much anything they ask, so here we go…
We started the weekend with immediate cheers to being together again, and headed down to the barn to say hello to my larger nieces and nephews. Donkey greetings are always a highlight because whenever Don or Justina get within range of sight, the boyz and girlz are nearly bursting with joy. There was so much excitement that we took Bernard and Ellsworth for a walk down a lovely quiet trail. I took some of the first pictures on this walk, that opened up to a large field with breathtaking views as the backdrop.
It was a quick walk because we were on a deadline to see the Virginia Military Institute dress parade happening that afternoon. Bernard and Ellsworth were safely tucked away, the Moo was secured, and we took off for downtown Lexington.
If you’ve never witnessed a dress parade, understand that the process is amazing to both see and feel. The uniforms are sharp. Actions are precise and with purpose.
Feeling pride in your country is hard to avoid as you pay respect to our great flag and nation. There is no better country than the United States of America.
Upon returning home, Don decided it would be awesome to have me touch the electric fence. Generally speaking, I’d like to think I am smarter than this. Unfortunately, my love for family and trust for my brother brings out the stupid in me. He knows this and continues to trick his little sister without mercy. Note in the photo that Don is touching the fence. I inspected him carefully. He wasn’t sweating. He wasn’t twitching. He was very matter of fact that it was no big deal. So, okay, I’ll touch the fence. Had Justina said ANYTHING at this point it would have been helpful. She opted to stay in the barn and snicker quietly. If any of you visit, don’t fall for this. My howling in pain sent the donkeys racing halfway up the hill. Don giggled like a school girl.
Harriet was not pleased.
My favorite spot on the farm is the gazebo.
We spent most of the weekend here, blazing a trail to the fridge and back. The dogs visit at will, donkeys are visible, and we can watch moo wander around.
There is something about sitting there, hearing the breeze flow over the hill, birds chirping along with the wind chimes, and listening to music about popping tops and fried chicken that let you know you’re doing life right.
Another fine weekend at Morning Bray Farm. I’m feeling blessed.
April 14, 2014 at 10:11 am
It sounds wonderful, well, except for the entire electric fence incident. (Bad, Don!) Having spent much time on military bases I favored the donkey nature parade over the more formal military one…. I love your guest article! I am so jealous!
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April 14, 2014 at 10:40 am
Seriously, one family shouldn’t be that good lookin’. :o)
So nice to “meet” you, Deb. I know the magic that you speak of. Memories of my one visit to Morning Bray Farm (and cuddle time with my special love, Ellesworth) still brings a contented smile to my face. It was a piece of heaven then. The new Morning Bray looks even more blissful.
As for big brothers…they’re all the same. A weird and crazy mix of protective and sadistic.
Enjoy your visit!! Wish I was there. :o)
Carolynn
A Glowing Ember
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April 14, 2014 at 11:05 am
Thanks Debbie for the update! Was wondering how everyone was settling in………….answer is quite nicely! I cannot believe you fell for the fence prank. :o)
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April 14, 2014 at 12:32 pm
Nice to get to know you, Debbie. I have the same kind of big brother! Funny how different Don looks in that picture, now that I know that side of him. Virginia sure does look like paradise in your photos.
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April 14, 2014 at 4:18 pm
Enjoyed reading your (Deb’s) and you, all three had a terrific time together over the past weekend. Good to see some of my critter grandchildren in the pictures and on top of all, three of you! You and Don resemble a lot with your smiles and eyes…
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April 14, 2014 at 6:41 pm
Hi Deb! Glad you had such a good time, despite the prank by Don. (BAD Don, bad!!) Surely you can think of a way to return the favor by the next time you visit him? I’m thinking the only way he wasn’t shaken by the fence is that he’s really an alien. He did live near area 51 in NM, remember?
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April 15, 2014 at 9:48 am
Well hi Deb! Glad you posted, maybe now Justina will get back to blogging!
Such a beautiful place, looks peaceful with that gazebo and the trees. Would love to see a photo of it in the summer when the vines are leafed out…hint hint…
And I miss Morning Bray donkey pics. Just sayin’. Say hi to Nigel for me!
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April 15, 2014 at 10:08 am
So nice to read an update on Morning Bray Farm – thank you Debbie! Big brothers are cheeky monkeys – I’m visiting mine next week and will watch out for electric fences (though I remember my brother doing that exact same trick on me when I was about eight!).
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April 17, 2014 at 12:17 pm
Thanks for the update Deb! So great to see how MB Farm is developing – looks so pretty and inviting! Loved seeing Harriet looking so healthy and happy. Glad you survived the electric fence trick – there sure are a lot of ways to trick people with those. One I DEFINITELY remember involved touching one while you stood in a puddle … OUCH!
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April 21, 2014 at 10:36 am
Don, you naughty person, you….
What a wonderful guest post! Glad to see that everything is going well on the new version of Morning Bray Farm!
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April 21, 2014 at 11:11 am
I miss Justina and Dons blog updates so I was very happy to get your newsy update full of pictures! Nice to meet you Deb. I’m surprised they didn’t have you leading a donkey through the woods! 😉
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