Spring was firmly established. It was warm in the morning sunshine, cool when the breezes whirled by. The sky was bright and blue, the clouds puffy and white and the meadowlarks were singing. The farm teemed with new life – calves, little piglets and baby chicks. The barn cats had kittens, the pet dog produced puppies, and the resident wildlife followed suit in their own style.
This morning the big news was the birth, during the night, of a little colt. My Dad made the announcement at breakfast. Mother and offspring were well and enjoying the day in the fenced paddock behind the barn.
As with most farm kids, even little ones, there were chores to do. I attacked mine with a vengeance, then announced to my mother that I was going to the barn yard to see if I could catch a glimpse of the new colt. She nodded her consent but added “Be quiet, Marjie. The mare will be protective of the new colt, and you must not upset her”. With her admonition ringing in my ears, I hurried away. Up to this point my day’s record was unblemished. I had…
Done my chores,
Told Mother where I was going,
Said what I wished to do, and
Listened to her “Be careful” list …
BUT … Continue reading