Friday, November 27, 2009

A Time for Giving Thanks

Looking back at the events of the past year, I have so much to be thankful for. It's hard to comprehend all that has been accomplished in such a short time. Three horses, all knocking at death's door, were saved. It was because of an amazing group of people - some of which we have never met - who supported us, encouraged us, and helped us push on through the tough times. I cannot even begin to describe how thankful I am for everyone who has helped our cause.

To start, Dan has been utmost supportive with everything that has happened here at the farm. His drive to do what's best for the animals is unrivaled; I do not know of a more compassionate person. With his constant, unwavering support, he has stood by my side at each step along the journey. I couldn't have done any of it without him.

My family, who has always believed in me. Thanks Mom and Dad for always being there and encouraging me every step of the way.

My faithful friends, thanks for listening to me when I needed it most and always having that shoulder available to cry on, although I have probably borrowed those shoulders more than my fair share. I couldn't have gotten through it without you!

My wonderful farm "staff", the veterinarians and farriers who have helped out our animals and literally saved their lives. Without your compassion and expertise, they wouldn't be here today.

My amazing students, who have put in more than their fair share of help around here, between assisting with the rescues, bottlefeeding orphaned piglets, and taking over feedings for me when I had the flu, you girls rock!

To everyone who has supported Faith, Linus and Pet, I really cannot express my gratitude towards your contributions. We couldn't have done any of this without you.

And finally, to my lovely Faith... I knew from the first moment I saw you that you were something special, and it didn't take long for you to prove it. You are truly a miracle and you have touched so many lives. I have laughed, cried and enjoyed every step along the way in your journey. Your recovery has been emotional and educational, and I have learned so much from you in just nine short months. Even though you'll never know it, you're my hero.

Faith & Julie ~ The First Night ~ February 2, 2009


We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!
~Julie, Dan, Faith and Friends!
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8 comments:

  1. Julie,
    Awwww we love you! And Faith! :] You have taught us so much over the past year.. maybe just the summer! lol And its amazing to be with someone who gives every animal a second chance and never stops fighting! We have loved every minute at the barn helping you with all the animals even if we had to get up at crazy hours and feed piglets! But when we were doing that we were laughing and having a good time! We are always there for you and (Farmer) Dan whenever you need us. You should always know that all you have to do is call or text us and we will be there, no matter the time :]Sorry for not writing them individualy but this is better! It's hard for us to write how we feel out.. but you know! We love you, Big Sissy! <3
    ~Lambert, Margaret, & Goose! :]

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  2. HI JULIE, thank you, thank you, thank you.
    After a very uneventful and quiet Thanksgiving
    I read your update and realized what giving is
    all about, you amaze all of us with your love
    and caring and determination....Great picture
    of you and Dan, and to have his support and
    that of your family,you are truly blessed,and
    so are we to have been lucky enough to be part
    of all your wonderful stories and updates on
    all the ups and downs..can,t wait to see more,
    and definetaly will come to visit your farm
    soon.
    When I saw the picture of you and FAITH,
    ( PRICELESS) the bond between the two of you
    is beyond words, and the picture shows it all,
    the look in Faith's eyes saying you saved my
    life, it sure brought tears to my eyes and
    can't stop looking at it.You should frame that
    one cause surely someday you will write about
    FAITH'S story of survival ( we hope )Plus it
    would bring to light the overwhelming rate of
    animal abuse and neglect, and hopefully we can
    do our small part to help.
    Take Care , RITA, EPPING,N.H.

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  3. We are so thankful for you too. What you've done for especially Faith, but Linus and Pet as well, has been amazing. I was starting to get worried and was hoping you were ok, since you hadn't posted for a while, but I'm glad to see that you are ok. You look beautiful in that pic and you guys make such a great couple!

    So glad you had a good Thanksgiving! We did too! :)

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  4. I also hope you put Faith's story on paper for the world to read. Your efforts, and those of your "support staff" ("Team Faith" ;o) have resulted in a story that is nothing short of amazing. This is the stuff of which Hallmark Movie Channel movies are made. Seriously.

    Happy holidays to all of you.

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  5. Oh my god... Dan's a cutie patootie! I think we've just found someone more handsome than your farrier!

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  6. Looking at that picture of the first night just brings tears to my eyes, even so much more than when she was first rescued. I can just see the pain and confusion in her eyes and the gratefulness to be so gently cradled. A modern day black beauty story and I do truly hope you turn Faith's story into a children's book that could help other horses. Thanksgiving for Julies in this world.

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  7. I too was worried when you hadn't updated the Blog in a while. Glad to hear that you had a nice Thanksgiving. Dan surely is a great guy, there need to be more in the world like him.
    What a difference in Faith, from the first photo to now! She looks so tired, and worried in the first one...now she looks happy and proud.
    You really should put this past year into a book...

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  8. You and Faith are my favorite rescue story EVER! I check your blog everyday, and I am soooo happy for Faith and you for coming together.

    This is also a really great "Thankful" letter!

    Keep on keepin' on.

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