Bonnie, my new BFF (Burro Friend Forever!)
Bonnie and Waylon: Two sweet donkeys!
My assignment was with the main cattle herd and domestic donkeys. Before the guests arrived, volunteers spent time with the animals, including Bonnie and Waylon, two of Farm Sanctuary's several donkeys. Have you ever patted and hugged a donkey? Their coats are soft and fuzzy. Despite their past lives being riddled with neglect, Bonnie and Waylon are sweet and friendly, probably from the love and care now given to them at Farm Sanctuary.
Cow's it goin'? Super love for Phoenix the cow.
The main cattle herd was a treat to experience close up: next to people, cows are huge! And just like people, they can be very friendly or shy. Farm Sanctuary has some older cows like Boris, Bernie and Hugo, as well as some youngsters like Elliott and Oliver, who were brought in as calves. As a volunteer, I was fortunate to meet Elliott and Oliver when they were very little - it's amazing how fast cows grow. Must be all that cow's milk! ;-)
Hay, it's Elliott! With Oliver in the background.
Before leaving for the day, I checked on my artwork submitted as part of the auction, which included beautiful animal-themed artwork, jewelry, gift baskets and more. I also talked with a few guests who were curious about the cows on my paintings, from photos taken on earlier visits to Farm Sanctuary. When I created the pieces, I had no idea my assignment would be with the bovines. Sweet!
Beso Hasta 8x8 inches mixed media on canvas © 2011 Kate Dana
This holiday season I am thankful for Farm Sanctuary and the creative opportunities available to me. I love my volunteer friends, the coordinator Sophia, the Farm Sanctuary staff, co-founder Gene Baur, and especially all of the animals. If you always wanted to volunteer with a charitable organization, there's no better time than cow. I mean now. Just do it!