Easter family gathering

It's a grey day, again, in Grey County. Unlike yesterday, which was cold but bright and sunny. I actually got to put my laundry on the line so all our clothes smell outdoorsy. Nice.

We went to a much-needed (after the long, long winter) family gathering last Sunday for Easter. Sandy and Brian put on a fabulous spread that included a huge ham from local butcher Maxwell's Meats and scalloped potatoes. Everyone else pitched in with salads, sides and desserts. I brought a tonne of homemade baked beans.

We had a terrific visit with the Thorntons. We always look forward to catching up with Ed and Shannie (pictured on the left), Paul and Carol Ann and Jennifer and Shawn with their families. Along with all the various and sundry animals. Marley is in the foreground of the above picture and Sadie is the blur zooming by in the back. Ollie cat is in hiding.

I was also able to deliver the second half of Rachel's birthday present, which happened in February. She turned 30 and her request was a sturdy long-handled pitchfork with which she could more easily shovel the substantial amount of poop her five horses produce. Such a romantic.

Of course, I had to festoon the farm implement with ribbons and bows to mark the occasion. Beauty, eh?

After gorging ourselves, some of us trekked out to the barn to visit with the hoofed friends. Here's Shannie, Carol Ann and Rachel (l to r) with Peanut, Rachel's latest addition. He's pretty young and shy, but getting better.

The barn is really an equine palace that the family built together. It has all the creature comforts a horse could ever want.

Charlie, who came with Peanut from Manitoba, took a shine to me, and two of us had some quality nuzzling time. I'm not exactly a horse person, but Rachel has trained these guys to be complete gentlemen.

Anyhow. It always makes my heart happy to be among these kind, generous and goofy people. So grateful for all of them. Until next week.

Gratuitous cat photo courtesy of Wilma, who's looking wary because she's sensing it's time for her annual vet check. Which would be correct for Tuesday. Yikes. I'm sure all will be fine after I lose some blood getting her in the cage. News update: All our five felines are in tip top health. For now. Thank goodness.