Lament for a Forested Acre

“Many of these trees were my friends, creatures I have known from nut and acorn. Nobody cares for the woods anymore."


~TREEBEARD
The Lord of the Rings
The Two Towers

Many of us still do.

Can't We All Just Get Along?

Rachmaninoff gets along fine with turkeys, groundhogs and lots of other critters.

If only humanity could do the same.

A peaceful and happy Thanksgiving to all.

Man of the Forest

My Maine Coon cat Rachmaninoff, aka Man of the Forest, is happiest in the woods. At 17 he still insists on going out, even in the coldest weather. His powerful connection to nature sustains him.

A purebred Maine Coon, Rock has a very sweet personality, is highly intelligent, dog-like in his devotion, and he can be a real clown. He was given up as a kitten simply because he was not perfect. So much for having "papers."

If you'd like to share your life with a companion animal, please consider adopting. There are so many wonderful animals out there just waiting for someone like you to come along. Check out the Medfield Animal Shelter.

I’m Just Wild About Harry

As a lover of all animals, it's difficult to single any out, but dogs are at the top of my list. Recently, I had the privilege of meeting Harry, a 5-month-old Golden Retriever puppy with an extraordinary presence. Extremely intelligent, unusually composed for his age, Harry has show dog lines, a gorgeous coat and can hold his own in rousing play with full-grown dogs twice his size.

Harry's owner points to good genes, but Harry is special because his owner is, too. He gives this little guy plenty of freedom, is very patient and loving, and treats him with a high degree of respect. Maybe that's why all it takes is a whistle to get Harry back on track when he wanders a little too far.

When I asked if I could take his picture, Harry came when called and then posed.

"I'm Just Wild About Harry" (1921)
by Noble Sissle and Eubie Blake

Find Your Sanctuary

Within you
there is a stillness
and a sanctuary
to which you can retreat
at any time
and be yourself.

~ Herman Hesse
1877-1962

Better Times Ahead for Greyhounds

At long last, the cruel sport of greyhound racing will come to an end in Massachusetts, thanks to those who voted Yes on Question 3, banning greyhound racing.

Organizations such as Greyhound Friends, in Hopkinton, MA, have worked hard over the years to save many racetrack greyhounds and place them in loving homes. Word spread quickly that these gentle, sweet dogs made wonderful family pets and deserved better. On November 4th voters let it be known that their mistreatment would no longer be tolerated.

Greyhounds were once prized as royalty by Egyptian Pharaohs. Now, these noble canines may get the chance to live like kings and queens again – as beloved family pets.

Thanks to greyhoundpictures.com for this terrific photo. Visit them for some excellent information on the breed.

I'll Sleep When I'm Dead

Daylight Savings Time has ended. Given the choice between having an extra hour of light to spend outdoors or an another hour of sleep – and I do like my sleep – I’d still have to agree with Warren Zevon, may he rest in peace.

These 19th century graves are decorated with ivy, an evergreen that stands for eternity.

I'll Sleep When I'm Dead (1976).