Sunday, November 20, 2011

Dairy Farm Adventures


An abandoned delivery truck, obsolete processing equipment, and stacks of milk crates inside a crumbling brick structure welcome visitors to a tract of land aptly known as The Dairy Farm. Dog-loving folks visit not for a glimpse into the past but for a chance to enjoy the company of their four-legged friend in an outdoors environment. The landscape is diverse with dense woodland and flowering shrubs near the front of the property while marshland and winding creeks are found at the farthest reaches but visitors are few as this hidden gem is known mainly to folks in the dog community and that's the way we like it. Erin's body language goes into overdrive as the defunct dairy is neared; the anticipation of the outing causes her tail to move in a blur while she prances about as if walking on hot coals. Once the car door is opened she leaps down without hesitation and takes in the first of a thousand scents while giving me a look that says "Hurry up already."


Erin chooses one of several routes and leads the way while I follow closely; if too much distance is put between us she is recalled immediately. Generally there's no need for a leash as threats and distractions found in the city are fewer so the leather leash is put away and she is free to explore at will. Lizards, birds, and fiddler crabs are more than happy to oblige her curious nature but it's the thriving squirrel population that keeps her active and happy. She lowers her profile like a lion stalking a gazelle while slowly approaching her prey and when the time is right breaks into a sprint towards the unsuspecting squirrel. She is fast but not fast enough thus Erin is left staring upwards at the mocking squirrel but a positive attitude is maintained and she moves on to the next great chase when the time is right.


The soaring temperature and humidity of summer affected humans and animals alike thus mud puddles were a welcome sight for Erin. Whenever possible I steered her clear of the disgusting pools of water but on occasions she ignored my pleas and plopped down in the muck to cool off after running in the searing heat. Thoughts of a poisonous snake lying in the puddle crossed my mind but thankfully one never appeared and after a soothing soak Erin exited dripping wet, hair matted, and paws caked in mud; she was one happy girl albeit filthy and in need of a liberal dousing with shampoo. Unfortunately shade options are limited on the dairy farm but a massive oak tree with overhanging branches does the trick nicely; this ancient marvel towers over everything else while making a nice reference point for anyone who becomes disoriented. This is arguably the largest oak tree in the area and its majestic arms cast a large patch of shade for those seeking refuge from the sun; Erin laid near me and together we watched the world slowly revolve.


While not an avid swimmer Erin loved being in the water especially if canine brethren joined in on the fun so on several occasion's she ended up wrestling near the muddy banks, chasing balls, and playing tug of war in the shallow end. She made a great cheerleader urging others to swim further out then to return for another round of playtime while I kept an eye out for alligators despite this not being a known swimming hole. The dairy farm is a special place for dogs while they are alive thus it's no surprise to see crosses with collars hanging upon them, burial markers inscribed with names, and flowers honoring them after they transition to the other side. Under a broad tree near the entrance one finds a collection of tributes to man's best friend while  simple crosses can be found scattered far and wide across the farm; any beloved friend would be lucky to be buried there and I find it very touching to read words of remembrance.



Low-lying areas of marshland is revealed to those who venture further ahead and it's worth the trek to reach this point; offshoots from the Savannah river casually snake through the area and extend outward for as far as the eye can see. Wading birds greet visitors but otherwise it's eerily quiet except for the clanging of Erin's metallic tags and a continuous breeze rustling the vegetation. Compact hard soil is replaced by mushy ground that sinks under the weight of any creature who trods upon it and wildlife prints along the pathway is a reminder that man and dog does not rule this tract of land. We continue along the route to our intended destination a few miles away and eventually reeds taller than humans are encountered; the imposing growth prohibits seeing anything other than what lies ahead but the brackish scent filling the air informs us that water lines both side of the pathway.


Erin and I continue towards the furthermost point of our journey when suddenly a clearing in the vegetation reveals all...Two strands of rope tied between trees with attached multicolored pieces of cloth flapping in the wind. These strips in various degrees of tatter from mother natures abuse are inscribed with personal thoughts, reflections, famous quotes and tributes to beloved animals; a waterproof bag with magic markers and blank clothes inside dangles from a tree if anyone wishes to make their thoughts known. Photos of deceased dogs with touching sentiments, miniature scrolls bound with ribbons, and other personal effects can be found as well and the atmosphere of this shrine is pure love and serenity. The dairy farm was a magical setting for Erin as it offered everything a dog could wish for while giving us so many memorable days together. Great times indeed! RIP Erin!!




33 comments:

  1. What a special dog and a special time together! Love the post and the pictures!

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  2. Thank yoou for taking us on this awesome adventure,,I almost feel i was with you two,,,,As always,,,XOXOXOXOXO

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  3. @Lynne Yes Erin was a special girl and we always had the best times together. Lots of fun!! Thanks for visiting :)

    @Bongo Thank you for coming along on this trip down memory lane. Always appreciate your support. Take care my friend :)

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  4. SO sad that she's gone, but what a lot of love she shared and received. She lived in a happy doggy world of acceptance. Great photos of rememberance.

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  5. That would have been so much fun for me!

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  6. Each moment spent with Erin is etched on your mind forever and that's a tribute to love and friendship. I love reading about Erin and your adventures and can picture her stalking the squirrel like a lion,her tail wagging in a blur and can totally see her 'Hurry up already' looks :) Thank you for sharing her stories with us, have a great day and take care friend.

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  7. @Crystal Mary It is sad that Erin is gone but she had the best life any dog could ask for and that help eases my sorrow. Thanks for visiting!!

    @J.R. It would have been fun for anyone who loved nature and dogs!!

    @Sulekkha The pics I took along the way helps so much to refresh my memory and fill in the gaps. Time erodes memories thus it's important to get these stories down on paper while I'm able. Thanks for visiting!! Take care :)

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  8. I used to love dogs too, but the older we get we realise dog loving is more about reponsibilty. We have to be able to give them freedom and time. Good Job, u had give all that :)and are giving now too in this blog

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  9. As I read your post I kept imagining Erin running after those squirrels and plopping onto the muddy water to cool herself. Considering so many have such precious memories of their best friend in that farm, it is indeed a sacred place. Have you put up any mementos of Erin on that line? I really love to read about your adventures with Erin, David. It is like even I know her through you. God bless you.



    http://rimlybezbaruah.blogspot.com/2011/11/alone-no-more.html

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  10. What a true friend Erin was.. No matter where she is her spirit is very much alive.

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  11. @Jerly Dogs are a big commitment and too often they end up being neglected and abused...Erin never had that issue and neither does my current dog Cody. Thanks for visiting!!

    @Rimly I plan on putting up a pic of Erin on the tree very soon. Haven't visited without her as it wouldn't be the same but plans are in the work.

    @Savira She was the best friend I could ever hope for and she lives on in my heart and soul :)

    @Geets Well said...Thank you!!

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  12. You have a great talent for taking one down memory lane! The picture of Erin 3rd one down is such a pretty picture of her...

    As I read the different posts about Erin, I cannot help but to have visions of her crusading through different towns...almost in a children's story-tale kind of way!

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  13. I did chuckle when I saw Erin lying in the mud puddle and then the pictures of the water. Having a dog that likes to do the very same thing I can just imagine her lolling about in it, before shaking herself down, spraying it everywhere.

    Amazing memories and images - really enjoyed reading this.

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  14. @Amy Thanks for the kind words!! I find it easy to write when you're passionate about the subject.

    @Sj The pics of Erin lying in the muck show her fondness for water (no matter the cleanliness) LOL She certainly would shake water upon anyone or anything near her...Aah I miss getting sprayed :)

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  15. Erin was really special! I love the pictures - they call me to them and I instantly feel like hugging Erin. You really were lucky to have him around. Thanks for sharing your stories with us David! They are heart warming!

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  16. Smiles... thatz way erin brings on reader's face :)

    Awesome read as ever !!

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  17. I could just imagine Erin jumping and rolling in the muddy water! She must have had a great time exploring all these places with you. You have shared so many special moments together, David! RIP Erin-girl!

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  18. @Kriti Erin was one special girl and she would have undoubtedly enjoyed a hug from you!! Glad you like the pics and thanks for visiting!! :)

    @Jyoti She brought smiles and laughter to the world; she was an expert in that category. Appreciate you visiting!!

    @Nelieta Gotta admit she had much fun in her life Nwhile I had every bit as much being by her side. If Erin was happy then I was too :)

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  19. Hello David,

    I found your blogspot through Crystal Mary. I'm so glad I did!

    I'm a huge dog lover!!!

    Both you and Erin shared a special love for one another. I always think dogs understand people much better than people do!

    Not to mention, if we all behaved toward one another with the love and care the a dog give us, it would be a much better world!

    Here's a link to a You Tube Video called God and Dog. I hope you will like it as much as I do.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H17edn_RZoY&feature=player_embedded

    I've added myself to follow you now. Hope you will stop by some time and visit me too.

    I hope the rest of the week is enjoyable for you.

    GOD BLESS! - Kerrie

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  20. What beautiful memories you have. Of all your posts this is my fave so far. What a beautiful place for dogs.

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  21. David, I love the photo's layered within your story with Erin..it feels like the lazy,hazy days of summer. I think the first photo says so much about you and Erin...best friends, enjoying a beautiful day where Erin can run free in a doggy wonderland. She looked so comfy in the waterholes...and even thougth you were concerned, you let her be, ever watchfull over her well being. In your story of sharing this special place there was a sense of Love and Memorial to all those who had walked these pathways before...what a wonderful tribute to the Spirit of Place and all who love being there. For Erin, to run, play and just hang with you under that big tree...not encumbered by a leash...is the true essence of " A dog's Life"...and it makes it easier to chase squirrels. Loved being with you and Erin again my dear friend...Always...

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  22. @Kerrie So glad you found your way to my little corner of the blogging world!! It's said that everyone has one forever dog and for me that was certainly Erin...we shared a special bond and so many wonderful moments.

    I've seen that video and own the book related to the clip as well. I'm following your blog and look forward to future posts.Blessings!!

    @Mari Thanks for visiting and I'm glad you enjoyed the post. It's a special place for dogs as Erin could attest to. Take care :)

    @Leeann That first photo is a fave of mine; a friend walking behind us took the shot and later mentioned it. I fell in love with it from the moment I saw it...two best friends enjoying life and each others company.

    Erin had a dog's life as I ensured she run and be true to her canine/wolf ancestors...Pity the poor dogs confined to a house for their entire life; Not Erin!! I took Cody there and allowed him to run free...he made a great time as all dogs do. Even bunnies would enjoy the dairy farm ;) Take care my friend!!!

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  23. Love the pictures - great memories of Erin

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  24. Oh look even Erin appreciated a good mud wrap... (soak)

    Looks like a fun filled day for you and Erin, thanks for continuing to share your stories of the days you spent with Erin.

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  25. Looks like a great place to spend outdoors. Lots of open space to run around and enjoy nature. I loved the pics :)

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  26. @Mum Thanks for the kind words!!

    @Debbie Like all pampered ladies Erin enjoyed her soothing mud soaks...Sometimes too much :)

    @Jessica The farm was a fabulous place to be outdoors; something for everyone and not many folks. Appreciate you stopping by!!

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  27. I love the way this girl adapted to different settings - she was one hell of a lady!

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  28. Such a grand dog and best friend you had. what a wonderful place to play. I love the photos and wish I could play with Yona in such a place...<3

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  29. @Corinne Erin was very adaptable and seemed at ease in most situations especially those that involved water and muck. A real lady!!

    @Jan Erin was certainly my everything and I loved watching her be herself at places like the farm. Any dog would love roaming the property. Thanks for visiting!!

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  30. What a great place to take a dog!! Your story was beautifully written. :)

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  31. Rachel It's a great place to be outdoors with man's best friend thus the repeated visits over the years. I appreciate your kind words and time spent here. Blessings!!

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