Sunrise is a large property in which neglected, abused, and unwanted animals are free to live their lives in the way all living beings should; in happiness and harmony. Mindy is the founder of the sanctuary and is such a kind person. She greeted us very warmly and just hung out socializing with all of us visitors. I am so appreciative of the amazing things she does and I will continue to support her work in all the ways I'm able.
As soon as we walked up there were several geese and ducks waddling about greeting us with quacks and honks. We immediately made our way to a nearby table where we laid our bread, apples, and grapes that we brought to feed to the animals. The turkeys were around the table along with lots of ducks, geese, and chickens. One turkey in particular, Hilda I believe, was so sweet and friendly! Annabella and I hunched down to pet her, she lowered herself in delight as we stroked her for several minutes. I'd never been so close to a live turkey let alone caressed one.
Micah had a lot of fun tossing bread to the turkeys and other birds while Belly, Maggie and I marveled at the sight of so many gorgeous animals living in peace with one another.
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| Turkey Love. |
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| She really loved the attention! And we loved giving it! |
Suddenly, from the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of shimmering black and crisp white. Behold Wesley. A humongous, gorgeous, gentle cow who loves apple cider. We walked upon the large group gathered around him; everyone in amazement at his size and the fact that he was guzzling apple cider! I mean this guy is big. Really big. His back stood higher than most everyone there and I can't even begin to guess his weight. Wesley was rescued at two months of age. Rescued from a life that would have resulted in torture and death. He was destined for the veal crate. Luckily Mindy convinced the farmer to sell Wesley to her and now he will live happy, free, and loved!
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| Wesley. Beautiful. Gentle. Giant. |
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| He was so warm, she enjoyed giving him some love! |
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| He loved the cider. I mean who doesn't love apple cider?!?! |
We ventured to meet the sweet pig, he loved getting attention and some apples and grapes from Micah! Annabella made friends with a goat. She fed him grapes and even after the grapes were gone he stuck around to hang out with our precious girl!!
We made our way to another barn where the horses, sheep, and llamas were. We walked in to find Dan the Draft horse munching a delicious pumpkin pie. The sheep and llamas were a little hesitant to receive attention, but I did have one black sheep run up to me about 3 times, sniff the apple in my hand, give me a funny little head turn, and run off again! We had the pleasure of meeting Roscoe as well. Now I'm not too sure what he is really, a mule or a donkey, but I know that he IS a sweetheart. He gently nibbled the apple I offered him and stood by to receive a lot of ear scratches and rubs!
It was such an incredible day. Despite the less the perfect weather, everyone there had such positive attitudes and great energy. I felt so connected with all the visitors. We had all come together to give thanks and appreciation to the animals and to those who care for them. Just years ago I would have eaten animals just like these guys, but now how could I ever eat a cheeseburger after meeting Wesley?!?! For me it's just not a possibility.
I went to the Sunrise Sanctuary a vegan and I left a vegan. But upon leaving something inside of me just burns much more fervently. I feel much more thankful for own life. Thankful for the lives of the animals. Thankful for people like Mindy and all of those working for Sunrise. Thankful that I could share the experience with my family. These animals are just a fraction of the others who will end up in factory farms and slaughterhouses. But, educating and experiencing are the keys to change. I can not wait to go back again, or to donate whatever I am able.
Thank you Sunrise Sanctuary for helping me appreciate life that much more.
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