New Playmates: Chickens and a Horse

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June 9, 2012 by CassieCravings

There are simple things in this world such as chasing chickens and feeding spinach to horses that are pure joy. Maybe it is the simplicity that is calming, refreshing and freeing. Maybe it’s the lack of gadgets in my hands. Maybe it is the Texas June breeze and the chatter of family as we watch the kids play. Whatever it is, it is one of my favorite family activities.

My father-in-law has a bit of land. On this land he has a garden. He has chickens (around 50 of them) that prance about the lot. Eli loves the chickens. They are a perfect play mate: energetic and unpredictable. Sometimes Eli chases the chickens; sometimes they chase him.

a few of the 50 chickens at my father-in-law’s property

Curious neighbor horses peek through the fence to see what is squealing, laughing and singing next door.

Peaches: the neighbor horse

Eli puts quite a show on for the horses. He sings and dances. He pets them. He tries to feed them anything they show interest in, including rocks and sticks. The horses politely decline. They are more interested in the fresh spinach plucked from the garden.

feeding the horse a snack

After running, chasing, playing, laughing and dancing, little Eli finally stops. He is dirty and flushed. He is panting heavily. He whispers through breaths, “I go to my house now. ‘Ipen da door, Mama. Bye Bye, chickens! See ya tomorrow!”

A warm bath and a home-cooked meal by his Abuelita closes the evening.

He is now sleeping more peacefully than he has ever slept.

The chickens and the horses may become a part of our regular routine.

Eli was not quite sure why his Abuelo put this chick in his hands.

But it wasn’t long, and he loved it!

Eli was very gentle with his chick. He is such a loving little boy.