The world didn’t end last month, but it sort of did at
Cricket Meadow Farm with the recent loss of two dear pets. I know, I know…this
space has been dedicated to a few too many critters. But when you have loved
and cared for an animal for a dozen years or more, it’s hard not to become
attached.
We lost our old faithful Golden Retriever, Buck, six weeks
ago. Then, three weeks after that, Nick, our loyal and friendly Billy goat, almost
canine in his attachment to us, passed away. In the fall, we said goodbye to
Rusty the Rooster. The one who stood by to ease the passing of Tucker, our precious
little rescue goat who died a year ago.
It’s funny how much personality a “brute beast” displays.
How fond they can become of the hand that feeds them. How much life and joy
they bring to a barnyard. Like people, each one is different in the way they
interact with us and with each other. I am not suggesting that I see them as
equal to humans. I do have the perspective of having lost to death very dear
and close family and friends. I remember after my brother’s death a friend said
to my mother, “I know just how you feel. We lost our dog last week.” We were
shattered. But, in her defense, she meant well. She THOUGHT she knew our pain.
She had yet to suffer close human loss.
So, while I know that a pet is just that, and is never
guaranteed to be with us more than a handful of years, we pour into them each
day, our love and affection. Hearts get involved. In my experience, since I was
a child, all of the animals in our lives have brought a vibrancy to our days.
Livestock equals life. And it becomes so obvious when that life is gone. They
fill a space that nothing else can. I read a saying the other day, “I love
animals…it’s people I can’t stand.” While I don’t embrace that sentiment, I do
“get it.” Our beloved pets never disappoint, just deliver, day after day,
unbridled affection and faithfulness.
At Cricket Meadow, to our departed pets, we say farewell,
R.I.P., thanks for the memories. Which will long remain, along with the paw and
hoof prints on our hearts.
HEART HEALING CREAMY TOMATO SOUP WITH GRILLED CHEESE
CROUTONS
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
4 cups chicken stock
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup orzo
1/2 cup heavy cream
Grilled cheese croutons for topping
In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add
onions and cook until tender. Stir in broth, tomatoes, salt and pepper. Bring
to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. In a separate pan, cook
orzo. When cooked, add to soup. Stir in the cream and cook for 10 more minutes.
Serve with crusty grilled cheese sandwiches cubed on top.
COMFORT FOOD CREAMED DRIED BEEF ON TOAST
10 ounces dried beef
6 tablespoons butter
1 cup onion, minced
6 tablespoons flour
4 cups hot milk
8 slices thick sliced bread, toasted
Pour boiling water over beef to remove salt. Let stand 10
minutes. Drain and pat dry. In a large saucepan, melt butter. Add onions and
cook until tender. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in
hot milk, stirring until thick. Add beef and heat through. Serve over toast.
PAWPRINT BARS
1 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 eggs
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups walnuts, chopped
1-1/2 bags chocolate chips or chunks
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars. Beat in vanilla
and eggs. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt. Stir in nuts and chocolate.
Spread batter in a greased 8 by 12 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25
minutes. Cool and cut into squares.
