Requiem

It is funny how things happen that suddenly make you so aware of the passing of time. I have so many memories tied to Molly. It will be so strange to come home and not have her warm silent presence there. I remember milking her early in the morning. The kittens would crowd around hoping for a squirt of milk. I remember the smells - the iodine wash, the barn smells, warm milk. I remember papa calling her and her slow saunter in to her stanchion. She was always so patient and motherly. When she was upset, she would gently put her foot into the milk bucket, or onto papa's lap. I loved how she would never leave the pasture unless she was in heat, and then would always find a way out. I remember finding her missing, and always knowing to go over to Keiths, because she had found a pal. I remember trudging through the snow day after day in the winter to bring her hay and water, and she would always be standing with a pile of snow on her back looking miserable. Seeing her so strong always made me re-evaluate my selfish thoughts of not wanting to be out in the cold. In the summer, she put up stolidly with millions of nasty flies. I remember her calves. All of which were taken away. When they were gone, she would bellow throughout the night. Some people will say that animals do not have souls, but when you looked into Molly's big brown eyes, you could see her spirit. We will never forget you Molly Blue Sky. Rest in Peace.