The Farm

Dear Sweet Rowan,

You have enjoyed animals since you sprouted an opinion but on our most recent trip to Texas you just fell deeper in love. We came home to frequent requests from you to "see Pops' cows 'gain" and "drive tractor 'gain." And although we wish we were closer to Fredericksburg so we could pack you up and take you there, the fact is, it's 12 hours away. So instead we talk about all things farm daily and you pretend with your Schleich animals and John Deere tractors that you are there. You call, "Bessie, Maaaaeeee" and in your mind these mammals come out of the brush to find you.



And once you get them to the barn and feed them, this particular cow, Honey, lets you pet her. She's "sawf and has horns."



And in your imaginary world, you also pet the "white one," but in reality she won't let you near her. However, you really like this "white one." So much that you've had me and your dad running all over town trying to find one for your barn that looks like her.



You claim that this "black one get you." This isn't true but maybe we've told you she might.



And this little guy, I think it's a bull, is my new hero because we talk about how his Momma puts him to sleep, which is a complete fabrication of mine. You bought it. She and her baby lay on the ground and they look at the stars and talk about their day and then the Momma cow rubs her baby's back as he drifts off to sleep. You agreed that you could go to sleep like the baby cow without "nee, nee" and we haven't looked back. I hope I never see you on my plate little bull, I'm putting in a good word for you right now.



You also love these little birds, while talk and imaginative play with them usually involves a cat chasing them up the ladder into the barn. You can thank your dad for that. We are allowed to have 4 hens in the city limits here and we are debating getting some to bring a little bit of the farm to you. And to feed our own egg habit.



When we are at Moms and Pops house, you wake up, let us have sip of coffee and then ask to "go see cows." Someone always obliges and off you go, usually with your cousin Mara. I think she's showing you how to "moooo" in this picture.



And then she somehow convinces you to get in the doll stroller so she can push you around. Or maybe it was your idea, who knows.



And I know you looked at these flowers at least twice you were there this spring and this summer you will eat their most delicious fruit. The Peach! The juice will run down your shirt (and stain) and you will pick any within your reach, consuming more peaches in one day than any toddler should.



You're only 2 and I know each time you visit Moms and Pops you are going to enjoy yourself more and more. Maybe they can even get some tractor work out of you someday. There are still so many memories to be made on "the farm" but I didn't want us to forget these. Farm on, little man, farm on.

Love-
Mom