positive thinking

The seventh of April 2020

goats

Social distancing, lockdowns and quarantines are difficult for all. To stay connected, perhaps hold onto hope and find solidarity amongst people across the globe, a Facebook group has emerged called View From My Window. The rules are simple – you post where you are in the world and the view from your window – as we are all must stay inside as much as possible. People from all over the world have posted lovely pictures, but yesterday someone posted one and has kindly given me permission to use it here.

I am pleased to introduce you to Zippy from Killiechronan, Isle of Mull, Scotland and his brother George. Their human friend, Jean O’Donnell shared the first photo and sent along a few others to share.

The third of April 2020

goats

Many years ago, while I was trolling the depths of the internet, before our family ever knew it would eventually relocate to the UK, I discovered something wonderful. It was the Oxford-Cambridge Goat Race, hosted by Spitalfields City Farm in London. Every year, one goat representing Cambridge faces off against one goat representing Oxford race across the farm to a crowd of delighted caprid enthusiasts. It was an instant addition to my bucket list.

About three years ago, I was fortunate enough to be able to attend, and we were lucky enough to enjoy the 2018 and 2019 races as well. The 2020 race has been postponed in light of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, and we hope to see the goats again!

The thirtieth of March 2020

pigs

Pigs have feelings too! Perhaps after a few weeks of March of Pigs you may have noticed that pigs are actually quite expressive. That’s because they feel a wide range of emotions, just like humans. Pigs can feel joy and happiness as well as suffer from negative emotions like sadness and grief. Pigs are not only emotional creatures, but have been observed to show compassion for others, and feel distress at seeing their animal and human friends suffering. They have distinctive personalities, some are shy and some are gregarious just like us. In addition to having excellent memories, it is very likely that pigs have complex feelings and thoughts, and are even able to understand symbolic languages similar to higher primates and dolphins. Amazing!

The twenty ninth of March 2020

pigs

A friend of mine sent this photo along. It reminds me that even though things are totally upside down it is important to take care of yourself. Have a shower, enjoy a film, immerse yourself in a good book, call up an old friend, find an online fitness class, whatever you do to make you feel like you and help you get through.

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The twenty fourth of March 2020

pigs

I hope if you are reading this now that you are safe and well and able to have everything you need to get through the next few weeks or months. Lockdown, quarantine or isolation can be pretty dreary, but luckily we live in times when we are all able to stay connected. Take care, friends and keep washing your hands.

The twenty third of March 2020

goats

Well, as the world is locking down and preparing for the great waiting out of the corona catastrophe, I once again am pausing March of Pigs to bring you a bit of history. I am not sure where this originated from, but one of my friends sent it along and it is too good not to share.

If you are reading this blog, I hope that you and your loved ones are safe and well and that you have a comfy place to shelter and access to all that you need to get through.

The twentieth of March 2020

goats, pigs

Sometimes it is hard to keep to a safe distance. Take Pam, Angela and Ellen here for example – they are not keeping a llama distance apart! With the first day of spring upon us, it can be hard to not get out and about as the world comes back from winter.

However, The Haven Zoo has created an opportunity to spend some extra time with their menagerie! For $5, you can book an enrichment with the animal of your choice! The Haven will send you a video of our furry friends engaging in a special activity or treat, personalised just for you. They also have virtual tours and other opportunities for socially distant, remote activities during social distancing efforts, click here to book.

The nineteenth of March 2020

goats, pigs

We are going to pause our March of Pigs for an opportunity for some quarantine fun and fundraising.

Cooped up inside, being socially distant, canceling plans, routines and holidays can be a huge bummer. Take a break from the chaos and enjoy a virtual tour of The Haven Zoo!

Just like everyone, the Haven is doing its part to support social distancing to stop the spread of coronavirus, and have closed their gates to in-person visitors. However, the Haven relies on donations to keep the animals healthy and fed. So you can support the Haven AND continue to practice good social distancing by booking a virtual tour of the zoo plus a special viewing of feeding time! Book your virtual tour here.

Scientists and public health experts have asked that we all keep at least six feet or two meters apart from one another. That can be a bit difficult to visualize. Perhaps some of our camelid pals from the Haven can help us out – a llama is about six feet long, so maintain a llama distance apart to stay safe and stop the spread! And of course, keep washing your hands.

The eighteenth of March 2020

pigs

Social interactions are a little weird lately. The very few times I have ventured out, I have made sure to keep a safe distance, even from my good friends. These are simple adjustments we all have to make to stay safe. Social distancing supports your community and keeping that 2m or 6 foot distance will help stop the spread. We will all be able to share in an epic high five and hug eventually, but for now keep your distance and wash your hands.