There are few better ways to greet the day than with a donkey greeting. First, Simon’s bray. Then Lulu and Fanny think about it a  bit – donkeys are a bit like cats, they do things in their own time, when they feel like it, not just when you want them. They do come running for Maria, for her attention, for the carrots and corn dobs in the plastic bags she brings. Then, to be brushed, touched, talk to. I never saw a donkey in my life until a few years ago, and now I cannot imagine life with these loving and intelligent and spiritual creatures. Everyone needs a donkey.