Maria sat down to read the mail I brought her from the mailbox – I turn the mail over to her, I just don’t have the mind for it – and she sat down on the porch. She was soon joined by some of her peeps, the border collies, who are curious about everything, took up position on both sides and Flo the barn cat, started flirting at her feet, showing her belly.

I just love the image, our life is bounded by these wonderful animals, and they wish to be a part of our existence. I can’t tell if they are guarding her or checking their fan mail. They are all, I think, keeping Maria company and keeping one eye on the sheep.