“So many beautiful things to see in Maria’s videos. I love how Fate watches Maria closely, waiting for “Get the sheep!” The sheep and donkeys seem to love the routine; it’s soothing to watch them head for the pasture, Zinnia and her happy self running around, and Zip and his happy self watching all that’s going on. It’s a beautiful life!”   – Karla, Blog Reader.

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Karla’s appreciation for Maria’s Monday video is not just a pleasant viewing experience, it’s a deep connection.  It’s a reflection of our own lives, with all its imperfections and joys. We acknowledge the challenges we face, but we also recognize the privilege of being in our own little paradise.

We believe we have the right to be happy and hope to inspire others to find their own happiness. That is the point of Maria’s work and, hopefully, mine. It’s not just about watching, it’s about feeling and living the experiences.

(Photo above, Zinnia in the stream, a happy girl.)

Karla’s words beautifully capture the essence, promise, and aspiration of bedlamfarm.com.

Zip resting on my knee. He makes me happy.

While I have not always consistently upheld its purpose, I am very much on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Karla’s insight encapsulates the very soul of the farm — of Maria, me, the donkeys, the dogs, and the farm itself.

Despite the tension, chaos, and division surrounding us and others, we stand firm in our pursuit of happiness and our insistence on doing good rather than fighting, arguing, and hating.

We hope our story can inspire anyone reading this to find their own happiness amidst their challenges, and their compassion for others.

Being happy does not mean being oblivious. We know where we are and what is happening around us, and we will both be gone from here one way or another, one day or another. But that doesn’t mean we can’t find happiness and share it now. That is what Maria’s video, the farm, and the blog are about at the core.

Thanks, Karla, for feeling that and sharing that idea of happiness.

This morning was gray yet beautiful. I took Zinnia and Fate for a walk back to the woods. I saw a lot of happiness, peace, and beauty this morning, and I wanted to share it with you. Come along if you can.

Today, I’m going to the food pantry to take pictures of the new truck unloading produce and food from the pantry distribution center. Pictures give me and hopefully you a special feeling for this special place.

Maria volunteers to help get food on the shelves. Then I’m back home to take Zip to the vet for a routine check. I’ll share the results.

This Wildflower is beautiful to the end.

Fate at rest. She is a happy creature following her mysterious dreams.

Flowers make me happy.

My raised garden bed is coming to life. This makes me very happy.

Right in our backyard, this sight gives me peace and hope for the world.

Our pasture apple tree against a beautiful Spring sky is a wonderful way to begin the day.