As spring was about to approach, my friend, whose children are older than mine, warned me not to give in and take in baby chicks this spring. She told me that, having a graduating senior, May would be so busy that I would not have time to care for anything besides my children. She also knows that I homeschool my freshman. Did I listen to her? Nope.

We recently adopted a few new hens because their owners were moving. Right after Prom weekend, we welcomed five baby chicks… and then, because I can't say no, we brought home three more baby chicks from a friend, because why not?

In the midst of all our feathery chick love , a puppy found his way into our lives, NOT planned at all. We had been planning to add a livestock guardian dog to the property, but were going to start the search once my son left for college. As fate would have it, my husband discovered the perfect pup right here in our own town.

A sweet local family had rescued a pregnant Great Pyrenees–Anatolian Shepherd Pregnant Mom and was looking to find homes for the puppies. The father's breed is unknown. I sent my son and his friend to "just check it out"—and, well, you can probably guess how that turned out.

I was mucking stalls when I got a FaceTime call: my son’s friend, grinning ear to ear, held up an adorable puppy and said, “You have to get this one, Mrs. DeMamiel.”

The rest is history.

One of the perks of having teenagers? They’re both willing and capable of making a quick run to Tractor Supply for all the puppy essentials.

There have also been a few… creative grooming moments on the farm. Let’s just say some of the animals are sporting bold new haircuts. The shearer told me she would look like a queen, but I miss her fluffy head (sorry, Ginger—you’re still beautiful)

Then a week later, I received a very special arrival, Chyloh—a horse just for me. She’s the first horse I’ve had since I was 12 years old, and I can’t fully express how honored I feel to welcome her into our home.

Chyloh’s previous owner rescued her from a kill pen, likely because of a slight club foot. Although her owner loved her, she didn’t have the time to ride and wanted Chyloh to have a home where she would be cared for and enjoyed as a trail horse. I’m incredibly grateful that she chose me to be that person.

I look forward to growing alongside Chyloh, learning from her, and giving her the safe, peaceful life she deserves.

When we bought this property 12 years ago, I had no idea we would one day be surrounded by so many animals. In the early years, we had just two dogs and a few chickens. As our little farm began to grow, my prayer remained simple—that this place would be one of peace and comfort.

Today, as I look around at the ever-growing number of animals who now call this home, my heart is full. Each one has found refuge here, and in return, they’ve brought us purpose, joy, and countless lessons.

Thank you to my husband for supporting this wild and wonderful dream. I don’t take this calling lightly, and I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to care for these beautiful souls.