The Shannon Foundation Retirement Farm: Mother's Day

'Tis the season to celebrate 'mothers." When we think of Mother's Day we naturally think of our mother or someone else's mother who may have played a big part in our lives. This is the normal way of thinking. However, I don't always like to classify myself as part of the normal.

Tomorrow we observe Mother's Day. I would like to honor those mom's who have children who are not of the human variety. One in particular comes to mind - Rhonda Stephens.

I have only met this lady once in person but have followed her on Facebook for quite some time. She is mom to many creatures of the non-human species. I think of her dedication to these beautiful beings. In the cold she feeds them and tends to their needs. When the weather is hot, she is sure her home is cool enough for all the seniors living with her. She tends to their medical needs and she makes that difficult decision when it is time for them to cross over the Rainbow Bridge. She grieves when they do make that journey. Her life is dedicated to making sure these once unwanted creatures are loved for their remaining days on earth. She truly is my "hero mom."

I also think about the "mom animals" who take in unwanted babies and mother them. Mama dogs who parent kittens; mama cats who parent puppies. We see this quite often. Parenting through the differences. The human race could take a few pointers from these animals.

So tomorrow, let's honor the mom's who give their all for the animal population. Let's honor the animal mom's who also live their purpose - mothering.

For Rhonda, I know she would appreciate a donation to the rescue farm she loves and serves, The Shannon Foundation, http://www.theshannonfoundation.org/. One $10 donation monthly from all who read this could go a long way in caring for the inhabitants of this rescue farm. I'm sure $10 would not put too much of a crimp in most people's budge. If this is impossible, please share this blog. Who knows who may have some extra dollars to share.

And for those beautiful "mom animals," how about an extra treat to honor them?

Of course, Happy Mother's Day to all the human moms reading this. May your day be blessed and happy.

Here are a few of the Shannon Foundation residents wishing you all a

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

P.S. We love you Mama Rhonda!