Small Town, USA

There's something about a small town that tugs at my heart.  Perhaps it's because it's not burdened with all of the fast food chains or Wall Mart smack in the middle of the center.  The one thing I noticed in this particular small town in Ohio is that everybody's lawn is perfect.  Every blade of grass is cut perfecty.  There is something about a town where people come together and visit, hang their clothes on a clothes line, and take life a little slower.  It's refreshing.

As I was driving down the road, I saw several things that I had to stop to take a photograph of.  I love barns so I took this shot of a barn next to the road and when I saw the clothes drying in the wind, I even approached the owner of the house if I could take a picture of his clothes.  He said, "sure."

I love that a lot of these houses have fake deer in the yards.  Even some have families of deer.  I love it.  Here are pictures of what I found interesting in Jackson Center, Ohio.  For more, click HERE.

The Gentle Barn

I love to take field trips to new and interesting places.  I've always wanted to visit The Gentle Barn and today I decided it was time to go and see all of the lucky animals living on their farm for life.

As they describe on their website, "The Gentle Barn Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1999 as a safe haven and place of recovery for abused farm animals and children. We are home to over 120 rescued animals and we are host to at-risk, inner-city and special needs kids.

Our unique treatment philosophy rehabilitates animals and connects their stories of survival and healing to the personal experiences of at-risk and special needs children who have suffered physical, mental or emotional trauma.

Through the interaction with our animals, the children learn forgiveness, courage, strength, leadership skills, trust, empathy and kindness. The healing that takes place is truly miraculous!"

It was a sight to see.  It felt nice to witness all of the animals living in a safe environment for life.  They are only open to the public each Sunday from 10-2pm,  so I wanted to take the opportunity to hug a cow, pet a pig and watch them interact with each other.  I would recommend a visit if you are in the area.  It's a great place to take the kids.  For more photographs of my visit, click HERE.