2 years ago we bought this patch of bare land. It had never been occupied. It was love at first sight for this site.
After one year of working on it every weekend, then another year of living in a trailer on the land, it went from this
To this
From this
To this.
And this
To this
It is not just a home for us, this is the home of Rivendell Farmed Animal Sanctuary. We rescue animals that were abused, or just need a forever home. We started with 2 dogs, then rescued a third dog, then 4 chickens, 2 pigs, 4 goats and 2 rabbits.
Now that the home was finished and we were all moved in, and the sanctuary was well under way, it was time to celebrate what we’d accomplished. It was time, for an Open House
Friends and family came from all over. Our kids came not just to party, but to help. They worked hard building trails, caring for the animals, and cooking for guests.
Rivendell is a place where we let our dreams run. Kelly’s mom, Diane, built a library and a beautiful backyard garden on the north end. We decked out the greenhouse and chicken coop with lights and bling. There are solar lights all over the place and it makes it get pretty magical after the sun sets…
It was a characteristically hot day, but that really is the only option in the summer here. We still got a really nice turn out. Visitors noshed on Kelly’s homemade vegan spread, as well as mediterranean food from our favorite local restaurant.
The kids gave tours of the newly carved trails.
People ate grapes off the vine, and hung out with the animals.
Neighbors met each other for the first time, and people just generally had a nice time enjoying the view.
Some visitors generously offered donations to support our rescue work. We appreciate that so much, and it makes a giant difference to what we can do here. Some of that money will be used to rescue some local ducks that are in a bad situation at the moment. Some also helped with unexpected medical expenses for Lucy the Pig.
Much love to everyone who made the trek out to our little piece of paradise, on a too-hot August day, to send our little boat full of dreams sailing into the future…
Two bits of news:
We are still looking for sponsors for some of our rescues. A sponsorship is a monthly donation to help with the expenses related to that animal, including food, checkups, maintenance. Sponsors get monthly updates on their adopted friend, and pictures. It’s the best way to support Rivendell’s residents,
Also, we are having monthly friend’s table events on the first Saturday of every month. This is an opportunity for people to visit the sanctuary and enjoy a delicious 5 course, hand prepared, plant-based meal. Come early and walk the trails or read a book from the library to one of our animal friends. If interested, reach out and we’ll hold a spot for you.
Thanks so much!
Paul + Kelly
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