This is a remake of a blog entry that I wrote in April of 2010. It is relevant now as a prelude to my next blog entry entitled, "Jaky's Farm". So, I have taken the liberty.
Organic Lawn Mowers
Our three sheep, Queen Latifa, Lady Gaga and Babs (introduced in blog dated Jan 26th 2011) that Jaky brought home one day, were welcomed guests at Il Convento Mincione, since (as the idea was first presented to me) they would function as organic lawn mowers for the lower levels of the property - thus, saving lots of money.
Jaky promised me that they were not meant to be eaten and I believed him…until the day that he brought home a fourth sheep that we named Pasquale. By his name, you can see why I immediately became suspicious. I am not a vegetarian, but when you see these sweet little babies (as with all little babies) they penetrate your heart instantaneously...
The notion of falling in love with babies has been the subject of scientific study for the past ten years.
In his beautiful book, “The Scientification of Love”, French obstetrician Michel Odent explains how Oxytocin, a hormone released by the pituitary gland stimulates the release of chemical messengers in the heart. Oxytocin, which is essential during birth, stimulating contractions, and during lactation stimulating the ‘milk ejection reflex’, is also involved in other ‘loving behaviors’. “It is noticeable that whatever the facet of love we consider, oxytocin is involved.’says Odent..(See referenced article “Science of Mother’s Love” below).
Some of you may be thinking - What about the growing number of stay-at-home Dads who are the primary caretakers of their children? Do men produce Oxytocin, too? Check Google for numerous articles on the subject. As always, your comments are welcome.
Back to Mincione and our four sheep...
The quartet grew rapidly in size. Their curly white mantles became dingy. And, they began to smell - no stink!
Our four sheep did such a good job of 'mowing' the lawn on the lower levels of the property that they started venturing up onto our piazza, (non ostante, the fence constructed to keep them out) in search of greener pastures and began to feast on the flowers as well - not to mention the droppings!
This happened once, twice... ten times. And, finally Oxytocin (Shcmoxytoxin - that's a New Yorkism), it was bye-bye girls and boy. We would have to think of another solution for the grass.
The Sheep Get the Boot (just one of many times)!
The awful sound you hear is the technique for moving sheep taught to me by a professional sheepherder. I usually try to speak in a more modulated tone. (My kids may think differently.)
I am aware that a growing number of people reject any difference between the treatment of animals and people. I am not there yet, but I do understand the concepts behind this mode of thinking. If I were there, I would have to become a vegan. Many people do develop a sense of consciousness that leads them to become vegan; some at an early age - others later.
You never know. By the time you come to visit Il Convento Mincione, I may have made the leap. However, you, our guests, are welcome to do as you please. We have a giant BBQ adjacent to the piazza and there are hibachi BBQ’s available for each apartment.
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| Giant Wood Burning BBQ - Chicken Kebabs Anyone? |
Joan
References:
"Science of Mother’s Love"
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