I know I am being watched. I've seen pointed ears poking up from barrels, and I've sensed eyes watching me from between fence slats. At times I've heard a swish of a tail or heard paw prints dogging my steps. The number of animals that live on Gabriola it is astounding. We're all aware of the Llamas, Emu and Alpacas and every other four legged farm animal. Horses, cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks - you name it - we got it!

Our deer far outnumber any of the wild life here as we all know. Wild Turkeys and Pea Hens fly up from the bushes or scuttle across the road, and the variety of birds on Gabriola is amazing.

Paradise Alpaca Farm is very close to the elementary school and the farm socializes their Alpacas by walking them down the road. They hang out, stopping traffic, stooping to much on grass, and extend a head for a gentle pat. They are 'team and pack' animals and will hum if they like you. Then we have the Llama named Cusco, owned by Janice and Lorne and on duty to protect their sheep. He loves his job and his curious nature as he advances toward you is somewhat intimidating.

Despite my allergies I asked a local hobby farmer if I could tour his farm and see what's involved in a typical day. I arrived very early the next day in time for farm fresh eggs, a cup of coffee and a thick slice of home made brown bread. As I enjoyed dragging the last bit of toast through the eggs the farmer's youngest daughter sidled up to me. In her chubby little hand she held up a fat grey mouse. "This is George" she said. "Wanna hold him? Wanna kiss him?" Actually, I had a hard time swallowing the toast, and backed carefully away from the shiny black eyes and whiskers. The minute I stood up their black and white cat, Lilac grabbed my warm spot and I was happy to get out the door.

Clothed in coveralls and pitchfork in hand, I followed the farmer's instructions and cleaned out every damn stall on the place. I had no idea how much.... um, waste can be produced in one day! After that I shoveled more straw and bedding back into the stalls, and I dare any one of those animals to poop in there.

I dodged the rooster to collect eggs. Have you ever stuck your hand under a setting chicken? They get a very suspicious look in their eyes, and you really have to out stare them if you're going to be successful. I fed the pigs, scattered feed for the birds, and cleaned and refilled water buckets. I was told to count the chickens, but they kept moving around and I began to feel nauseous and in danger off falling off the fence rail. From somewhere behind the barn I heard hysterical laughter. I never did get the same total, so I gave up and staggered off to curry the donkey.

This is supposed to be enjoyable for the donkey. Ha! She kept turning around and looking at me as if to say "Where did they get you from?" Finally, we came to an understanding which left me dusty and harried, and her with a dandelion garland between her large ears.

All day I worked with a companion. The farmer's dog was a hound named Bugle and I think he came along for the laugh and to see what the foreigner would do next. The last laugh was on him/her when the farmer told me Bugle is actually a girl, and the mother of six puppies. The lineage is pretty hard to identify, but by the coloring and curly fur I think Sarge, the Airedale, may have had something to do with it. That dog keeps showing up in the oddest places and we give a friendly nod in passing. I have a feeling I'll be seeing more of him in my life and that means you will too!

As I write about the animals on the island I find myself most drawn to the one with names. George, Bugle, Cleo the Jersey, Cusco, Lilac, a rooster named Pecker (leave that one alone) and Sarge.

We love these special creatures and so I am going to show it.

I'm going to march right into that farmhouse and give George a kiss!