In the early 1950's, Grandpa “Oliver” (born Olavi {O-lah-vee}) built a farm for his family in Jefferson, Ohio. My uncles stepped up after Grandpa’s unexpectent death and, with my Uncle Steve at the wheel, the hay continued to be made and the memories continued to roll in. Then, make way for 2010 and the screeching halt. Uncle Steve passed away unexpectedly. He spent his last day on earth working and dying on the same land his Dad, my Grandpa, once had. He died on a beautiful August day during the year 2010. Fast forward 3 years and through many long conversations, forms, loans, attorney appointments, and contemplation, the farm was to stay in the family and this time, with Grandma’s blessing, the third generation was at the wheel. After loads of money, buckets of sweat, ounces of blood, and, oh, the tears, I, as the proud new owner, continued to make hay and memories. I guess that wasn't enough:
In the late winter of 2015/2016, me, along with my sister and dear friend, set off on the daunting task of starting a 501(c)3 non profit animal rescue. In March 2016, while the hay fields were covered in snow and the rescued horses and cats happily tucked in their warm barns, it was official. My farm would become the home base for our animal rescue. We did it for all the animals the three of us have saved and loss over the years and for all the animals that will cross our paths. Their stories will be told and, with the public support, we will be able to to save more. Today, the farm has a name, appropriately, Sanctuary of Friends (SOF), continues to make hay, continues to make memories, and now has a new purpose: to offer animals in need a SOF place to land.
