The universe found us at the Farm Sanctuary. We had just sat down for lunch at Green Elephants, a vegan restaurant, and began an exchange with a kind spoken woman and her young son who ultimately offered us tickets to a farms tour.
I knew from her disposition and timing, it was a place we should accept and just go!
The Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen is quite worthy of a visit; caring for over 500 rescued farm animals advocating for a vegan way of life. It was an influential experience meeting Belinda the cow (my namesake) and Lily the goat. They each have a story of how they were saved by the sanctuary.
Our guide shared the issues experienced by the animals and asked us to intentionally allow them grace to approach us. The sheep were a great example. We paused outside their door and watched them resting and eating. After several minutes they began to come towards us but in a line- each taking turns to say hello.
It’s quite influential to becoming vegan. They shared the names of vegan restaurants/meal options in the area to try. We tried the Cellar in Corning and it was perfect!
Tips:
The farm offers a bed and breakfast. I hope to stay there at my next visit.
Head over to the Sugar Hill Fire Tower nearby for what is apparently a great view. I made it up two stories before I found myself going back down. I’ll try again next time!
Pivot and Pause in New England 