Welcome to another issue of In The Now. Keeping you “In The Now” of what is going on at DRF.
This is a heartfelt reminder of why Double Rainbow Farm is a beacon; not only of light, but of Hope and love, that will forever be branded in our community... “A place where Angels roam,” and also a look into the very hearts of the wonderful volunteers that donate their time in giving... Hope another day.
I went to the Farm last weekend to update Milton Wallace’s accounting information for MLW Stables, and upon arriving at the Farm, Sharon Scaas came over to me and said, “Go over to the pond, Milton is coming”, and I wasn’t exactly sure what she meant, so I continued into Milton’s office to update his accounting information, and Sharon yelled into the house, “Steven, get over to the pond, we are having a surprise for Milton and we want you to be there,” so I finished up quickly what I was doing and went out to the pond to see just what all the commotion was about.
I was wondering why I hadn’t been told of this party, so I believe, it was fate that brought me there that day. As I was getting closer to the pond, I saw a picnic table and a number of people gathered around, and saw Milton getting hugs and thought... “Gee when am I going to get mine?”. *smile*, *wink*, but all kidding aside, I definitely knew that I had picked a great time to visit the Farm, as I knew that I was about to be blessed with witnessing some praise for all of Milton and David’s hard work at DRF.
Everyone became quiet for a moment as Milton stood and thanked everyone for coming by and nearly giving him a heart attack with this surprise party, and for showing such an outpour of emotion. One by one, volunteers walked over to Milton and stood before him, opened and read their letter of appreciation for all that he has done with Double Rainbow Farm, and how he has changed their lives and the lives of so many.
It finally became my turn, but just like Milton, it is hard for me to speak what I feel inside, as I “tend” to get emotional and find it difficult to get the words out smoothly. So I began telling Milton, that it has been a real pleasure being the web master of Double Rainbow Farm, and now, being his accountant for MLW Stables. After stumbling/pausing a few times from emotion, I continued by saying to Milton, “I had published a story of Inspiration on the web site some time ago that you had given to me, and I entitled the story... “Angels Are Truly Among Us,” and I just want you to know that Angels are, without a doubt, among us, and every time that you look into the mirror... One is staring back at you.” I finished my speech by saying, “I know that I have said that it has been a real pleasure being your web master and also your accountant, but I also want you to know that after knowing you for 17 years, I am truly honored, and have been blessed to have a friend like you in my life.”
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The following are letters from other Volunteers who attended the appreciation party...
Sharlynn writes: “You have given me something that I had lost in my 20 year marriage. The love and enjoyment of horses. I in no way have the time for one of my own, but to be able to have horses and great friends in my life again I am blessed. Thank You”
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Becky writes: “Dear Milton, This gathering is a celebration of you. We all get a chance to tell you exactly what you mean to us. So maybe it’s really a celebration to us all. I once had a very dear friend that meant the world to me. She was allot like me. We really understood each other and loved like we were meant to have each other forever. We only had a short time before she was taken from me to be with God. Her name was Brinda, “Bennie” as I called her. She is the reason I am here at the farm. She told me to come here before she left because she knew I would need this place in her absence.
I was lost when she was taken from my world. I felt alone and really frightened to have to face the rest of my life without my best friend. Most of my life has been spent feeling as though I wasn’t good enough. She always brightened me and there was never a doubt that she loved me the way I am. She changed my life by just being there. That’s how special she was, and you, Milton, have filled her shoes. You make me feel whole because you care.
You are responsible for making a family out of all of us. One that does not judge or criticize or belittle. You love each of us for who and what we are. You have made me believe that there really is good in the world, and it’s right here for all of us at Double Rainbow Farm. You have created that and you continue to nurture all of it every day for all of us.
You have made it possible for me to face my cancer with a positive outlook. I have the love and support that I have needed for a very long time because of you. If I were to be granted only one more day on this earth, I will spend it here with my family at the farm. You have given me a true family. The one I was born into can never compare to what I have here. My sister Lynne is the only good thing I ever received from my mother and father. I have always said that I did not ask to be born and don’t owe my parents anything. It was God that put me here and it was God that blessed me with you and my family here.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart Milton. You are an angel truly sent from God for us all.
Love Becky”
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Pinky write: “Dreams can come true just ask any of the volunteers or students. Open are the fields where the animals run free. Unforgettable are the lessons, memories and friends we make. Believe in yourself and you can do anything. Lessons are what you give out daily. Enjoyment is what I get seeing Cait have fun and what you get when you know your job is done.
Reason for living each day to its fullest. Admire is how many look at you. Independence is what you give to all your students. Noble is the steed we all shall ride. Bonded are the ties you have made between man and beast. Overwhelmed by the love and friendships we all have made. Winners is how all your students feel after a lesson or a fun show.
Family is what you get when you arrive. Accepted is how you made me and others feel when we come to your farm. Ridding Saddled with Hope is how you roll. Milton you are a mentor to most, a God send to many, and a friend to us all. Maybe it was God or even just a coincidence that I ended up at your farm, but no matter what I am glad to be a part of your team.
Love Pinky”
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Sharon & Rich write: “I hope you had a good time tonight we need more people like you!”
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Sharon write: “If I could be even 1/2 the person you are, I’d have something to be very proud of. I love you. Your the dearest man-friend I’ve had EVER!.
Things WILL WORK, things happen for a reason!
Love Sharon”
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Frank & Sherri write: “We are very impressed with all you and your many friends and family have accomplished.
Love Ya, Frank and Sherri”
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Justine writes: “Dear Milton, I want you to know that I appreciate you letting me stay here and hang out. The last week has been super fun and full of joy and laughter. I am glad Ryan invited me up here, and I am really glad you said I could. I’m extremely happy you like me enough to let me keep coming around. You are one of the best people I know. You are a hard worker and very kind, and allot of people respect you for that.
Love Justine”
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Debbie writes: “Hey handsome, I have had a hard time finding the words to convey to you how much I love and appreciate you, and how much you mean to me.
You’re the best friend and brother I could ever ask for. I love your kindness, gentleness and generosity, and though your honesty at times has hurt - it has made me a better person. Thank you!
I appreciate your drive, your enthusiasm and your awesome sense of humor, and your willingness to include me in your life.
I cherish all the times we spend together and I thank you for letting me become a part of your family. I love you my friend, and I wish all the best for you always - you deserve it. You mean the world to me.
Love Debbie”
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Thanks for stopping by and for all your prayers and support for keeping this place of miracles...
“Saddled With Hope.”
