Meet Mark Sr.: Our Farm’s Favorite Helper!

If you’ve ever wandered through our sanctuary on a long weekend, you might have noticed a friendly face moving happily among the animals. That’s Mark Sr., the father of our sanctuary owner, Mark Jr. Together with his wife, Denise, he has become a cherished part of the farm family, bringing their warm smiles and big hearts to every visit.

Mark Sr. and Denise make the journey to the sanctuary for long weekends, ready to pitch in and help however they can. But their connection to the farm goes back even further. When Mark Jr. and Dani decided to pursue their dream of creating a sanctuary for animals, it was Mark Sr. and his wife who rolled up their sleeves to help build the farm from the ground up. Their dedication and hard work laid the foundation for what we have today, and we are forever grateful for their support.

One of the most heartwarming sights to see is Mark Sr. cuddling with our goats. These little creatures are known for their playful antics and curious personalities, but when they’re in Mark’s arms, they transform into the picture of contentment. You can see the joy in their eyes as they snuggle close, and it’s clear that Mark Sr. has a special bond with each and every one of them.

But it’s not just the goats that benefit from Mark Sr.'s attention! The horses practically prance over when they see him approaching with a pocket full of treats. Mark has a knack for knowing just what they like, and his gentle demeanor makes them feel safe and loved. Watching him interact with these majestic creatures is a delight; he talks to them like they’re old friends, and it’s impossible not to smile at the sight.

Then there are the alpacas! Mark Sr. has a soft spot for these fluffy, quirky animals, and he adores giving them extra scratches. They lean in for his touch, clearly enjoying every moment of their time together. It’s these little interactions that make our sanctuary feel like home—not just for the humans, but for the animals too.

Of course, Mark Sr. isn’t just about the cuddles and treats; he’s also a hardworking part of our team. He jumps in wherever he’s needed, whether that means mucking stalls, helping with feeding, or maintaining the farm's upkeep. His cheerful spirit and can-do attitude make even the most mundane tasks enjoyable. It’s inspiring to see someone who genuinely loves what they do and radiates positivity.

Beyond his physical contributions, Mark Sr. brings a sense of community to our sanctuary. He loves sharing stories and laughter with volunteers and visitors alike, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to hear his laughter ringing out as he shares a funny anecdote or lends a listening ear to someone in need. He embodies the spirit of kindness that we cherish so deeply.

As we continue our journey here at the sanctuary, we’re reminded of how vital it is to have people like Mark Sr. in our lives. His dedication, love for animals, and willingness to help out make our sanctuary a truly special place. We look forward to many more long weekends filled with laughter, love, and, of course, plenty of cuddles from our favorite helper.

So next time you visit, keep an eye out for Mark Sr.—he’s usually surrounded by curious goats, happy horses, and fluffy alpacas! We’re so grateful for all he does, and we know that our sanctuary wouldn’t be the same without him. Here’s to many more days of joy, hard work, and furry hugs! Thanks for being you, Mark Sr.! 🐐❤️🐴