Today’s photo is one taken a few weeks before Blanche died. It isn’t the best photo because of the fencing that is in the way, but it was one of those moments when you have to snap the image because you know it might change in an instant. The early spring sun had just been covered by some passing clouds, so the photo doesn’t show how brilliantly white their feathers are in the sunlight.

What I like about this photo is how Pearl is standing with her breast out as she is watching over Pearl while she was sick. Even though this photo doesn’t show how beautiful and brilliantly white their feathers are on the outside, it does show how extraordinarily beautiful Pearl’s heart is on the inside.

Every day Pearl would watch over Blanche, just as she is doing here. While Blanche ate, Pearl held back and let her have her first choice. Pearl wouldn’t eat until she knew Blanche had eaten all she wanted. If Blanche felt up to pecking around a little, Pearl would too, but would still pause often to look out for any danger that might sneak up on them. While Blanche rested in the warmth of a sunny corner, Pearl kept guard so she could sleep peacefully.

Pearl, with all of her goofiness, has always had the most incredible loving heart. Yes, calamities and mishaps always seem to happen wherever she goes…overturned water bottles, spilled food dishes…even stepping on someone else who is sound asleep. That’s Pearl. But this is also Pearl too.

Beginning tomorrow, the next several stories and illustration posts will be about Pearl and how she has coped with the loss of her life-long companion and best friend ever, Blanche.

In these new story posts, I’ve drawn Pearl as a young chick without her comb and wattles. When I was sharing about Blanche and Pearl during their tough times together earlier this year, I drew just Pearl as a young chick or both Blanche and Pearl as grown hens. Then when Blanche died, I drew Pearl as a young chick again.

Since those weren’t conscious decisions at the time, what do those differences mean? I think perhaps drawing Pearl as a young chick at certain times may indicate something about her feelings. When we are little children, we feel vulnerable and not in control of what is happening. We can feel that way as adults too.

I hope you will benefit from the upcoming posts since loss and grief are things which happen in every life.

Each post shares a glimpse into my journey as a writer and illustrator. Every “Like,” “Follow,” and “Comment” is truly appreciated!