Posted on 12/26/2013 7:45:57 AM PST by afraidfortherepublic
Boxing Day morning is traditionally a time for long sleeps and leisurely breakfasts. But while most of Britain takes it easy after yesterday’s festivities, little Arthur Jones will be out in the Dorset countryside mending fences.
Many winter mornings have seen him out in the fields, hammering tacks into a post, wearing his favourite tweed cap.
He also feeds the sheep, rattling a tiny pail containing a handful of pellets. ‘Come on Twinkle!’ he calls to a ewe with a dense white fleece and a calm demeanour, who dutifully trots across to him.
So far, so ordinary for a hard-working farmhand. But Arthur is just two years old. As Britain’s youngest shepherd, he has been herding and caring for his own little flock of six pedigree sheep for almost a year now, under the tutelage of his grandma Nicky Jesse, one of the country’s few shepherdesses. She’ll be out there with him today, taking the lead as they mend the fences.
Arthur is a bit of a celebrity in shepherding circles. He is the youngest ever member of the Poll Dorset and Dorset Horn Sheep Breeders’ Association, has won three prizes in county shows and has even been introduced to the Countess of Wessex.
His mum Sarah — Nicky’s daughter — has many reasons to be proud of him; not least because he was born two-and-a-half months prematurely and has cerebral palsy.
His lower body has been affected by the condition: doctors warned that he would not walk until he was four.
But Arthur had other plans: this September he took his first steps unaided, and Nicky is certain his exceptional progress can be attributed to the extraordinary bond between him and Twinkle.
(Excerpt) Read more at dailymail.co.uk ...
There are many, many adorable pictures at the link. Read the whole story; it will make your day.
His smile is just PRECIOUS!! What a wonderful little man!
Cuteness beyond words....
Wonderful story, thanks for sharing it!
What a wonderful way for a child to grow up.
And what a great substitute for physical therapy!
You’re right - it made my day!! Thanks for finding/posting, and happy Boxing Day to you and all!
I have an autistic grandchild who goes to school with children who have cerbral palsy. It warms my heart to see this little guy accomplish tasks on his own and with the aid of his lambs. Kudos to his grandma for allowing him to achieve what the doctors said he couldn’t do!
It would be so easy for his family to say, “Oh no, he’ll get hurt, dirty, knocked down, etc.”
Highly Commended award.
That is just darling. Reminds me a bit of my #2 grandson, who just turned 3 last month. Same kind of grit, too.
Wonderful story. Beautiful child.
Yep
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