Hello My Friends,
Hope you all have had a fantastic week. We were blessed with a little rain which was sorely needed. Probably could have used a bit more but I'm happy we got any. The forest behind my house caught fire from fireworks this past week. Luckily the fire crews were quick responding and got it under control. Still was unnerving watching it come down the hill toward us, so for me I'm loving this little bit of rain.
It was a tough week here as we said goodbye to Otis yesterday. It was a heavy cloud hanging over everyone leading up to Thursday. We had a nice gathering on Wednesday with a lot of watermelon eaten. There would have been some really tasty looking muffins as well, but the crows wanted them a touch more. Outside of this we only have a couple updates and unfortunately one isn't a good one again. 2025 has really been a tough year here, and it doesn't seem to be letting up. Anyway, let's get into it.
- Lets start with a bit of good news. The photo restrictions for the goats and sheep have been lifted. You all can take and post as many pictures of everyone as you like. The only request we have is that you DO NOT include any back story or history of them. From our I&R manager Chris Clementson "The only prohibition associated with these sheep and goats is that we share NO INFORMATION which might allow someone to tie them directly, or indirectly, to the suspect, the county, or even the geographic region of the offense". Outside of that guideline, go nuts.
- The computer is up in the enrichment room, however we are experiencing some IT issues. Jen has finalized the program, and as soon as we can get the bugs worked out, It will be up and running.
- Enrichment Volunteers, letting you all know that with the help of our project volunteers we were able to clear a path from upper pig 2 down to the gate at the top of Nanni & Noodles yard. It was a blackberry onslaught and with much pain and a little blood, we have a path again. I will make a point to keep this open, so you don't have to walk all the way around to get to them.
- Unfortunately one of our long-time and beloved chickens isn't doing very well. Black Beauty is approaching the end of her life. This could be another one where I'm apologizing for no notice, but it came on suddenly. She has lost the use of her legs and can't stand or walk. The exact reason hasn't fully been determined so I won't speculate here. We have tried different medications and so far, nothing is helping. Today could be her final day if she doesn't respond to her meds. I will try and wait to send this letter out until I know for sure. For those that don't know her by name you will know her as the beautiful longtime companion of Shirley. They have been together for many years, and it will be sad to see that come to an end................... UPDATE, right before I posted this, I was informed that she is not responding to the medication and today will be her last day. I am truly sorry for all of you that cared and loved her, she will be missed.
Again I'm sorry for ending this post on another sad note. Saying goodbye is a tough part of not just sanctuary life but life in general. I feel privileged though that if it comes to that decision, we have the people here to do it in an honorable and loving way. Otis's passing was hard but to witness the compassion and love it was performed with was beautiful in its own way. The tears flowed and he was surrounded and held by people that loved and truly cared for him in his final moments. Black Beauty's will be the same when the time comes, as will all, its the very least we can do for them.
The sun is coming out and the temps are supposed to rise. Take care of yourselves out here, drink lots of water and listen to your body, if you need a break please take it. Have a great weekend and week ahead. I'm looking forward to seeing all your lovely faces out here soon.
Stay Amazing!
Shane Greenfield
Volunteer Coordinator
shaneg@pasadosafehaven.org
