More pictures from shelter...

Suzanne and Jen before we unloaded the truck

A kitty who was delivered in the trunk of a car!

Pile of pups

Polydactyl kitty plays peek-a-boo

Marion County Animal Shelter

My Christmas Project

I have just arrived home from something that I hope to make a new tradition: My Christmas Project. From now on every year at Christmas time I want to focus on giving, on making a difference and on giving hope to people who need it. In return I will receive a gift larger than will fit in any box. That will be the fleeting joy that one only gets to see when practicing random acts of kindness.

Of course the project began with a few people making donations of money, old towels, computers, some dog food, kitty litter, bleach, whatever they could afford or find. Before I know it checks were coming in the mail on a daily basis and friends were collecting for me. My friend Suzanne even offered up a day of her vacation to ride with me to the shelter…500 miles round trip.

Today was the day and I admit I was excited to get going. When Suzanne and I got on the road with Willow snoozing in between us I could not have felt better about what we were going to do. After a few stops in Columbia to pick up some more donations we finally arrived down in Marion. I had already been told that the shelter was not much more than a shack, so I was pleasantly surprised when I found more of a barn structure. I was prepared to be swept away by all the puppies and the kittens but what I was not prepared for was for my meeting with Jen Nall.

The truck as it was being unloaded - I forgot to take a picture before we unloaded

You see Jen is a 30 something woman who is doing what she can to make a difference. She left a desk job to pick up poop and save animals. I can totally relate to her. She is passionate about caring for all the animals that come into her shelter; she loves them and knows their stories and their names. She is not the typical jaded, tough woman one would imagine to have such a job. Jen is a different breed. On the e-mail I got from her it says “If you are not part of the solution, then you are part of the problem”. She is going to make a difference. Because I admire her, I am going to help her out when I can. I am going to encourage others to do the same. The only way we can accomplish bigger and better things is to help and support one another. Call it “girl power” or whatever you like but strong women with vision have the ability to create change.

Me with Jen after handing over what I had collected.

As we toured the facility and Jen told us the virtues of all the dogs and pointed out the polydactyl (5-toed) kittens that looked like they were wearing mittens. She showed us the pile of collars with chains attached to them that dogs had been dragging down the road. In the corner of her office sat a scared little dog near one of the lone heaters. A plastic bag full of matted hair was on Jen’s desk…just in case the owner should want their little dog back. The phone was constantly ringing, she answered that too. Then a few more people showed up, one with questions, some with more dogs for the already full shelter.

The very cute polydactyl kitten

People actually put a pad lock on their dogs collar!

We left so that Jen could get back to work. We left her with $1120 for vaccines, $75 worth of Wal-Mart gift cards, 3 computers, and a truck load of towels, toys, dog food and kitty litter. We tucked a few ounces of hope in there too.

On the drive home we reflected on what we had seen and as cute as all the animals were we both most impressed with Jen. Her enthusiasm, her determination and her spirit will make the Marion County Animal Shelter a facility that works.

Thanks to all of you who contributed and supported My Christmas Project. Through your generosity I was able to experience the true reason for the season.

Merry Christmas!

Ugh - Silver Fox (Many of them) Fur Coat For Sale!

I can't believe I ever actually wanted to wear this many animals on my body. Please don't hate me for it. I was young and dumb. I got rid of the husband that purchased it for me a long time ago but now these Silver Foxes must find a home in a closet where it is wanted. I am also realizing that the items that I am currently selling make an interesting combination. If any one wants a group rate I will consider that. It would have to be someone athletic, with a small butt and kind of short arms - the fur coat has short arms - well, at least for me.

Interesting story with the fur coat. I got it in Shanghai, China when I was there for a textile show in 1992 or 93. I got it in the authentic Chinese gift store. It was warm in China so I did not need it there but I have to admit I actually wore it a lot in Germany to keep from freezing while walking around town. I do remember having to be careful they I did not get hit with spray paint...a lot of people are really against wearing fur. Fur really isn't my thing anymore so hopefully someone will get this who will actually wear it. It is on e-bay already, but I thought it kind of rounded out all the stuff I have for sale for the day.

Western Saddle For Sale

I have to let go of my past and this saddle MUST go! I will never be married to a cowboy again and I will most likely never barrel race a horse again. The saddle has to go. $200 or the first person to make me a good offer. Oh - the seat on this is about 14 inches - so it is made for a little woman or a child. Basically if you have a big butt there is no way it will fit in this saddle. Sorry! Call 864-415-5804 if you want a saddle that will make you feel like a real cowgirl :o)

Mountain Bike For Sale

Out with the old and in with the new...well, that at least sounds good for the new year! Really I just need to get rid of a a lot of the old. Here is a great mountain bike - works well, is light, is fast, aluminum, XTR components. The first person to give me close to $500 will be the winner! No kidding - it has to go to a loving home where it will get lots of use! 864-415-5804