Long Shadows

I spent some time Saturday morning out with the ponies before I left for the Refuge Farm Gala. The sun was bright--too bright for good photos -- but turned out great for shadows.

I picked up my friend Katie in Hager City and we headed to the U of M Equine Center for an evening with the supporters of Sandy Gilbert and the Refuge Farms. Uniquely, the event was in the arena! Half held horses and half beautifully decorated in true Gala style. Sandy brought five of The Herd and told their stories with such passion. The rapt audience viewed a touching video of the story of "Laddee the Little Belgian Mare" who was one of the horses in attendance. Later, Don Hoglund, DVD, spoke about his work rescuing horses from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. A silent auction held a wide variety of items that were donated to the cause and it was hard to decide what to bid on there were so many wonderful offerings. (Note to self: next year bring more money!) We had a wonderful catered dinner and ended the evening with a live auction of generously donated works of art and goods from sports memorabilia to gorgeous quilts.

It was a late night for this old girl by the time I got home, but the staff of volunteers worked into the night to take down the show and head home with some horses and will be heading back to St. Paul for the last of the horses today.

I could go on, but suffice it to say it was a wonderfully well organized and attended event. It was apparent that this was a "family reunion" celebration for the volunteers and supporters and included many of the vets who have cared for the refuge herd through various operations and procedures. Hugs galore at this love fest!

Mr. Loveable

Fran got home from Florida earlier today and came out for a visit. The moment she opened the shop door, Mr. Kitt E. Katt jumped off the table and ran to the door to greet her! I guess that means he is an extrovert and he proceeded to take over her lap--purring and chirping all the way!

However, HE STILL NEEDS A REAL HOME! Living in the shop has it's advantages--like pretty girls coming to visit--but with a personality like his, I think he would fit into a home pretty readily. Helga comes in to visit and he launches at her with his friendliness. Helga doesn't quite know what to do about this cat creature who adores her. None of the inside cats are this nice to her!

I've been asking him what he would like to be called, and he's just so happy to be indoors all he wants is to not be called late for dinner. But yesterday I just thought about his marking as looking like paisley. PAISLEY! Hey, Paisley! He still doesn't care what his name is! Would you like to name him?!

It's a Boy!

He looks sad and vulnerable here but is actually doing much better now! His day started with a tasty breakfast and a huge hugging and purr session. He's a boy! This was my opportunity to move on to putting this little guy in my large carrier. He proceeded to have a panic attack once he realized he was confined. The experience probably brought back some horrifying memories of being captive before he was tossed out. He threw himself around in the box and gave himself a bloody nose before he finally calmed down. I cooed all the cozy kitty words that he needed to hear and a little while later the door could open and pets and purring followed. His ravenous appetite was satiated with all the Friskies canned cat food he wants. I worked in the shop today and even with the tv and grinder running he slept like death. I would like to handle him a little more, clean up his face and check for fleas, ear mites, etc., before I make the vet trip. He's been through a lot and at this point food and rest will help him more than a scary trip to the vet. The first test at the vet is key. It is for Feline Leukemia and if he tests positive for it it will mean the end of his short life. But, if he passes that one, he can be neutered and have a very happy life at his forever home. Which brings me to....

You know I won't be able to keep him since I already have four cats in the house, so help me find a nice home for this little sweetie--you aren't going to believe how good he is going to look in a month! A fur-covered little bundle of love.