I don’t think I see a day go by where it’s not demonstrated somewhere, somehow, that someone is thinking of the chimpanzees and how to make their day better in some way. Whether it’s gifts coming from afar via our Amazon Wishlist (including all the amazing Safeway gift cards that allow us to shop for all the chimps’ favorite foods and keep their fridge stocked with fresh produce!), companies who donate produce, someone sending a book or a boot or a doll, volunteers and interns who take the time to think of new enrichment the chimps might like, or who work to grow mini-gardens in the midst of construction, who sit and groom Jamie with a toothbrush while she falls asleep, who buy special treats when they come for their shifts, and countless other thoughtful gestures. Your donations, your engagement on the blog and social media, sharing your love of the chimps and their lives with others, including them in your celebrations and honoring and remembering of loved ones, supporting our gala and auctions, lending your time to help improve and expand their home, and the home of those to come. There are countless ways you each make a true and lasting difference in their lives. In the lives of us all, really. What a gift you each are to us.
Imagine having spent decades in small cage in a windowless basement, unseen, to having people across the world, near and far, thinking of you and you’re well-being every single day. It’s an incredible, incredible privilege to witness.
Today, the chimpanzees were given the gift of the most gloriously fluffy and flamboyant peonies from a long-time friend and volunteer’s garden! Jamie took her time picking up each flower and smelling it and then gently setting them down until she chose the ones she wanted. I missed photos, sorry! But Annie and Jody were particularly enamored with these amazing flowers and gathered armfuls of bouquets to just bury their faces in, inhale their intoxicating scent, and then munch on.
Annie:
I love Annie’s flower petal vampire teeth. 🙂
Jody:
Judy says
June 10, 2019 at 6:30 pmNeverendingly this blog brings a world of thankfulness, joy, the happiest of heartbreaking tears and wonder to those of us to read … and we do.. every day.. We share this passion with anyone who will listen. Thank you and all who do the daily things that make this possible for the chimps and for us! It changes my world to read this every day.
Linda says
June 10, 2019 at 6:31 pmOh my goodness, Katelyn, the photo of Annie’s “Vampire Teeth” is priceless! Good shot! (Sounds like the missed one of Jamie would have been better as video, anyway! :D, so you could see her “selecting”). Have a good week!
CeeCee says
June 10, 2019 at 6:38 pmGreat pic’s !
I vote ” Vamp Annie” for next years calendar 🙂
Linda says
June 10, 2019 at 8:26 pmYes! Along with “Jody with Lilacs”!
Kathleen says
June 10, 2019 at 8:32 pmTo Judy who has so succinctly expressed how I feel, thank you for putting into words the beauty of following this blog, it is life altering. And I have to admit that the first photo of Annie made my heart explode with love and joy. The thrill of new experiences must never be taken for granted. The Cle Elum Seven is now seen, by countless followers. And thanks to this reality they will never be unseen again. Sanctuary life is the best we can give so let’s give it to all who await their second chance.
And, my lesson learned is to take time to enjoy the beauty of peonies, imagine if you never saw a peony in your life!
Arlene and Michael says
June 10, 2019 at 9:18 pmThis post makes me so happy Katelyn. The pictures are beautiful and your words are reminders of all the people who are united by our love for the Chimps. I can almost smell those fragrant peonies from here.
Elaine Reininger says
June 11, 2019 at 2:22 amYesterday I had to put my 17 year old beloved dog Ricky to sleep and my heart is so broken I can hardly speak. Todays blog was the first time I’ve stopped crying even though it was just for a second. I even managed a tiny smile when I saw the Annie Vampire photo. Life will never be the same for me without my best friend
Katelyn says
June 11, 2019 at 10:35 amElaine, we’re so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear friend, Ricky. Nothing makes such times easier, but I’m glad for the joy and moment of reprieve the chimps brought to your heart. All good thoughts to you from all of us here.
Debi says
June 11, 2019 at 11:18 amElaine, I’m truly so sorry about the loss of your beloved Ricky… I long to wrap my arms around you in a gentle, comforting & loving embrace…So many of us animal lovers understand your deep pain…Bless you, dear…
Francoise says
June 11, 2019 at 1:45 pmElaine, Cry for as long and as hard as you need to. Ricky deserved it. It gets better but never goes away. “big strong hug”
Kathleen says
June 11, 2019 at 3:50 pmOh Elaine, my heart breaks for you as I know all too well what that big hole in your heart feels like. I lost my dear dog one year ago and I was lost without her. The only thing that brought me joy was the chimps and visiting the shelter where I volunteer — I was a constant fixture getting as much dog-time in my days as I could. Look at your photos of Ricky, frame your favorite, and place it in a personal space to enjoy everyday. Your memories will keep Ricky’s joy alive and they will fill that hole in your heart with happiness.
Here is one of my favorite quotes:
“If there ever come a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever”. ~ Winnie the Pooh
Barbara Huljak says
June 11, 2019 at 4:11 amYour blog and pictures like the chimps “smelling the roses” so to speak bring tears and smiles
to my face. I am so happy I can do something for them after all the years in cages and no real
companionship with humans. I am so thankful the Sanctuary has rescued these amazing
creatures and given them their lives back. You are a wonderful organization. Love the blogs
Katelyn says
June 11, 2019 at 10:44 amThanks so much to all of you for sharing your words of support and love for the chimps (and Vampire Annie). You make our days brighter as well. 🙂
Maureen O'Malley says
June 11, 2019 at 3:39 pmThese may be my favorite pictures of these wonderful people. Careful, appreciative, loving. The word picture of Jamie warms my heart. Thank you!
Jennifer Wallace says
June 11, 2019 at 11:03 pmWhat a beautiful blog post. Peonies are one of my favorite flowers, too!