Jamieween is right around the corner! Don’t tell Jamie, but I am making her a new book for her birthday! This one will look more like a Xtratuf catalog. It will be filled with new styles, colors, and designs! Though I am sure it will not replace her current favorite. Jamie’s must reads right now are the infamous staff wearing Xtratuf boots. Then coming in second would have to be the volunteers wearing all different styles of boots and shoes, lots of crocs which Jamie enjoys. Don’t forget the classic cowboy boot book. Something with mummies or skeletons, that is always a favorite. Oh, Dwell magazine for a little light reading. And last but not least a few good books about animals! If you would like to help Jamie get her birthday book, we are currently low on Shutterfly gift cards, I would like to get a stockpile of the original Xtratuf book so she can always have one on hand. Keep an eye out for Jamieween items on the wish-list we are starting to add some birthday items!
At the sanctuary there are lots of little moments that let you know, as a caregiver, that you have done your job well. You sometimes catch those moments throughout the day. Yesterday, before we went home for the night Jamie’s Xtratuf staff boot book came in. She hadn’t had one in a few weeks because they take some time to ship and with chimps you never know how long objects will last. I walked over to front room 4 where Jamie was standing to show her what had come in the mail for her. Immediately, she was gesturing to see it. As I gave the book to her she took off with it into the green house to be alone. On her way I could hear some low groans of what I can only imagine are excitement and happiness.
Jamie getting her new book last night:
This morning as we were cleaning, Jamie had left her book in the playroom. She began requesting it. I grabbed the book and Jamie guided me over to the food chute.
I hope this is a reminder through these weird and trying times to find the little moments that make you happy. This was mine.
Harley Robb says
Shes is so beautiful and a great reader!? By the way, is Jamie picking at her belly fur? She’s got some patches!
Mary Ashworth says
I just love love reading posts, and loving anything the chimps do..
They are so smart and expressive..
Harley Robb says
She’s so beautiful and a great reader! By the way, is she picking at her belly fur? She has a few patches!
Dena Griffin says
Good job Kelsi, Jaime loved that book.
Janet says
Great collection of reading material. I will definitely keep those in mind Jamie.
Kathleen says
Thank you Kelsi, this story and accompanying photos of Jamie’s joy over her newly delivered favorite book is a little moment that made me very happy. Durning this entire, overwhelming year, this blog has made me happy. Everyday the chimps make me happy, the cows make me happy, the neighbors horses make me happy, the thought of sanctuary life makes me happy, and each and every one of you, you incredible caregivers, make me very happy. And very grateful. I send you a big hug and many thanks for all of your hard work, brilliant ideas, and tender kind hearts.
And the thought of Jamieween makes me almost burst with anticipation!
Sherry P says
I LOVE this story! Thank you for sharing it, Kelsi. 😀
Linda C says
Your Shutterfly gift came in handy!
Linda C says
The moment when you know your resume should read “chimp caregiver ” AND “chimp friend”.
Linda C says
The moment when you know your resume should read “chimp caregiver” AND “Chimp friend”.
Maureen says
How precious! Love the photos, love Jamie’s passion.
Vickie Scribner says
Jamie looks so content!! Thank you all for everything you do for “our” chimps!!
Marya says
Ooooo, I just love this post (well, every single one, of course!). Just had a chance to look at it again — Jamie’s quite the person! I’m so enthralled with how much she thinks and is so present. And am looking forward to her next book’s arrival, as is she!