Many thanks to Kim Harris for her beautiful, heartfelt sponsorship of a day of sanctuary for the chimpanzees in memory of her beloved grandparents, Honey and Papa!
“My grandma, Honey (my grandpa always called her Honey, so I started calling her Honey when I was learning to talk, and it stuck. Everyone, and I do mean everyone, called her Honey until she passed away in 2016.), and Papa (his name was Willie; their names tell you just how special they were!) were a huge presence in my life. I spent more time with them than my own parents; I was with them almost everyday of my childhood. And I either spent time with them or spoke with them everyday until they passed. And my son also spent time with them almost everyday. By the time my son was three, he would call them on the phone and ask them to come get him, often unbeknownst to me. Ten minutes later they would be parked at our curb and my son would be telling me he was going home with them as he was walking to our front door. They were truly the best of the best; the grandparents (and great-grandparents) everyone wanted.
They fostered my love of animals when they bought me my first horse when I was ten. Everyday after school one of them would pick me up and then Papa and I would go riding for several hours. Honey would have dinner waiting on us. And on weekends, we drove all over central Oklahoma rodeoing. My horse was my life and I loved her dearly. I have always had pet dogs, but the bond I had with my horse was something special. The many hours I spent with them riding were filled with learning, laughter, and love. Learning about and caring for my horse taught me responsibility and commitment, built my self-confidence, and filled my days with happiness. Honey was unlike anyone I have ever known. She was my biggest fan and supporter. There’s not a day goes by that I don’t wish she were still here to talk with. My life with them most definitely made me who I am today. Honey’s birthday was March 10 and Papa’s was March 28. So today I would like to sponsor a day of sanctuary in their memory. They both would have loved CSNW and those who call it home.”
Kim, thank you so much for including the chimpanzees, and all of us, in your honoring of your grandparents and all the love and support that they (and your horse!) provided you in life. Your tribute is so beautiful to read.
Honey B:
Burrito, Foxie and Jody:
Rayne, Gordo and Dora:
Lucky, Dora and Rayne:
Kim, what wonderful grandparents you had, and how wonderful for them that you’ve continued to honor them. Being a grandparent is the best job any of us can have, I think. Happy Heavenly Birthday to your Honey and Papa!
Thank you Kim for sponsoring a day. Honey and Papa sound like they were amazing people. The raised you well. i wish for you, peace.
Kim, I’m very touched by your uplifting and heartwarming story of your grandparents, their importance in your life even to this day, and for the great description about your relationship with your horse. Thanks for your sponsorship today and your love for the chimps. I’m sure your grandparents would be very happy about your continuing deep connection to nature and animals and the legacy they provided you.
What a lovely tribute to your grandparents ?
Kim, what a lovely tribute to your grandparents who had such an active role in your life (mine did too). They can really enrich one’s life. Thank you for thinking of everyone’s favorite, loveable, 16 Chimpanzees for this special day.
The picture of Lucky, Dora & Rayne is priceless ??
Thank you for your sponsorship Kim, and for sharing your memories. Stories like yours and your grandparents is a great reminder that there is much kindness in this crazy world of ours.
Priceless, yes! All the photos are always so good, but that one is perfect.
A perfect illustration to the story about how much we need each other.
Hi Betsy…I was so touched by this precious & priceless photo that it made me cry…I love your comment about how embodying it is, shows how much we all really do need each other….
Kim, I sincerely hope you are keeping all of these memories tucked away in a safe and secure place. There will be grandkids, great grandkids, who will cherish these as much as you.
You have enjoyed a wonderful life with many years in front of you.
Thanks for the memories…….
Kim, your letter about your grandparents was beautiful. Started my day off with a warm heart.
The pictures today are so sweet. The chimps must also be having a loving day.:heart_eyes:
although I didn’t have grandparents, I had Granny and Grandpa Whitley, an elderly couple who lived two doors down. their influence on my young life was profound. I spent time with them every single day. They taught me so much! About life and love. Thank you Kim for sparking that memory.
Thank you, Kim, for sponsoring this day with your lovely tribute to your grandparents. I trust that they would have heartily approved of Honey Cow, Honey B, and all of their friends.