Along with February and midwinter, the first Red-winged Blackbirds have returned, singing in our half-way-to-spring days here in the northern hemisphere. The most tenacious of these spicy guys arrive to stake out their marshy territories when it still seems impossibly cold for them to be here, their early morning songs swirling from their beaks in a cloud as they sit atop their frost-covered cattail thrones. I have an immense love for the magic that only winter holds. But this time of year, when most of us need just one sure sign that spring is making its way toward us, my eyes automatically begin scanning the marshes I drive past every day for the sudden presence of these feathery black, red, and yellow harbingers. They are the surest of sure signs, a reassuring constant.
In speaking of birthdays for February, it’s bittersweet this year. Our sole February birthday was Nutmeg’s, our beloved gentle giant of a steer who we suddenly lost last year after an unexpected health crisis. He had just turned 9 on February 10th and passed away in March. It’s not the same seeing his small herd without his enormous presence, but it’s been heartening to see how well his mama, Betsy, along with Honey and Meredith, are doing. Always together, always looking after and comforting one another, as is natural for bovine families when given the opportunity to live out their lives together.
Nutmeg and his mother, Betsy:
To say we love each and all of the chimpanzees and bovines feels almost an empty thing, so impossible is it to express how much our hearts hold for them. And what a gift of a thing to have the privilege to celebrate. Our Valentine’s Day bash planning has already begun and knowing how much you love them all as well, we can’t wait to share this celebration with you. And if you haven’t had a chance to register yet (thank you to those of you who have!!) there’s an opportunity to join the chimpanzees’ virtually for breakfast on Valentine’s morning!
Meanwhile, let our hearts leap and pirouette and kick about over the twenty residents who have called the sanctuary home so far, those who remain here and those who have gone on ahead, whose lives in all their kaleidoscopic wonder would not be possible without you.
Last year, as many of you probably recall, we posted a series of blog posts, individual Valentines if you will, for each of these unique individuals. Feel free to visit/revisit any of these you’re so inclined to (linked in their names), marvel at and celebrate how far they’ve each come in the past year, or just enjoy their beautiful selves, so a part of our hearts, family, and lives.
And Happy February, Valentine’s Day, and turning-toward-spring (or autumn – in which case I’m Elphaba green with envy) to you all! We’re so grateful you’re here.
