I had a moment last week.
It was the first time that Jamie’s group was in their outdoor habitat, Young’s Hill, while George had access the other habitat, the Bray.
J.B. shared a video on Monday in his blog post.
I was in the human corridor in between the habitats. Missy and Foxie began walking along the fence where I was standing as George ran outside. I was thinking about Foxie having just turned 49 and Missy’s 5oth in just a few days.
I was thinking about the last seventeen years we’ve spent together and all of the experiences we’ve shared. Together, we’ve gone through the same things that I’ve gone through with human friends and family. There have been days of worry and days of pure elation. There have been some scary times when we’ve done our best to comfort and reassure each other. We’ve faced a lot of uncertainty together, and many, many laughs. We’ve even been together in times of shared grief.
That moment, as I walked with them, we were experiencing something new once again as, George, a chimpanzee they weren’t familiar with, watched them from the other habitat. Foxie held out her hand to ask for reassurance and I held mine out to her and nodded my head. I told her it was okay and George was a nice guy. She seemed reassured and continued up the hill. Missy was calm and brave and curious. And the three of us continued walking together, as old friends.
I glanced back at George and thought about how everything is so new to him. I contemplated the experiences that we’ve already shared together and thought about the amazing experiences and the change and growth that’s ahead for us both. For us all.
I would like to share an experience with all of you reading. For those who are able, I really want to see you at HOOT! 2025 in Seattle! We’ll be sharing more about George’s story and you’ll leave with an even more profound understanding of the sanctuary and the chimpanzees. Get your tickets right now!
You really do want to come in person if you are able, so you can share the experience with a room full of wonderful people. But, if you really can’t make it in person, definitely RSVP today for online viewing and participation.
I’ll leave you with a few photos taken by staff yesterday during Missy’s 5oth celebration.
Annie with one of the watermelon bowls she scored!:
Cy after eating a tomato cupcake:
Foxie foraging with one of her new birthday dolls:
Gordo with a glowing, mystical watermelon skin:
