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Go Gordo, It’s Your Birthday!

July 19, 2023 by Kelsi

Many thanks to Paulette Wrisley for sponsoring this day of sanctuary: “Sending happy birthday wishes to Gordo, Tom, Dan and David! Have the best day you guys!” Thank you so much Paulette for helping us celebrate Gordo on his special day!

Today is Gordo’s 35th birthday! We threw a big lunch celebration for both Gordo and Burrito’s groups. We started Gordo’s day with an extra large cup of smoothie, because that is hands down Gordo’s favorite thing in the world. To say he was excited would be an understatement. I am sure you are all dying to know what was on the menu for Gordo’s birthday! The forage consisted of some of Gordo’s favorite foods such as oatmeal cups topped with fresh berries, leeks, cherry tomatoes, corn, and more fresh berries.

I thought I would share a few of my favorite things about Gordo. Number one, I think this might be why all of us staff love him, because he is quirky! I love his pokey fingers and that he always sits in boxes (the novelty has not worn off). I adore his little smirk, he just always looks cheeky, it kind of fits his personality. As we have mentioned before, Gordo does come off aloof like he is uninterested in us humans. However, if you pay close attention, when he does want to play or interact he will do the most subtle little knock with his knuckles or he will ever so slightly tap his toe, not toes, just one toe. It’s like he is seeing if you are paying attention and if you are you are rewarded with the prize of playing chase with him. I love the way he lays at the end of the stairs on a hot summer day, looking like fell down them (he has not!). Emotionally, Gordo can be hard to read so it makes me admire how brave he is and extremely proud of how he has handled himself and embraced all of these new situations. We are so lucky to know him. Gordo is a one of a kind guy!

Now you can see why it may look concerning when Gordo lays by the stairs (again it’s just how he lays):

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Rosalie Allen says

    July 19, 2023 at 6:41 pm

    Happy 35th Year, Gordo!
    He always brings a smile to my face and he is just a dapper, handsome fellow. It is so good to see him living his best life everyday!

  2. Nancy Duryea says

    July 19, 2023 at 7:04 pm

    Thank you Paulette for sponsoring this handsome guy’s birthday. It sounds like he got everything he likes to eat and more! The pictures are wonderful.

  3. Linda C says

    July 19, 2023 at 7:10 pm

    He always does have such a pleasant look to him. such an amiable chap! I see he got enough birthday treats, and Mave didn’t steal them from him.
    Maybe it’s just me, but there’s something about the way he walks, too. that seems distinctive. His feet are very flat-looking. Can’t put my finger on it, but different from the other chimps.

    I loooved hearing Annie doing some groans reminiscent of dear Jo’s dinosaur growls!

    Happy birthday to all of the guys!

  4. Kathleen says

    July 19, 2023 at 7:46 pm

    Such fun seeing Gordo and friends enjoying the big 35th celebration. The scenes of the different chimps outside the restaurant box really cracked me up. As did your commentary, Kelsi! Of course Burrito dined and dashed! I also enjoyed reading your favorite things when it comes to Gordo. The single toe tap and slight knuckle knock, such a shy guy way to get your attention. Very sweet. And I am so pleased you captured his habit of gently placing his smoothie cup on the ground. (Be still my beating heart.)

    Happy birthday sweet, dear Gordo!

  5. Mark B. says

    July 19, 2023 at 7:57 pm

    Looks like a good time was had by all on this special day!

  6. Marcie says

    July 19, 2023 at 8:46 pm

    Happy Birthday to a sweet and courteous Gordito. That big birthday smoothie was a prefect way to start your special day.

  7. Arlene and Michael says

    July 19, 2023 at 8:51 pm

    Happy Birthday dear Gordo. He is so distinguished looking. What a fun and filling birthday forage. for all:) Love how excited the Chimps get for food. So happy they all had such a great day. Thanks Paulette for sponsoring. Hugs to you all.

  8. Tobin says

    July 19, 2023 at 9:55 pm

    Feliz anniversario, Senor Gordito! Not only are your table manners refined in your how you set down your cup after drinking your smoothie, but you are literally quite diligent in count of all of your toes. And now that old enough to be president…no pressure, but, your enthusiasm for bunny-hopping might catch on as transportation policy.

  9. Paulette says

    July 19, 2023 at 11:20 pm

    Hey! that was supposed to say happy birthday to “Four Handsome Devils!” In keeping with the last year’s Gordo birthday. My mistake, not Kelsi’s.

    That first photo is adorable! That definitely will go in my photo album.

    OK, gonna watch the video now!

  10. Susan Kathleen Feeley says

    July 20, 2023 at 1:20 am

    You sure look pleased with your special day handsome Gordo, going strong and being spoilt rotten. Happy Birthday! May you have many more birthdays to follow.

  11. Cindee says

    July 20, 2023 at 5:06 am

    I love the way Gordo makes sure the cup isn’t going to tip over before he lets go and walks away! Happy Birthday, Gordo!

  12. Deanna says

    July 28, 2023 at 11:07 am

    I am SO late to the party but im so glad to have not missed it! Happy birthday Gordito!! You handsome cutie pie!! I do love seeing him in his boxes and what a polite guy lowering his cup down so gently!!! Made me smile and its funny how the little things like that make me love them even more!!!

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Happy Birthday, Gordo and Dave!
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A Rare Moment with Willy B

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