There is something very satisfying about seeing chimpanzees’ total abandon when they eat. They smack their lips and chew with their mouths open, and feel no shame about it.
Cle Elum 7
Today is for Lisa and Linda
We began today with a double Sponsor-a-Day of sanctuary which turned into a triple Sponsor-a-Day! How amazing that these seven chimpanzees are held in the hearts of so many humans as they celebrate and honor the special times and loved ones in their lives.
Rich and Lisa Stuverud are long-time friends and supporters of the chimps and Rich sponsored today for Lisa in celebration of her birthday! He shared this touching message about his gift:
“Please accept this in honor of my beautiful wife Lisa on her birthday. She has overcome some severe medical situations this past year and has been inspired in no small way by the incredible personal saga of the furry little group on the hill. She could often be found watching CSNW videos on the YouTube channel during her recovery.”
And then without knowing about her gift to come, Lisa sponsored today in memory of her beloved sister-in-law, Linda Vizzare, in celebration of their shared birthday today. Lisa’s lovely message:
“Well, another year gone by missing my birthday buddy, Linda Vizzare…we shared this day for 36 years until her passing 4 years ago. We also shared the love and admiration for the Cle Elum Seven and all the things the sanctuary provides for them. To see Burrito do his happy dance was her favorite. Their joy with everything sanctuary provides for them continues to inspire…I only wish there was a way for her to see Jamie race the Gator down the backstretch with her joyous clap, stomp and hop take off…she would be so thrilled ! This is the best way to celebrate!”
Rich and Lisa, thank you so much for sharing this special day with the chimpanzees, for always holding them in your hearts, and for all you bring to their lives. Lisa, we hope you have a beautiful day filled with love, joy and the comfort of memories held dear. Happy Birthday, to you and Linda!
And as you said, what better way to celebrate than a replay of Jamie racing the Gator (which she did again this morning!):
Every Last Bit
Jody’s order of operations for orange eating: fruit first, then pith, then peel.
The Right Tool for the Job
Grooming is a daily occurrence at the sanctuary. The chimpanzees groom each other, which facilitates social bonding, but they also groom themselves. Most of the chimps will use their fingers or lips for grooming, but Missy has a preferred tool: a splinter of wood that she “harvests” from one of the greenhouse climbing structures especially for the task.
And a photo of Missy’s foot, just because:
Burrito on a spring afternoon
There may still be snow on the ground, but the sun is shining, the temperatures are rising, and it finally feels like spring.
Spring Dreaming
Winter has hit us pretty hard over the past month or so, and while the chimpanzees aren’t complaining (snow is a delicacy!), the humans are ready to move on. Spring is one of everyone’s favorite times of year at the sanctuary – the air is warm, the grass is soft and sweet, and life is good. Can you feel it? Here’s to looking forward (by looking back):
Snow!
Mother Nature just keeps on giving.
