Wow, wonderful day, spending it with family!! It's been two whole days actually......... Christmas Eve, we have dinner at my husband's parents home, with many siblings and children. Christmas Day starts early with brunch, moving onto dinner, hopping from Sister-In-Law to Cousin's home.
Now we can kickback......... another Christmas coming to a close. Maybe, just maybe, Santa will hear our prayers for our baby to be home with us for next year. This has been the third Christmas without our child........ we want so to be a family, but for now, we are still a family, with our two dogs, one on the way, and our cockatoo.......... but, still we look towards next year and hope. She may or may not be with us even then. It's been three years since our papers went off to China.......... 21 months of log in dates....... meanwhile, we will wait for good news regarding the next batch of referrals.
Merry Christmas everyone........ from the Hubbs Family :)
The Holidays Are Upon Us December 23, 2007
Above is Higgins - and below is Chloe............ so once again, we are puppy pregnant. Pups will hopefully arrive any day this week. These two had a hot date on Halloween, and now, are scheduled to have puppies by New Years Day, if all goes well.
Well, the Holidays are certainly approaching, and where I thought that I would be extremely sad by the fact that this will be the third Christmas of waiting since our Dossier was being prepared back in '05. Nothing prepared us for a wait this long...... a wait that grows with every passing day.
Finally, though, something to look forward to. We are definitely puppy pregnant. Our pup, this time nearly for certain...... should be born this week. She/he will be born in Wisconsin, and I'm so happy.
The last litter, that we thought surely would yield our pup, didn't work out for us. It most certainly seemed as though getting our Briard is as difficult and heartwrenching as our China Adoption, but I'm so happy to say that this time I feel positive that it will work out. I also am much happier with the parents, as in an earlier posting, I had pic's up having fallen in love with a male Briard named Higgins. Well, Higgins Bohemia Elite is the Sire to our future puppy. The Dam, (Mom), is Chloe, and I'm told that she is the sweetest of the sweet, when it comes to a dog. Topping that, as if that was possible is her owner, Penny, who I'm certain was brought into my life at this time for a lifelong friendship.
I feel as though, as difficult as it was to finally get here, thinking at times it was never going to happen, is Kismet....... and this mirror's my China Adoption.
So, again, I will be posting..... took a leave as I was in somewhat of a slump... but now I'm back, and happier, and stronger than ever.
Waiting For The Stork 11/27/07 Yikes tomorrow will be 20 months since lid
Waiting for the arrival of the stork. The rumor mill has been very quiet........ could almost hear a pin drop.
We are very patiently waiting for this next batch. Congratulations to all those that are expecting..... hopefully we will bridge the gap to midway through December with this next group. Currently, the CCAA states that referrals have been made through 12/8/05.
I truly hope that they get past the 15th of the month... this would then give hope that December will take about 3 months to get through. If each month takes approximately 3 months, then we should see our referral in about a year........ stinks huh....... our lid of 3/28/06, seems to be creeping along.
Well, here's to the next group. May the stork fly high, and carry a huge load this month.
We've just welcomed home a little one, and are on to the next.... can't wait.....
Foiled Again - no puppies for me 11/3/07
Well, last night I got word, that where I thought there was a puppy with my name on it, now that is'nt the case.
It seems it's as hard to bring home a Briard, as it is to bring home our baby from China.
I'm very sad........
It seems it's as hard to bring home a Briard, as it is to bring home our baby from China.
I'm very sad........
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
This was the day that Pirate Puppy Boy was conceived......... him and his fellow Sweet 16-ers........
That's snow on Ursa's face....... she was out for a romp.................
That's snow on Ursa's face....... she was out for a romp.................
Ursa had puppies, and we were hopeful to have gotten one, but that was not to be the case. BUT, THIS IS HOW WE ENDED UP WITH CORSAIR'S BOOTY, A PIRATE TAIL, yeah!!!!!!
October 30th, 2007 Trying to get puppy pregnant!!!
It's been such a long and difficult road, waiting on this paper pregnancy, BUT, with that many things there have been blessings, like my Chelsea.. my 7 1/2 month old Wheatable Mixture Mutt, and now, with the ever increasing wait for our baby, maybe it's time to expand our family with our Forever Briard. You might remember the Briard from Married With Children....... "Buck", and then there was the Briard that was in My Three Sons....... well here's how they look at just one week old. !Just got off of the phone with the breeder, and one of these boys is mine. I HAVE A SON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm going to drive to visit with them on Tuesday, hopefully, have to figure out the details........ will get more pictures up on the site as soon as I know............. too excited to contain myself, as I've been waiting for this pup for a long time.
Tomorrow, Miss Chelsea starts Advance Beginner classes.......... she went hiking in the woods today, and it was tick city........ my little Princess will be a big Sister, and her older Sister, well, at 15, she really could be the Great Grandma, but Kirby will be a big Sister as well.
Anyway, will post plenty of pic's in the days to come.......... this is what gets me through the wait.
I'm going to drive to visit with them on Tuesday, hopefully, have to figure out the details........ will get more pictures up on the site as soon as I know............. too excited to contain myself, as I've been waiting for this pup for a long time.Tomorrow, Miss Chelsea starts Advance Beginner classes.......... she went hiking in the woods today, and it was tick city........ my little Princess will be a big Sister, and her older Sister, well, at 15, she really could be the Great Grandma, but Kirby will be a big Sister as well.
Anyway, will post plenty of pic's in the days to come.......... this is what gets me through the wait.
19 MONTH LID VERSARY LAST NIGHT 10/29/07
So, again, I can't even begin to express the feelings that I'm feeling regarding this wait. I realize that for everything, there is a perfect timing, and reason. I just can't fathom the reason, but one day, I do so hope to finally understand....... entering my 20th month of paper pregnancy..... it's funny, I've heard this compared to that of an elephant's pregnancy. I feel as though I am an elephant, ya know where you see the elephants all walking in a line trunk to tail, shuffling along one behind the other. I'm in a long line of elephants, walking towards China.
I probably could walk there faster than this adoption is taking place. So, in the need to redirect my energies, and absolutely in need of baby breath, we're searching for our puppy. Our Chelsea has just turned 7 months old, and now that the dust has settled, (training a pup can be quite exhaustive), I'm ready to start all over again.
We've fallen in love with a breed of dog, the Briard, a French Herding dog and I've been going on, and on about this breed for months now..... check back in the archives, and you'll see other posts, and cute pictures too. Well, it's almost as hard to get a Briard puppy as it is to get our baby from the adoption. Well, not quite, but it is really hard. I respect this quality that the breeders are exhibiting, making sure that the homes one of their pups receive is a solid good home. I was initially refused a puppy a few months ago, as the breeder felt that my Chelsea was too young, and neither one of them would have gotten the proper socialization that is required, especially with a breed such as the Briard. They are highly intelligent, free thinking, often a bit stubborn, and high energy. Couch potato Briards run few and far between. This breeders advice to wait, and refusal to sell me her pup at that time was the best advice that I could have gotten. I can truly appreciate this now. Chelsea is even a bit young now, but I'm trying to find my pup, just born, or about to be born, and then Chelsea will be at least 9 months or older. We're also starting some major obedience classes, as she's got me wrapped around her paws.......
I finally actually thought that we had our puppy, just born a few days ago, a male of impeccable breeding, but when the contract was sent over, I nearly fell over from the price. I wasn't prepared for that amount. I've been researching this breed, as I've mentioned before, and I'm pretty aware of what an average pup would go for. I had to walk away. This is to be my 50th Birthday present......... and I just couldn't justify this pup with the baby coming. There are other Briards, and less expensive.......... so, I'm now going to sign Chelsea up for classes in Obedience...... I actually need them more than her. She see's me, and says, yeah right..... no biscuit, no trick........... down what?? Sit where??
I don't think so.
So, that's it for now. Referrals should be arriving sometime next week I think, and we're all hoping and praying that the CCAA has at least included the 12th of December....... that would be somewhat encouraging news. Keep your fingers crossed.
I probably could walk there faster than this adoption is taking place. So, in the need to redirect my energies, and absolutely in need of baby breath, we're searching for our puppy. Our Chelsea has just turned 7 months old, and now that the dust has settled, (training a pup can be quite exhaustive), I'm ready to start all over again.
We've fallen in love with a breed of dog, the Briard, a French Herding dog and I've been going on, and on about this breed for months now..... check back in the archives, and you'll see other posts, and cute pictures too. Well, it's almost as hard to get a Briard puppy as it is to get our baby from the adoption. Well, not quite, but it is really hard. I respect this quality that the breeders are exhibiting, making sure that the homes one of their pups receive is a solid good home. I was initially refused a puppy a few months ago, as the breeder felt that my Chelsea was too young, and neither one of them would have gotten the proper socialization that is required, especially with a breed such as the Briard. They are highly intelligent, free thinking, often a bit stubborn, and high energy. Couch potato Briards run few and far between. This breeders advice to wait, and refusal to sell me her pup at that time was the best advice that I could have gotten. I can truly appreciate this now. Chelsea is even a bit young now, but I'm trying to find my pup, just born, or about to be born, and then Chelsea will be at least 9 months or older. We're also starting some major obedience classes, as she's got me wrapped around her paws.......
I finally actually thought that we had our puppy, just born a few days ago, a male of impeccable breeding, but when the contract was sent over, I nearly fell over from the price. I wasn't prepared for that amount. I've been researching this breed, as I've mentioned before, and I'm pretty aware of what an average pup would go for. I had to walk away. This is to be my 50th Birthday present......... and I just couldn't justify this pup with the baby coming. There are other Briards, and less expensive.......... so, I'm now going to sign Chelsea up for classes in Obedience...... I actually need them more than her. She see's me, and says, yeah right..... no biscuit, no trick........... down what?? Sit where??
I don't think so.
So, that's it for now. Referrals should be arriving sometime next week I think, and we're all hoping and praying that the CCAA has at least included the 12th of December....... that would be somewhat encouraging news. Keep your fingers crossed.
Wednesday October 24, 2007
Entering my 20th month in 4 days.............
This wait is unimaginable......... can't even talk about my baby......... I'm pretty sure that our wait will grow to be 28 months before referral easy.....
This wait is unimaginable......... can't even talk about my baby......... I'm pretty sure that our wait will grow to be 28 months before referral easy.....
Happy Columbus Day October 8th, 2007
Today was a gorgeous, sunny, absolutely magnificent day. Dave and I went out for brunch....... Bloody Mary's, yummmmmmm, AND, then we went down the road to the beach..... we took Chelsea with us, and granted, the picture of her in the water above is from a few days ago. I forgot the camera today, and missed photo op, after photo op........... so enjoy the polar opposite of a day. The photo of Chelss, in the water is soooo gray, and today, was SUNSHINE CENTRAL.
She is quite the swimmer these days, completely loves the water..... too bad it's October, but it was in the 80's today, here in New York.... and I am VERY HAPPY :)
Here's a side note...... Dad's back in the Hospital, and has just been diagnosed with MRSA Staph....... if anyone knows about this, please email. I was a primary care giver, and packed and cleansed that wound for weeks....... if I caught anything......... and he wants to come home here tomorrow. I have to rethink this.........
October 7th - "Were's My Baby"!!!!!!!
We'll it's been a while since I started this blog, and virtually haven't much mentioned the center of it all. There IS a baby, perhaps two, that have all encompassed my thoughts, pervaded the very essence of my soul for what now seems like years. It has been so discouraging to fathom, and due to that, I've barely mentioned babies at all.
If I could express every emotion that I've ever felt in this short blurb of my blog, well that would be something. Truth be told, there is never a moment, never a breath that I take, that doesn't encompass the fact that I, we, are a family. Everything that ever was, or ever will be, is here before me. I know our family exists, I just can't forsee the point of it taking the years that it's taking.
I received an email today from a new friend that I met through this process. Granted her lid is way behind of mine, but she mentioned that she doesn't read the boards....... well that's really paraphrasing, but my interpretation of what she said is that she doesn't read the boards because of all of the wining........... and the whining part is a quote .WELL, WAS THERE EVER A BETTER REASON!!!!! anyway, I've been one of the whiners....... WHERE THE F.... is my baby!!!!!
Signing off for now............... disgruntled future Mom ...
If I could express every emotion that I've ever felt in this short blurb of my blog, well that would be something. Truth be told, there is never a moment, never a breath that I take, that doesn't encompass the fact that I, we, are a family. Everything that ever was, or ever will be, is here before me. I know our family exists, I just can't forsee the point of it taking the years that it's taking.
I received an email today from a new friend that I met through this process. Granted her lid is way behind of mine, but she mentioned that she doesn't read the boards....... well that's really paraphrasing, but my interpretation of what she said is that she doesn't read the boards because of all of the wining........... and the whining part is a quote .WELL, WAS THERE EVER A BETTER REASON!!!!! anyway, I've been one of the whiners....... WHERE THE F.... is my baby!!!!!
Signing off for now............... disgruntled future Mom ...
Babies, Bunnies, & Puppies *** Check out Dela & Higgins "BRIARDS IN ACTION"
Babies, Babies & More Babies.............. well, it appears that the referrals for our fellow adoptive waiting parents have arrived, or shall I say trickled in. Apparently, there only seems to be a few days worth, and they may have just completed the Month of November '05...... which took about 6 or 7 months to get through I might add, so, we'll move on to a happier topic....... or possibly, NOT!!!!!
Bunnies, Bunnies, and More BUNNIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you've been following along, and read some of the other archived posts, my Dad has been recuperating at our home.......... just about 6 weeks now. One day, he decided that my husband Dave needed a new lawnmower........, well, we'd just purchased one of those environmentally green, push mowers, but our lawn is so lumpy, my father saw Dave going over and over the same section a million times, trying to get an even cut. His suggestion, go buy a new lawnmower on him.......... he couldn't be disuaded, so off we went. We really weren't too sure about this, there's a million other things that we could use, ie. a power washer, new stove, baby furniture...... I could go on, and on, but this post needs to be short.
Off we go to purchase a new mower, and after shopping around, we finalized our purchase, and lucky for Dad, a sale was in effect. Well, we have this brand spanking shiny new RED mower, just waiting to be fired up.
Dave decided to mow the lawn a couple of days later, while I was taking Dad to one of his MANY Doctors appts............ I get a somewhat disturbing phone call from Dave, saying that he started to mow with our Virgin lawnmower, and not long after beginning, a teeny, weeny, baby bunny kinda comes shooting out from under the mower......... Dave's upset, and asked what I thought that he should do, as the bunny just looked a little dazed and confused. I suggested that he place the bunny in a box for safe keeping till I could get back and give him the once over.
Good advice, well taken.......... so Dave rescues the baby bunny and safely places him in a box, smartly using a towel, so as not to touch the little guy. BUT, damn it, my dear conscientious hubby wants to finish the darn lawn, and has no idea where the bunny came from. He looked around for some holes, found none, and thereby resumed the task at hand. No sooner having begun again, another bunny comes shooting out, only this one, didn't fare as well........ Dave placed him in the box, next to his sibling, and noticed a little bit of blood on it's foot. Then came the phone call............. what should I do................ I frantically said forget the lawn, and bring those poor babies to the Vet........ who I called as soon as I hung up the phone with Dave.
Okay, in as much as I love happy endings, this story just quite doesn't cut it. The second bunny's foot got mangled, and after much protesting on my part to the Vet. stating that I will pay to have it tended too, and then adopt the bunny, giving it the best life I can, seein' that we ruined it's poor life to begin with, but the Vet disuaded us......... and after my Osprey failure, I didn't want to torture the poor baby any longer and agreed to the euthanization.
Now, here's where it gets a bit tricky......... we have the one remaining bunny, that is thankfully okay, and needs to be returned to it's hole....... not only are we coached on the procedure from our Vet. on the exact steps to take, we call the Wildlife rescuers and further our education.
We're told to glove our hands, and then rub them in the dirt and grass......... pick up the baby bunny and place it back at it's hole, which after mangling the second bunny, Dave had the exact location. So, we wait till late afternoon, waiting a bit, as the bunny Mom, usually will make a visit either in the early morning, or evening, sometimes both, but to give a milk feeding to the babes. These little ones, were old enough to be on their own as the white spot, which is a sign and sits atop their little heads was gone, and their eyes were completely open........... okay, so, evening rolls around and it's time to complete our mission, return bunny to hole. We creep out to the hole in stealth mode, pick up the bunny and place him in the hole, but not only does he jump out and start to run around screamin' bloody murder, another baby bunny pops out. Now we've got two hysterically screaming hares running for their life........ do you know just how loud a teeny weeny baby bunny can scream................ it's deafening........ well, not really, but it is quite loud.
Well, now, if you could have seen Dave and I scrambling around trying to catch these things, which we finally do, and creep back up to the hole to try again................. when two more bunnys pop out of the hole giving us a total of four itty bitty, little teeny weeny bunny hopping around our lawn..................... jeeeezzee, now what................
We finally round up the bunnies, but we in no way are going to make that mistake again. We put all four in a box................. place the box on it's side within a few feet of the original hole, which is also sheltered by some very full Crepe Myrtle bushes that we have. Okay, task finished......... hopefully the Momma Bunny will return, and coax them all back in the hole.
The next morning, I couldn't contain myself, and had to run out to the hole at first light. Two bunnies remained in the box........ I prayed that the other two, were either in the hole, or hiding somewhere....... not that I want bunnies running all across our property, my puppy seems to love to taste bunny poop, but I won't let a hare on their head get hurt........... pun intended.
Well, after I'm sure the Mom won't be back for the day, I turn the box upright and close it somewhat so that the babies can get a decent days sleep, and then later on I'll figure out just what I really need to do............... BUT, later that day, late afternoon, I snuck out to have a peek, and wouldn't you know it, great photo op, and I didn't bring the camera............ there were two tiny huddled babies on the outside of the box.................... and two inside. The remaining two found their siblings and huddles through the cardboard.
Come Evening, the two outter bunnies were gone, and I set the box back on it's side. In the morning, all bunnies were gone, and I took away the box...................... I don't care if we have 10 feet of grass....... this lawn won't be mowed till Spring.
My new lawnmower is jinxed....................
PUPPIES, PUPPIES, PUPPIES, PUPPIES.......... Dela & Higgins
Dela is having her pups as I type. I'm in love with Higgins, and would love to have a puppy from him.................... so far, she's had two pups, and both are males. It seems to have been hours since the first two, so I hope that all is well. Look at how cute and beautiful Dela and Higgins are at the top of the page on their first date, the date that consumated these puppies................. Can't wait to hold my pup for the first time.......... but just like our adoption, I have no idea when that will be :(Faith & Steve Tie The Knot 9/30/07 Sunday
The girls get together to celebrate Faith's retirement, and bridal shower..... sushi anyone????, ummmmn...... SAKI............. of course, I totally overindulged........... there I am second from the left....... all of us worked at Skippers in Northport, at one time or other..... Faith, in beige, in the middle took the plunge and retired after what 20 years I think......... doesn't she look happy???
Well, this is how it started, we made some bows and decorations, and then got a little crazy....
There's my Chelsea........ my Briard "wanna-be". One day I was busy making bows downstairs only to find her upstairs, making her own bows...... ribbons all over the place.... she's such a girlie girl..........
There's my Chelsea........ my Briard "wanna-be". One day I was busy making bows downstairs only to find her upstairs, making her own bows...... ribbons all over the place.... she's such a girlie girl..........
Clink, Clink,Clink......................
Dave & I made up a Margaritaville Banner, as Faith & Steve are Buffett fans, (us too).
Susan and I made the bows and decorated the Gazebo in the Northport Town Park, they were married by the Mayor of our Town........ don't know the two sitting on the steps, they were there when we went to take the bows down........
Susan on the left, our glorious bride Faith in the middle, and me on the right!!!!
Well, I think it is safe to say that my dear friend Faith wasn't sure when the day would come, that she and Steve would take the plunge, BUT, it did, and the weather, and every planet and element in this life aligned and cooperated this day. The weather was incredible, the ceremony lovely and the Celebratory Brunch absolutely fantastic. They are one terrific couple.......... may they celebrate many, many wonderful years together.
We had tons of fun creating the bows and Dave the banner..... I helped by sticking my two cents in as I always do.......... HAPPY WEDDING DAY FAYEZEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ain't They Cute ????????
My new passion seems to be a breed of dog........ when we got our Chelsea, and we kept researching all of the breeds that we thought that she could be, we were blown away by a breed of dog called the Briard. Sometimes I think it's my Chelsea on steroids......... Chelsea is a Briard wannabe.......... so, Dave and I are researching breeders, and we'd love to get another puppy perhaps this Winter. In fact, there is a litter due in October that we would love to get a puppy from...... truth is, there is a long list of people wanting pups from this litter, so we'll just have to see....... we'll probably end up with another puppy before we see our babies face. This wait is taking so long............Above you have Savvy on the left, and Farley on the right. Farley grew up, and the two actually had a litter of puppies...... my friend Holly is the proud doggie Mom to the three pooches......... here is a picture of Giaco............. I would scoff him up in a minute is Holly would let me, but she's very content to have her Golden Retriever in a Briard suit. He's calm, cool and collected............
9/22/07 Survivor China O.M.G.
Wow, just caught Survivor China through the CBS website, and I have to say that I am thoroughly hooked. It was very soothing to view the Countryside and know that our child is probably alive and breathing, and existing in that environment. It is absolutely breathtaking to see the landscape, the homeland of our little girl.
The sites and sounds are incredible, the only thing missing is the smell. I've done a bit of traveling, and I have found that different areas smell different....... can't wait to smell China, or not, (well, maybe not :) ).
Excited to see the next episode............. oh, and Ashley is from the same area as I am, so I've known of her for a while now, and have been aware of her wrestling career. Go Ashley!! But, I'm really not too sure if I like her or not, haven't made up me mind yet..........
Oh, here's the Daddy update.......... he seems to be a bit better these days, he's feeling better, AND, he's nicer too.... but that's probably cause we begged the Doc in charge to give him happy pills........ I think they are working. We're hopeful that he will be able to leave our home in the next 2 weeks....... every day I say, "2 weeks". It's been a Month already........ yikes......... 2 weeks!!!!!!!
The sites and sounds are incredible, the only thing missing is the smell. I've done a bit of traveling, and I have found that different areas smell different....... can't wait to smell China, or not, (well, maybe not :) ).
Excited to see the next episode............. oh, and Ashley is from the same area as I am, so I've known of her for a while now, and have been aware of her wrestling career. Go Ashley!! But, I'm really not too sure if I like her or not, haven't made up me mind yet..........
Oh, here's the Daddy update.......... he seems to be a bit better these days, he's feeling better, AND, he's nicer too.... but that's probably cause we begged the Doc in charge to give him happy pills........ I think they are working. We're hopeful that he will be able to leave our home in the next 2 weeks....... every day I say, "2 weeks". It's been a Month already........ yikes......... 2 weeks!!!!!!!
Osprey Plans Made In Vain - "Silly Me" September 7, 2007
Well, I'm almost there in the Osprey Pole Installation. Thought I had all of my Ducks in a row, so to speak, but apparently, there are other forces at work......... so far to recap....... after last years rescue of the Baby Osprey, I named Henry- which didn't end up going according to plan........ the rescue did, but Henry's injuries were far too serious, and he eventually had to be euthanized. Months, and months of care, and expert care at that, from Veterinarians from many renound institutions..... ie, the Bronx Zoo. I vowed to make a difference and commemorate him by installing two new poles in the area to further propagate the Osprey Population. All of this under the expertise of Mr. Jim Jones, my Osprey Mentor. For more info regarding my work on this project, look under the archives to the right for August. Pics of Henry there as well!!!!
Well, we FINALLY built the poles, but now they need to be installed. Moving them alone is a project. I finally was able to set up the use of a friends flatbed truck. Tim, owns Autobahn, and auto body shop....... well, we set up the delivery of these poles, which are soooooo heavy and require big robust men :).
With everything almost in place, in trying to schedule the crew to help put these poles up, which is just like a Barn Raising....... you need a bunch of good men and women....... or many kids, hehehe. Anyway, it was almost in place, planned around a low tide, and voila........ it happens to be our Towns yearly event, called Cow Harbor Day. They have a 10 K run right through my neighborhood, roads closed, and traffic at a standstill..... the day needs to be changed. Oh well, we will try again in two weeks, on the weekend of the 29th of September...... cross your fingers, toes, and all crossable body parts, a years work nearing an end, I want to sit back and close the chapter with a smile and a beer.
Cheers.............
8/31/07 ASPCA earns $$$$$$ through Web Searchs
A PENNY FOR YOUR…SEARCH? What if the ASPCA earned a penny every time you searched the Internet? Well, they do, thanks to GoodSearch.com, a search engine powered by Yahoo! that donates half of its revenues to charities. Simply visit GoodSearch.com to start making a difference and check out how the numbers add up. If 500 people search four times a day, roughly $7,300 will be raised in a year—without anyone spending a dime. So far over $4,200 has been raised for the ASPCA in 2007 alone. So be sure to visit GoodSearch.com and add your two cents (or three or four) to animal welfare!
P.S. If you can, be sure to visit on Friday, August 31—that’s today—when the ASPCA will be featured as Charity of the Day.
P.S. If you can, be sure to visit on Friday, August 31—that’s today—when the ASPCA will be featured as Charity of the Day.
This is fantastic............. and I'm going to actively spread the word. Who knew such a thing existed, and if someone did, I wish they'd told me..................... $$$$$$$ for a search sent to a great cause$$$$$$$$
8/30/07 Going Outta My Mind
This is Kirby.......... she's pretending that none of this is happening........ check back tomorrow, as you might just see a picture of me hiding in the corner of my bedroom too.
This was once a very neat, very organized, tidy storage area that Kirby trashed, acting out in response to the puppy's arrival......... but somehow, these days, I feel that it will happen again if I am not careful. Oh and did I mention that she ripped up brand new carpet in the Guest Room, currently known as Dad's room, ugggh. The area will be our future Master Bath complete with Steam Shower and seperate Steam Sauna and a whirlpool...... THAT I NEED NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!
These are my two girls, not the greatest picture, I'll have to change that one.
I'm trying to remain optimistic, and I usually am EXTREMELY optimistic, but I am suddenly the caretaker for my aging Father. He HAS a home, and he even has a significant other......... then why is he here you might ask?????
She refused to take care of him, as he's more than she cares to, or can handle. I on the other hand have opened up my home and my heart to him. Things would be great, if he would just act as grateful as he claims to be. Instead, he is bullheaded, mean, and at times he's making me crazy. My pressure has gone through the roof, and there are many times where I'm realizing that he does need to go.
It's just not me that feels this way. His energy has overtaken my home, and what was a happy place now seems sad. My poor husband has been wonderful but is vastly approaching the envelope. He doesn't appreciate the way my Dad is nasty to me, and barks out orders...... I don't believe that my Dad is very stable. Then there is how it's affecting my animals....... I have an older dog Kirby, now granted the picture that I'm showing of a destroyed room, is not from this episode, but it will explain how she feels. My puppy has started to hide behind things, and bark incessantly..... she's almost 6 months old.
Yesterday, my Dad in a huff shouted out that he was leaving and going back to his significant other, (someone that refused to take care of him). Then he spoke with her, and suddenly he's yelling that he wants to go to a rehab.......... When he calmed down, he said he just needed more time.
I would love to give this man all of the time in the World that he needs, but he is abrasive, and abusive, (verbally). He makes my pressure rise 9 out of 10 times. I also have my own health issues to think about as I am a Breast Cancer survivor, but that is another story for another time.............. I think I had better start looking up rehab facilities, but something tells me if he's been released from a hospital, it's now too late.
Oh well, it's early here in New York, and although I'm ready to cry, morning has always been my favorite time of the day, as it's fresh and new. Morning brings about endless possibilities................. hopefully, when I open the door to my Dad's room, I will find a new man with a smile on his face, that will last the day.
My Referral Is A Raccoon 8/28/07
At the time of this shot,
I had hope for the little guy,
To me, it seemed another
rescue gone good, but I did have thoughts that he did have rabies
At least no one would be injured from him...........
Me, animals, no question I'd jump in to help....... I ran over in my P.J.'s, only to find this young, definitely sick raccoon. Rabies has been on the rise here on Long Island, and I really wasn't looking for trouble. For a fleeting moment, I thought maybe I should ask my husband to shoot him.........., he's a retired Detective, but that thought was quickly dismissed.
I quickly ran for backup........ it's great having Dave home, especially in times like these. I had already done a preliminary assessment of this animal, and truly, it needed to be contained, and in my heart I knew it had to be destroyed.
Keri was quick to supply the perfect container, and a sheet, which I had thrown in his direction. He definitley had neurological issues, as his footing was unsure, his hearing not acute, and at times he looked as though he was falling over. Anyway, I threw this sheet which caught him off guard, and as he stumbled and tried to regain his footing, Dave plopped this plastic container over him. I then slid the top of the container, under him, and we secured it, and gradually flipped him, well rolled him actually till he was upright with the lid securely on top.
Job done, air holes made, I loaded him into the car, to take him to Volunteers For Wildlife..... except we hit one glitch......... while Dave and I were trapping the critter, Keri was calling various places, but had not actually finished listening to the recording regarding raccoons, and how they would not be accepted by this facility.
That put a crimp in my plans, as I was doing this on the way to my Father, probably sitting by the phone, fully packed, dressed and ready to go since the call he made to me at 8:19.
So, I drive out to Lloyds Neck with this scary little guy next to me the whole way........ thoughts of him breaking loose if I have to stop short, and visions of a John Candy, Chevy Chase movie come to mind. I can see the hysterics of a loose, rabid raccoon, chasing me around a car that is traveling along at 40mph.
Anyway, the drive out to Lloyds Neck is always pleasant...... in fact, you have to pass some beautiful landscapes, Osprey Nests, Long Island Sound, and an old home of Billy Joel's. But, my happy attitude is quickly zapped, as V.F.W., won't accept my passenger, and I am reminded of the recording that Keri didn't finish listening to stating they do not accept Raccoons.
Well, there I am with my thumb up my _ _ _, nah, I'm left with one other choice. Stop at the local Police Station that I had to pass on the way and plead my case about the situation and hope that they will at least take this animal off of my hands if not completely, then for the time it takes me to spring my Dad.
I walk into the Station, and they are the nicest, sweetest Police Officers. They absolutely agreed to take the Raccoon, and call Animal Control. I was told by V.F.W. that if I was to call Animal Control on my own to retrieve this animal, there would be a charge, and it would be quite expensive............. I have to deposit this animal, now and be done with it. So, I was overjoyed by the fact that they would take him and call the authorities..... but not before giving me the third degree on whether I had touched it, where I found it, etc, and understandably so. BUT, the funniest thing was how scared everyone was to pick up the container that housed him.
As if it was infectious through the plastic........ jeeeze, maybe it was........
Okay, there's more........but the short version is this. I FINALLY go and get my Dad. We have a wonderful dinner...... I love to cook, and we ate a meal fit for a King...... Chilean Sea Bass, and Orange Roughy.......... and all of the trimmings., Udon noodles and sauteed mushrooms and zuchinni........... yum!!!!! I pick up all of Dad's new meds, and proceed to give them to him, glancing at the labels............ this man takes so many medications............ we go through them all, and then I notice that not only are there the three meds that have his name on it, there is an additional one, THAT I GAVE HIM, that has someone elses name on it........... OH MY GOD, I ALMOST KILLED MY FATHER!!!. Now I visualize having to run to the Emergency room, but you have to understand, this man has been in and out of the E.R. three times this past week alone, and the final time he was admitted and had to have emergency surgery......... he finally got out, but it's actually worse....... he's been in and out of the hospital since July, and he was finally on the mend, that is until I POISONED him with the wrong meds........................ long story short, after consulting with CVS, and not taking their word for it, the Cardiologist, we all had a good laugh, as it was not a menacing drug at all, and no harm done.......... at least to him. I told the Cardiologist that he has a new patient, as I was having a heart attack. There's more to the ups and downs of this........... but I'm having a Corona, my favorite of Beer's......... and I truly don't want to type anymore......... tomorrow, I will tell Dad, that his daughter almost killed him.
Tonight, I will relish in the fact that he is indeed okay............ for the moment.
I do have to say this........... I'm not stupid, just exhausted from taking care of my Dad, and his precarious health......... AND, the last names on the bottle ARE the same......... so there you have it.............. oh, there is one amazingly important, greatly wonderful part about the significance of today, it is Dave and my 17 month lid anniversary..................
I had hope for the little guy,
To me, it seemed another
rescue gone good, but I did have thoughts that he did have rabies
At least no one would be injured from him...........
This picture needs to be switched, and I have to figure out how to delete it.
As I've said before, this bloggin thing is new to me and I stink at it and computers.
Me, animals, no question I'd jump in to help....... I ran over in my P.J.'s, only to find this young, definitely sick raccoon. Rabies has been on the rise here on Long Island, and I really wasn't looking for trouble. For a fleeting moment, I thought maybe I should ask my husband to shoot him.........., he's a retired Detective, but that thought was quickly dismissed.
I quickly ran for backup........ it's great having Dave home, especially in times like these. I had already done a preliminary assessment of this animal, and truly, it needed to be contained, and in my heart I knew it had to be destroyed.
Keri was quick to supply the perfect container, and a sheet, which I had thrown in his direction. He definitley had neurological issues, as his footing was unsure, his hearing not acute, and at times he looked as though he was falling over. Anyway, I threw this sheet which caught him off guard, and as he stumbled and tried to regain his footing, Dave plopped this plastic container over him. I then slid the top of the container, under him, and we secured it, and gradually flipped him, well rolled him actually till he was upright with the lid securely on top.
Job done, air holes made, I loaded him into the car, to take him to Volunteers For Wildlife..... except we hit one glitch......... while Dave and I were trapping the critter, Keri was calling various places, but had not actually finished listening to the recording regarding raccoons, and how they would not be accepted by this facility.
That put a crimp in my plans, as I was doing this on the way to my Father, probably sitting by the phone, fully packed, dressed and ready to go since the call he made to me at 8:19.
So, I drive out to Lloyds Neck with this scary little guy next to me the whole way........ thoughts of him breaking loose if I have to stop short, and visions of a John Candy, Chevy Chase movie come to mind. I can see the hysterics of a loose, rabid raccoon, chasing me around a car that is traveling along at 40mph.
Anyway, the drive out to Lloyds Neck is always pleasant...... in fact, you have to pass some beautiful landscapes, Osprey Nests, Long Island Sound, and an old home of Billy Joel's. But, my happy attitude is quickly zapped, as V.F.W., won't accept my passenger, and I am reminded of the recording that Keri didn't finish listening to stating they do not accept Raccoons.
Well, there I am with my thumb up my _ _ _, nah, I'm left with one other choice. Stop at the local Police Station that I had to pass on the way and plead my case about the situation and hope that they will at least take this animal off of my hands if not completely, then for the time it takes me to spring my Dad.
I walk into the Station, and they are the nicest, sweetest Police Officers. They absolutely agreed to take the Raccoon, and call Animal Control. I was told by V.F.W. that if I was to call Animal Control on my own to retrieve this animal, there would be a charge, and it would be quite expensive............. I have to deposit this animal, now and be done with it. So, I was overjoyed by the fact that they would take him and call the authorities..... but not before giving me the third degree on whether I had touched it, where I found it, etc, and understandably so. BUT, the funniest thing was how scared everyone was to pick up the container that housed him.
As if it was infectious through the plastic........ jeeeze, maybe it was........
Okay, there's more........but the short version is this. I FINALLY go and get my Dad. We have a wonderful dinner...... I love to cook, and we ate a meal fit for a King...... Chilean Sea Bass, and Orange Roughy.......... and all of the trimmings., Udon noodles and sauteed mushrooms and zuchinni........... yum!!!!! I pick up all of Dad's new meds, and proceed to give them to him, glancing at the labels............ this man takes so many medications............ we go through them all, and then I notice that not only are there the three meds that have his name on it, there is an additional one, THAT I GAVE HIM, that has someone elses name on it........... OH MY GOD, I ALMOST KILLED MY FATHER!!!. Now I visualize having to run to the Emergency room, but you have to understand, this man has been in and out of the E.R. three times this past week alone, and the final time he was admitted and had to have emergency surgery......... he finally got out, but it's actually worse....... he's been in and out of the hospital since July, and he was finally on the mend, that is until I POISONED him with the wrong meds........................ long story short, after consulting with CVS, and not taking their word for it, the Cardiologist, we all had a good laugh, as it was not a menacing drug at all, and no harm done.......... at least to him. I told the Cardiologist that he has a new patient, as I was having a heart attack. There's more to the ups and downs of this........... but I'm having a Corona, my favorite of Beer's......... and I truly don't want to type anymore......... tomorrow, I will tell Dad, that his daughter almost killed him.
Tonight, I will relish in the fact that he is indeed okay............ for the moment.
I do have to say this........... I'm not stupid, just exhausted from taking care of my Dad, and his precarious health......... AND, the last names on the bottle ARE the same......... so there you have it.............. oh, there is one amazingly important, greatly wonderful part about the significance of today, it is Dave and my 17 month lid anniversary..................
My Double Rainbow
Me and Kodi, my best friend and confident for 16 years.....................................................................My Double Rainbow
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
Struggling to keep the car under control, I am bombarded yet again by several more rounds of bucketing, torrents of rain. Leaning in towards the dashboard, straining to see the road, I am forced to grapple with these switches, trying in vain to increase the effectiveness of the wipers. Set on the highest of speeds, much to my amazement the windshield remains virtually obliterated.
Several intense, extraordinary lightning bolts strike on the horizon, rivaling a grandiose fireworks show. But this spectacular display of Mother Nature is suddenly squelched by an enormous thunder clap, vehemently rumbling overhead.
Glancing in my rearview mirror, I can see the intensity of this storm, the sky explosive with anger. Anger, and energy that has mounted, due to the Law of Nature. My attention is suddenly thrust forward as the car spins out of control, hydroplaning through an impromptu deluge.
Regaining the wheel, and ultimately my composure, I can’t help but think that I am making a terrible mistake; and as I proceed towards my destination, this gnawing apprehension, delves deeper, and further into the recesses of my soul. It was at this very moment, that the sun poked through a tiny opening in the clouds up ahead. It was evident that this rain storm, WAS ending. Gradually, the skies brightened, and what was black, turned strikingly blue, and off in the distance to my sheer wonder, was the faintest glimpse of a rainbow. My fears completely vanished when this rainbow became two, mirror images of one another, an intensely rare phenomenon. Awestruck, I bore witness to a Double Rainbow, this was most certainly a sign, a much appreciated sign. For I have heard that only those who are truly lucky will bear witness to the elusive magnitude, of the Double Rainbow.
So, with renewed enthusiasm, I excitedly turned my attention towards my destination. Lost in thought, and anticipation, I didn’t recall arriving, or the time that had elapsed. As I turned into the driveway and found a place to park, it was as if my whole body was being propelled forward, as though, I was being drawn in. I made my way through the entrance and down a winding passageway. Corridor, after corridor, I walked; searching all the while, scanning left, right, up, and down, never registering the squeals, yipes, and yelps, echoing all around me.
Suddenly, my pace slowed, whilst my pulse quickened, and I knew there was no turning back. As our eyes met for the first time, I slowly outstretched my hand. It was then that I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, with every fiber of my being, that this journey was kismet. Every episode of my life has led me here, to this place, to this very door, which would soon open to a World of endless possibilities. As the cage door was unfastened, she catapulted into my arms, this small bundle of fluff, and fur, not only grabbed hold of my body, she instantly grabbed hold of my heart. I was never, as sure of anything in my life, for destiny brought us together……….. this was indeed, no mistake.
Adoption complete, I placed this happy little puppy into the passenger seat of my car where she calmly surveyed the world from her perch, as we drove on our way. I named her Kodi, short for Kodiak, as she looked like a small, stuffed, Kodiak Bear. Majestic in appearance, this Chow/Golden Retriever, rivaled any purebred. I gazed over, bursting with joy, and tenderness for this creature, as I knew she would be my companion, my confidante, my child. I fantasized about the times we would have together, the hours of play and affection; the years of mutual loyalty, and absolute unconditional love.
I blinked but for a second, wiping some tears that began to fall from my eyes, but these tears of joy quickly turned to tears of sadness. I gazed towards my passenger, knowing that those dreams I envisioned, weren’t dreams at all. For 16 years had passed in a flash, sixteen years of intense dedication and uncompromising devotion. This WAS my best friend.
Kodi had matured into a magnificent, regal, intelligent and sensitive dog, and it was just one day ago, that I drove her lifeless body slowly, and mournfully, off to be cremated. Her priceless, precious remains had been gingerly placed on the seat beside me, with the utmost of care. The importance of treating her with the dignity and respect that she had given me all these years was paramount.
Wiping the moisture from my cheeks, it seemed as though the Universe echoed my pain, for as my tears continued to fall, droplets of rain began to slap the pavement. And as I reminisced about the past, I felt joy mingled with sorrow. I felt such a loss, and my mind screamed out, I embraced this storm with the fierceness and passion it exhibited. I felt great solace in the thunder and lightening thrashing all around me. But in a moment, the storm ended, and a serene calmness ensued. I breathed a long sigh and smiled perhaps for the first time in 2 days…..for a rainbow had formed, and I reflected back to that day when I saw a Double Rainbow, and I recounted, for only those who are truly lucky, will bear witness to the elusive magnitude of the Double Rainbow.
And, yes, I am sincerely lucky, I HAVE been truly blessed, for I had the honor, to have been loved by a Canine, that I called Kodi, My Double Rainbow.
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
Struggling to keep the car under control, I am bombarded yet again by several more rounds of bucketing, torrents of rain. Leaning in towards the dashboard, straining to see the road, I am forced to grapple with these switches, trying in vain to increase the effectiveness of the wipers. Set on the highest of speeds, much to my amazement the windshield remains virtually obliterated.
Several intense, extraordinary lightning bolts strike on the horizon, rivaling a grandiose fireworks show. But this spectacular display of Mother Nature is suddenly squelched by an enormous thunder clap, vehemently rumbling overhead.
Glancing in my rearview mirror, I can see the intensity of this storm, the sky explosive with anger. Anger, and energy that has mounted, due to the Law of Nature. My attention is suddenly thrust forward as the car spins out of control, hydroplaning through an impromptu deluge.
Regaining the wheel, and ultimately my composure, I can’t help but think that I am making a terrible mistake; and as I proceed towards my destination, this gnawing apprehension, delves deeper, and further into the recesses of my soul. It was at this very moment, that the sun poked through a tiny opening in the clouds up ahead. It was evident that this rain storm, WAS ending. Gradually, the skies brightened, and what was black, turned strikingly blue, and off in the distance to my sheer wonder, was the faintest glimpse of a rainbow. My fears completely vanished when this rainbow became two, mirror images of one another, an intensely rare phenomenon. Awestruck, I bore witness to a Double Rainbow, this was most certainly a sign, a much appreciated sign. For I have heard that only those who are truly lucky will bear witness to the elusive magnitude, of the Double Rainbow.
So, with renewed enthusiasm, I excitedly turned my attention towards my destination. Lost in thought, and anticipation, I didn’t recall arriving, or the time that had elapsed. As I turned into the driveway and found a place to park, it was as if my whole body was being propelled forward, as though, I was being drawn in. I made my way through the entrance and down a winding passageway. Corridor, after corridor, I walked; searching all the while, scanning left, right, up, and down, never registering the squeals, yipes, and yelps, echoing all around me.
Suddenly, my pace slowed, whilst my pulse quickened, and I knew there was no turning back. As our eyes met for the first time, I slowly outstretched my hand. It was then that I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, with every fiber of my being, that this journey was kismet. Every episode of my life has led me here, to this place, to this very door, which would soon open to a World of endless possibilities. As the cage door was unfastened, she catapulted into my arms, this small bundle of fluff, and fur, not only grabbed hold of my body, she instantly grabbed hold of my heart. I was never, as sure of anything in my life, for destiny brought us together……….. this was indeed, no mistake.
Adoption complete, I placed this happy little puppy into the passenger seat of my car where she calmly surveyed the world from her perch, as we drove on our way. I named her Kodi, short for Kodiak, as she looked like a small, stuffed, Kodiak Bear. Majestic in appearance, this Chow/Golden Retriever, rivaled any purebred. I gazed over, bursting with joy, and tenderness for this creature, as I knew she would be my companion, my confidante, my child. I fantasized about the times we would have together, the hours of play and affection; the years of mutual loyalty, and absolute unconditional love.
I blinked but for a second, wiping some tears that began to fall from my eyes, but these tears of joy quickly turned to tears of sadness. I gazed towards my passenger, knowing that those dreams I envisioned, weren’t dreams at all. For 16 years had passed in a flash, sixteen years of intense dedication and uncompromising devotion. This WAS my best friend.
Kodi had matured into a magnificent, regal, intelligent and sensitive dog, and it was just one day ago, that I drove her lifeless body slowly, and mournfully, off to be cremated. Her priceless, precious remains had been gingerly placed on the seat beside me, with the utmost of care. The importance of treating her with the dignity and respect that she had given me all these years was paramount.
Wiping the moisture from my cheeks, it seemed as though the Universe echoed my pain, for as my tears continued to fall, droplets of rain began to slap the pavement. And as I reminisced about the past, I felt joy mingled with sorrow. I felt such a loss, and my mind screamed out, I embraced this storm with the fierceness and passion it exhibited. I felt great solace in the thunder and lightening thrashing all around me. But in a moment, the storm ended, and a serene calmness ensued. I breathed a long sigh and smiled perhaps for the first time in 2 days…..for a rainbow had formed, and I reflected back to that day when I saw a Double Rainbow, and I recounted, for only those who are truly lucky, will bear witness to the elusive magnitude of the Double Rainbow.
And, yes, I am sincerely lucky, I HAVE been truly blessed, for I had the honor, to have been loved by a Canine, that I called Kodi, My Double Rainbow.
Puppies, Puppies, Puppies !!!!! Here's mine
Gotcha Day 5/12/07
This was how Chelsea looked when we brought her home...... we were told that she was a Chow mix, and as my other two dogs were Chow mixes, this is what we truly wanted.
Ain't she cute????????
Awhhhhh,
I really should have cut out my feet,
actually not even sure if they are my feet.......... :)
But look at how she has changed so, she is becoming a Benji look alike.
She changes every day..........
We really love her sooooo much.
This was how Chelsea looked when we brought her home...... we were told that she was a Chow mix, and as my other two dogs were Chow mixes, this is what we truly wanted.
Ain't she cute????????
Awhhhhh,
I really should have cut out my feet,
actually not even sure if they are my feet.......... :)
But look at how she has changed so, she is becoming a Benji look alike.
She changes every day..........
We really love her sooooo much.
Back to the Hospital we go..........
I've been taking care of my Dad who's been having a tough time since his colon cancer surgery on August 2nd....... we had another emergency visit to the ER, and they had to admit him and do emergency surgery to rectify an infection that had previously developed and that has been treated by the Visiting Nurse Service.
My Dad has always been a fighter, but recently seems to be having a tough time mustering up the strength to fight. It saddens me, that he has spent the last six weeks in pain, thinking that each medical intervention would be the magic bullit to alleviate his pain............ my Dad is a tough cookie......... often a pain in the ass, and often abrasive and overbearing, BUT, he's my Dad, and I love him to pieces.
Once stood a strapping young good looking talented singer, and brillant man. I hope that he will heal and gain the strength, and will to bless us with his singing, and brillance again.
My Osprey Project
My husband Dave on the left pondering
the project. Jim Jones on the right.
He's my Osprey and Raptor Mentor.
He single handedly helped to restore the Osprey population on Long Island by installing some of the very first Osprey Poles.
We love Jim :)
There I am, proudly displaying what has taken over a year to materialize....
These will make a fine nest some day.
I spend so much time looking through that scope. It's aimed right on the nest, and that's how I spotted Henry's predicament in the first place. This was the picture that they ran in our local newspaper The Observer.
This was Henry...... we had such hopes for this majestic creature.
I will never forget him.
Volunteers For Wildlife took him in to assess his condition. He sure did show some spunk.
Hey, "What you lookin' at"????
Last year at this time, I bore witness to the harsh reality that nature is directly influenced by the human population. This is the material, waste really, that was used as nesting material by the Ospreys and later entangled baby Henry.
Every Action Has a Reaction, The Plight Of My Osprey
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
The Sunday morning of July 23rd, 2006 proved to be much like any other sun filled glorious summer day. After my morning coffee, my ritual would be to set up my telescope from my bedroom deck. Once in place another World opened up to me. Living across from the Jerome Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve, there is a vast expanse of wetlands….. The panoramic view can be breathtaking.
As I pulled the lens covers off, a couple of women walked by, oblivious to not only me, but to the world that lay across the field. I can remember they were complaining about something, or someone, and as their words became mere murmurs, I again refocused on my morning routine. This was the time of day that I loved the most. I zeroed in on my target, an Osprey nest that had been occupied by a family of five, mother, father and three fledglings.
The young were devouring some unfortunate live, floundering fish…. learning to manipulate their strong talons to hold and shred its flesh, but something was wrong. One of the babies could only maneuver a foot or so in diameter. It seemed as though it was having trouble with its right leg. I stepped back, telling myself that I was seeing things, but as I struggled to focus, the reality of the situation became clear. This baby was tethered to the nest.
I panicked. What would I do, who would I call, how could this tragic situation be rectified? I knew nothing about handling Raptors, and began to feel very helpless.
I started dialing every number that I could think of….. the Police, Town hall; I made numerous phone calls, much to no avail, remembering and kicking myself that of all days for this to occur, it would have to be Sunday.
I couldn’t imagine how this had happened, or why I hadn’t noticed this before, but the young had only started to take flight, and in doing so, I could see the plight of this suffering baby. When the nest was full, their legs were obstructed by the closeness of their bodies. Now that they soared above, I could see this lone baby stumbling and pulling, yanking its foot repeatedly in the hopes to free itself. As I looked even more intently it became evident that his leg was extremely swollen and discolored.
With my heart pounding, I phoned several Wildlife Rehabilitators. One had told me that they had the exact situation occur the week before in Smithtown, and made several suggestions of whom to call. Apparently, Ospreys are very innovative nest builders, and delight in finding twine, strings, plastic bags, fishing monofilament and debris of all kinds.
No one seemed able to help me, the Police, the Harbor Patrol, no one. I even phoned the rescuers of the Osprey from the week before, and they felt horrible in telling me that it was out their jurisdiction. Finally, I heard some positive news, Volunteers For Wildlife, in Lloyds Neck, work with a rescuer, Jim Jones. They phoned him mentioning my plight and he was anxious to help. He has a passion for Raptors and all wildlife, and has done much to help them. He’s even been responsible for setting up many of these nesting poles thereby single handedly increasing the Osprey population.
We spoke, and he agreed to come out first thing the next morning, the only time possible for him to make it, and hopefully it wouldn’t be too late.
I barely slept that night, wondering how my Osprey was faring…… first thing in the morning I rushed to that telescope. It was evident that not only was he suffering, but he was now lying down, and when he did move it seemed somewhat labored.
Alas, our rescuer arrived, and we hastefully trudged out to the Osprey Nest. We wondered how the family would react to our intervention. It took awhile to navigate through the wetlands, and finally we found our path, at times falling into sinkholes amongst the marsh.
When we reached our destination, the parents and the two able fledglings took flight, circling and circling, ever closer. They never swarmed us, as if they knew that we were there to help. The ladder was set, and Jim made the climb. The baby instantly lifted off, launching hard into the air, immediately making an arc as the tethered noose tightened. He flopped upside down with a snap, as the lead only afforded him about a foot past the nest, and there he hung.
It took several minutes for him to be freed, minutes that felt like hours. There were massive amounts of rope, twine, monofilament, fishing hooks and metal leads imbedded around his foot. Suddenly I was handed the bird. He was encased in a protective bag, a simple pillowcase, but the mere emotion of holding him, and knowing that he would be safe, enveloped me. Jim went back up the ladder and spent several more minutes eradicating the remaining deadly fishing garb.
And then they were gone. The baby Osprey was in need of immediate medical attention.
Attention that I was told had come none too soon. It was made clear that he would not have lived another day, and I was thankful that my prayers had been answered. At least he was safe, and hopefully the injuries sustained would not be too severe.
We joked about our “release party”. We’d call all the media, and make everyone aware of this hearty, robust, exquisite bird of prey. He represented hope, and survival, he represented freedom.
Well, disappointment was forthcoming. The Osprey, my Osprey suffered a severe laceration that severed its tendon, and the wound was infected. He had a fishing hook embedded in his foot, and its wire leader had sliced right through like a knife. But he WAS rescued, and tended too; wounds cleaned, his leg in a cast, meds administered, now only time would tell what his fate would be.
He’s currently healing, two months now, and on the road to recovery. It’s still not known whether he will ever be able to be released, and knowing that Ospreys do not take well to living in captivity, his fate is most uncertain. But what is certain, is that birds and wildlife everywhere are dying, dying because of people’s ignorance, or sheer apathy. If each of us would just pay more attention to the fact that we coexist, not only with other people, but with so many other living, breathing creatures, this World, our World would be a happier, safer place. We’ve all been taught that every action has a reaction, this is certainly evident here.
Pay it Forward, The Plight of my Osprey
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
The leaves have steadily been turning, and there is a distinct familiarity to the crisp chill in the air. I gaze over the quiet terrain that not long ago was teaming with life. Hours can slip away, while staring out at the expanse of land that is designated, The Jerome Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve.
The Osprey that had once been a part of my daily routine, invigorating and renewing my spirit have gone. They were my window to inner peace and a glimpse into paradise. One by one I watched them soar off, first the mother, then father, followed by one juvenile soon after. It seemed as though one final obstinate youngster would hold out for all time, ignoring the ever persistent drive to take wing and fly South, but then it too, was gone. Or so I had thought….. blinking my eyes to get a clearer picture I could barely make out something perched in the nest. It was the end of October, certainly this was no Osprey? I thought that I had heard of instances in which a youngster would stay on and Winter in its place of origin, but I was positive that this was never at this latitude. I strained even closer to get a glimpse, unable to fully focus or fathom what indeed was taking up residence here. I struggled in haste to place the telescope in position. I had nestled it far into the corner of my bedroom, having no longer felt the urgency to check on my brood each morning, since their departure. I found that it became a sad constant reminder that Winter was on it’s way.
Once everything was in place, my heart skipped a beat as I leaned in and peered through the telescope. Perched in audacious glory, was a seagull, in peaceful slumber. This was de ja vu……. it had been at least a month since I’d glanced through the scope, something that had become so familiar to me, an extension of myself. Every morning and several times throughout the day I’d stare out, gaping in awe at this domain. Their world had become my world since early Spring, when I first spotted the Male Osprey’s return, and I’d peek out, and glimpse into Heaven.
Once the female arrived I’d watch their courtship, and then they’d roost. I calculated when the first chick might hatch, and waited in anticipation. I gleefully squealed with delight when I unsuspectingly witnessed three fuzzy heads one cheerful morning. Three young fledglings that grew up strong and fast. But that seemed like ages ago, and I suddenly flashed back to that horrific day when I noticed that one of them, was suffering and tethered to its nest. Our eagerness for his release, after a well choreographed rescue, carried us through the long months of his rehab. A release, that inevitably would never take place.
I’ve not seen such dedication, as exhibited by the rehabilitators known as Volunteers for Wildlife, in Lloyds Neck, with their friend and fellow Raptor Rescuer, Jim Jones. They had gone to such lengths, to nurture and restore health to my forlorn baby Osprey. Their diligence and unyielding efforts led them from Veterinarian to Veterinarian for consult. Lastly, he was evaluated by experts at the Bronx Zoo, where they too were cautiously optimistic for his future. Then suddenly, and for no explicable reason, he took a turn for the worse. Perhaps it was being imprisoned in a cage with the constant unyielding need to move on; or never having had the ability to fully expand his wings, launching high into the air, taking that first flight, and soaring hundreds of feet above the nest. At no time would he have the opportunity to dive, plunging into the cool waters below, latching onto that very first fish. To never taste the blood, and victory of his first kill. To NEVER, EVER, experience freedom. These things still sadden me, and the hurt will remain for some time to come. We all had such high hopes for this little fellow, and the unfortunate truth is that this would never come to pass. I will always wonder the“what ifs”, (if only I had only noticed his plight sooner!)
The month that has gone by truly feels like several, and I can only imagine where the other members of this Osprey Family are, at this moment in time. Each in his/her own rightful place, traveling on a path encoded in its genes. Flapping, and soaring, for thousands, upon thousands of miles. For the young forging on, this is unchartered territory, a totally undetermined destination, and I pray that they are safe.
Most Northeast Osprey fly South over land, crossing the ocean at Cape Fear, and continue to fly further and further South, on its migration. This is often termed the “highway to the tropics”. They will Winter in South or Central America till one day the urge will overtake them to fly back from whence they came, and the young will find a mate. The parents in their monogamy will find each other again, and the species will live on. They all tend to separate in Winter, parents not only from juveniles , but from each other as well, too return in the Spring. The young will rest up and mature, honing their skills, as they may stay in their Winter spot for a year or more, before returning to where they were born; and carry on as those before.
That is hopefully what’s in store for the two remaining siblings. The third of this brood will not be returning, for that this is certain. Injuries sustained in the nest, that could not be healed led it’s caretakers to do the only humane thing. Humane seems like such a peculiar word, as this poor innocent creature would never have been in this position if it weren’t for Humanity in the first place.
So, now the grieving process continues, but in an effort to insure that this doesn’t happen again, it is my intention to take on the personal challenge of advocating for these beautiful, majestic birds. Perhaps educating our young children to be careful of their actions is a good place to start. Pay attention to your surroundings, and ALWAYS leave things better then they were before. Help to clean up our parks and waterways and emphasize the urgency in disposing fishing tackle and all garbage immediately and appropriately. This will be my message.
My mentor in the World of Osprey’s and Raptor’s, Mr. Jim Jones has offered to erect and install a couple of new nesting poles in the Ambro’s Preserve. In this way, perhaps we can honor this Ospreys ill-fated demise. It is my plan to help see this through.
So, next Spring, when life abounds, look up to the sky above this wetlands, Look way, way up high, and watch the miraculous beauty of our native Osprey and remember, that we are responsible for our World, and in turn their World. It is absolutely our duty to pay it forward.
***********************************************************************************
We are currently in the process of installing two new Osprey Poles. We built the poles several weeks ago, and are currently choreographing the installation that I hope will take place by the middle of September.
It is important for the current babies, "juvenilles" to eyeball these new poles before they make their way to South America. This way, the new poles perhaps will be imprinted in their memories, and they too will have offspring here.
.
the project. Jim Jones on the right.
He's my Osprey and Raptor Mentor.
He single handedly helped to restore the Osprey population on Long Island by installing some of the very first Osprey Poles.
We love Jim :)
There I am, proudly displaying what has taken over a year to materialize....
These will make a fine nest some day.
I spend so much time looking through that scope. It's aimed right on the nest, and that's how I spotted Henry's predicament in the first place. This was the picture that they ran in our local newspaper The Observer.
This was Henry...... we had such hopes for this majestic creature.
I will never forget him.
Volunteers For Wildlife took him in to assess his condition. He sure did show some spunk.
Hey, "What you lookin' at"????
Last year at this time, I bore witness to the harsh reality that nature is directly influenced by the human population. This is the material, waste really, that was used as nesting material by the Ospreys and later entangled baby Henry.
Every Action Has a Reaction, The Plight Of My Osprey
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
The Sunday morning of July 23rd, 2006 proved to be much like any other sun filled glorious summer day. After my morning coffee, my ritual would be to set up my telescope from my bedroom deck. Once in place another World opened up to me. Living across from the Jerome Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve, there is a vast expanse of wetlands….. The panoramic view can be breathtaking.
As I pulled the lens covers off, a couple of women walked by, oblivious to not only me, but to the world that lay across the field. I can remember they were complaining about something, or someone, and as their words became mere murmurs, I again refocused on my morning routine. This was the time of day that I loved the most. I zeroed in on my target, an Osprey nest that had been occupied by a family of five, mother, father and three fledglings.
The young were devouring some unfortunate live, floundering fish…. learning to manipulate their strong talons to hold and shred its flesh, but something was wrong. One of the babies could only maneuver a foot or so in diameter. It seemed as though it was having trouble with its right leg. I stepped back, telling myself that I was seeing things, but as I struggled to focus, the reality of the situation became clear. This baby was tethered to the nest.
I panicked. What would I do, who would I call, how could this tragic situation be rectified? I knew nothing about handling Raptors, and began to feel very helpless.
I started dialing every number that I could think of….. the Police, Town hall; I made numerous phone calls, much to no avail, remembering and kicking myself that of all days for this to occur, it would have to be Sunday.
I couldn’t imagine how this had happened, or why I hadn’t noticed this before, but the young had only started to take flight, and in doing so, I could see the plight of this suffering baby. When the nest was full, their legs were obstructed by the closeness of their bodies. Now that they soared above, I could see this lone baby stumbling and pulling, yanking its foot repeatedly in the hopes to free itself. As I looked even more intently it became evident that his leg was extremely swollen and discolored.
With my heart pounding, I phoned several Wildlife Rehabilitators. One had told me that they had the exact situation occur the week before in Smithtown, and made several suggestions of whom to call. Apparently, Ospreys are very innovative nest builders, and delight in finding twine, strings, plastic bags, fishing monofilament and debris of all kinds.
No one seemed able to help me, the Police, the Harbor Patrol, no one. I even phoned the rescuers of the Osprey from the week before, and they felt horrible in telling me that it was out their jurisdiction. Finally, I heard some positive news, Volunteers For Wildlife, in Lloyds Neck, work with a rescuer, Jim Jones. They phoned him mentioning my plight and he was anxious to help. He has a passion for Raptors and all wildlife, and has done much to help them. He’s even been responsible for setting up many of these nesting poles thereby single handedly increasing the Osprey population.
We spoke, and he agreed to come out first thing the next morning, the only time possible for him to make it, and hopefully it wouldn’t be too late.
I barely slept that night, wondering how my Osprey was faring…… first thing in the morning I rushed to that telescope. It was evident that not only was he suffering, but he was now lying down, and when he did move it seemed somewhat labored.
Alas, our rescuer arrived, and we hastefully trudged out to the Osprey Nest. We wondered how the family would react to our intervention. It took awhile to navigate through the wetlands, and finally we found our path, at times falling into sinkholes amongst the marsh.
When we reached our destination, the parents and the two able fledglings took flight, circling and circling, ever closer. They never swarmed us, as if they knew that we were there to help. The ladder was set, and Jim made the climb. The baby instantly lifted off, launching hard into the air, immediately making an arc as the tethered noose tightened. He flopped upside down with a snap, as the lead only afforded him about a foot past the nest, and there he hung.
It took several minutes for him to be freed, minutes that felt like hours. There were massive amounts of rope, twine, monofilament, fishing hooks and metal leads imbedded around his foot. Suddenly I was handed the bird. He was encased in a protective bag, a simple pillowcase, but the mere emotion of holding him, and knowing that he would be safe, enveloped me. Jim went back up the ladder and spent several more minutes eradicating the remaining deadly fishing garb.
And then they were gone. The baby Osprey was in need of immediate medical attention.
Attention that I was told had come none too soon. It was made clear that he would not have lived another day, and I was thankful that my prayers had been answered. At least he was safe, and hopefully the injuries sustained would not be too severe.
We joked about our “release party”. We’d call all the media, and make everyone aware of this hearty, robust, exquisite bird of prey. He represented hope, and survival, he represented freedom.
Well, disappointment was forthcoming. The Osprey, my Osprey suffered a severe laceration that severed its tendon, and the wound was infected. He had a fishing hook embedded in his foot, and its wire leader had sliced right through like a knife. But he WAS rescued, and tended too; wounds cleaned, his leg in a cast, meds administered, now only time would tell what his fate would be.
He’s currently healing, two months now, and on the road to recovery. It’s still not known whether he will ever be able to be released, and knowing that Ospreys do not take well to living in captivity, his fate is most uncertain. But what is certain, is that birds and wildlife everywhere are dying, dying because of people’s ignorance, or sheer apathy. If each of us would just pay more attention to the fact that we coexist, not only with other people, but with so many other living, breathing creatures, this World, our World would be a happier, safer place. We’ve all been taught that every action has a reaction, this is certainly evident here.
Pay it Forward, The Plight of my Osprey
By Shelley Contin-Hubbs
The leaves have steadily been turning, and there is a distinct familiarity to the crisp chill in the air. I gaze over the quiet terrain that not long ago was teaming with life. Hours can slip away, while staring out at the expanse of land that is designated, The Jerome Ambro Memorial Wetlands Preserve.
The Osprey that had once been a part of my daily routine, invigorating and renewing my spirit have gone. They were my window to inner peace and a glimpse into paradise. One by one I watched them soar off, first the mother, then father, followed by one juvenile soon after. It seemed as though one final obstinate youngster would hold out for all time, ignoring the ever persistent drive to take wing and fly South, but then it too, was gone. Or so I had thought….. blinking my eyes to get a clearer picture I could barely make out something perched in the nest. It was the end of October, certainly this was no Osprey? I thought that I had heard of instances in which a youngster would stay on and Winter in its place of origin, but I was positive that this was never at this latitude. I strained even closer to get a glimpse, unable to fully focus or fathom what indeed was taking up residence here. I struggled in haste to place the telescope in position. I had nestled it far into the corner of my bedroom, having no longer felt the urgency to check on my brood each morning, since their departure. I found that it became a sad constant reminder that Winter was on it’s way.
Once everything was in place, my heart skipped a beat as I leaned in and peered through the telescope. Perched in audacious glory, was a seagull, in peaceful slumber. This was de ja vu……. it had been at least a month since I’d glanced through the scope, something that had become so familiar to me, an extension of myself. Every morning and several times throughout the day I’d stare out, gaping in awe at this domain. Their world had become my world since early Spring, when I first spotted the Male Osprey’s return, and I’d peek out, and glimpse into Heaven.
Once the female arrived I’d watch their courtship, and then they’d roost. I calculated when the first chick might hatch, and waited in anticipation. I gleefully squealed with delight when I unsuspectingly witnessed three fuzzy heads one cheerful morning. Three young fledglings that grew up strong and fast. But that seemed like ages ago, and I suddenly flashed back to that horrific day when I noticed that one of them, was suffering and tethered to its nest. Our eagerness for his release, after a well choreographed rescue, carried us through the long months of his rehab. A release, that inevitably would never take place.
I’ve not seen such dedication, as exhibited by the rehabilitators known as Volunteers for Wildlife, in Lloyds Neck, with their friend and fellow Raptor Rescuer, Jim Jones. They had gone to such lengths, to nurture and restore health to my forlorn baby Osprey. Their diligence and unyielding efforts led them from Veterinarian to Veterinarian for consult. Lastly, he was evaluated by experts at the Bronx Zoo, where they too were cautiously optimistic for his future. Then suddenly, and for no explicable reason, he took a turn for the worse. Perhaps it was being imprisoned in a cage with the constant unyielding need to move on; or never having had the ability to fully expand his wings, launching high into the air, taking that first flight, and soaring hundreds of feet above the nest. At no time would he have the opportunity to dive, plunging into the cool waters below, latching onto that very first fish. To never taste the blood, and victory of his first kill. To NEVER, EVER, experience freedom. These things still sadden me, and the hurt will remain for some time to come. We all had such high hopes for this little fellow, and the unfortunate truth is that this would never come to pass. I will always wonder the“what ifs”, (if only I had only noticed his plight sooner!)
The month that has gone by truly feels like several, and I can only imagine where the other members of this Osprey Family are, at this moment in time. Each in his/her own rightful place, traveling on a path encoded in its genes. Flapping, and soaring, for thousands, upon thousands of miles. For the young forging on, this is unchartered territory, a totally undetermined destination, and I pray that they are safe.
Most Northeast Osprey fly South over land, crossing the ocean at Cape Fear, and continue to fly further and further South, on its migration. This is often termed the “highway to the tropics”. They will Winter in South or Central America till one day the urge will overtake them to fly back from whence they came, and the young will find a mate. The parents in their monogamy will find each other again, and the species will live on. They all tend to separate in Winter, parents not only from juveniles , but from each other as well, too return in the Spring. The young will rest up and mature, honing their skills, as they may stay in their Winter spot for a year or more, before returning to where they were born; and carry on as those before.
That is hopefully what’s in store for the two remaining siblings. The third of this brood will not be returning, for that this is certain. Injuries sustained in the nest, that could not be healed led it’s caretakers to do the only humane thing. Humane seems like such a peculiar word, as this poor innocent creature would never have been in this position if it weren’t for Humanity in the first place.
So, now the grieving process continues, but in an effort to insure that this doesn’t happen again, it is my intention to take on the personal challenge of advocating for these beautiful, majestic birds. Perhaps educating our young children to be careful of their actions is a good place to start. Pay attention to your surroundings, and ALWAYS leave things better then they were before. Help to clean up our parks and waterways and emphasize the urgency in disposing fishing tackle and all garbage immediately and appropriately. This will be my message.
My mentor in the World of Osprey’s and Raptor’s, Mr. Jim Jones has offered to erect and install a couple of new nesting poles in the Ambro’s Preserve. In this way, perhaps we can honor this Ospreys ill-fated demise. It is my plan to help see this through.
So, next Spring, when life abounds, look up to the sky above this wetlands, Look way, way up high, and watch the miraculous beauty of our native Osprey and remember, that we are responsible for our World, and in turn their World. It is absolutely our duty to pay it forward.
***********************************************************************************
We are currently in the process of installing two new Osprey Poles. We built the poles several weeks ago, and are currently choreographing the installation that I hope will take place by the middle of September.
It is important for the current babies, "juvenilles" to eyeball these new poles before they make their way to South America. This way, the new poles perhaps will be imprinted in their memories, and they too will have offspring here.
.
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