A Chance for Bliss

Open House Cancelled

2011-09-08T07:03:00.000-07:00

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Open Houses have been cancelled indefinitely. We hope to re-institute this service soon and appreciate your support and understanding.

A Peek into Heaven

2011-08-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

Our remarkable sheep, Cielo ('Heaven' roughly), came to us very close to death having been severely neglected by an animal hoarder. She suffers the irreparable effects of malnutrition, but she continues to grow stronger in spirit.

Cielo receives very special privileges and recently began spending her days next door. We are sincerely grateful that Marianne and Jessica Stovall are developing quite a fondness for the sweet sheep. Often, Marianne will accompany Cielo back to her studio apartment where she can relax and enjoy a much wider variety of food than any other being on the ranch. There is nothing sweeter than a sheep (though Indian Runner ducks are awfully special, too.)

This little girl is one of the most precious we have known. Without your support, we could not help innocent babies like Cielo. It is quite likely that she will not enjoy a long life and we'd like to pack in as much love (and goodies) as we can. If you make it to the ranch, do yourself the favor of sitting with her for a bit. She'll even lift a back leg a bit so you can rub her tummy.

Here's a bit of video.

Just a Snippet

2011-08-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

This silly little video is random and a bit disconnected, but there are many cute personality quirks in this menagerie and I can't seem to find the time to present them in an organized, logical manner, so I'm just gonna toss some stuff out there as I am able to capture it.

In a nutshell, when you have no eyes and are mostly deaf, the concept of time has no matter. 'Amazing' Grace is not the frail girl ~ she lets out one clear, loud bark to announce that she has a need ("Potty-Water-Cookie") and it is our responsibility to respond and determine which. I respond with the potty option first to avoid accidents. Often, potty is not the right answer and her response makes me laugh. Paddington would politely walk out two steps, turn around and walk right back in, but not our sassy Texan.

I apologize for the poor narration ~ I talk to them like this all the time and didn't create a production piece. I hope it brings a small smile. The inmates run the asylum.

2011-08-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Sanctuary Update + Upcoming Events - 2011

With the continued support of our monthly giving sponsors and new donations that came in, we're looking pretty good for August - thank you!

We are currently at about 700 sponsors, and our ultimate goal is to get to the 2,500 mark. At that level, we will be at complete sustainability, can rely less on donations, and further concentrate our efforts on helping more animals. We are grateful to everyone who is spreading the word about the work we do, so keep it up!

We'd love to see you at our next Open House on August 13th, from 12 - 5 p.m. Everyone is invited, and we are especially reaching out to seniors this month to come meet our senior animals!

Mark your calendar for the rest of our Open Houses through the end of the year (we are closed for December and January):

September 10th - Fun for Kids
October 8th - Halloween Fun
November 12th - Giving Thanks

"Round Table" with Dr. Rich Jackson
Animal Medical Center, Auburn

Think of all those questions you've wanted to ask your vet, but you forgot, or were running out of time, or maybe you were too embarrassed to ask. Happens all the time. Well, here's your chance to ask Dr. Jackson any and all questions you have about your beloved pet or farm animal.

Dr. Jackson is the veterinarian for the sanctuary, and we appreciate his kind and knowledgeable services. So, bring that list of questions and come join us on Saturday, August 27, from 1 - 4 p.m. for a fun and enjoyable roundtable discussion. $35/person. Advance registration is highly recommended; please go to our home page and click on the class to register.

(Here's our other classes through the end of the year: Horse Sense 101; Cranial Sacral & Other Integrative Healing Therapies for Your Equine; and Cooking for Your Pet & Christmas Treats!)

Monthly Giving - "Homers Heroes"

Our sponsorship program is affectionately named after our "spokes pig" Homer. Our Heroes play an important role in the welfare of our residents.

A minimum $10 monthly donation goes a long way in the care and feeding of our animals, many who have urgent medical needs. You can become a sponsor by going to the HOW TO HELP section on our website.

Each month, we will send you the latest news on what's going on at the sanctuary, along with a large glossy photo and bio of the animal of the month in the category that you choose to sponsor.

"... I have decided to make a sacrifice and give up some of my Starbucks coffee runs ... It was a tough decision (LOL) but one I must make to help you in your mission which I hope one day will be mine. I was in the $10/month program, but let's double that to $20/month... God bless you for all you do. ~ Susan M.

Volunteers

We are slowly but surely putting together a fine team of volunteers. (Here's our wonderful office volunteer, Marta below!) We currently have a strong need for help in the areas of fundraising and grant writing.

We are also looking for volunteers to help out at Dog Day at Green Acres on August 13th and the Eggplant Festival in Loomis on October 1st. If you are able to give 3-4 hours of time on either of these days, we'd love to hear from you - please contact lydia@achanceforbliss.com

Victory for Animals!

Senate Bill 917, which prohibits the sale of animals on the street, in parking lots and other similar roadside venues was signed into law today by California Governor Jerry Brown.

Says the ASPCA's Jill Buckley, "By signing S.B. 917, Governor Brown recognizes the need to safeguard animals sold in public parking lots and roadside venues, and puppies, kittens and other pets will no longer be left to suffer in unsanitary and overcrowded cages without proper food and water." The new law also increases the penalty for animal cruelty neglect to up to one year in jail.

Outtakes ~ Kathy

2011-06-26T22:24:00.000-07:00

I take a lot of pictures... A lot. Sometimes my subjects just don't cooperate and that perfect shot sometimes take 25 or so tries. I just don't think they understand how important it is for them to hold a certain pose - ok, lemme be honest, the good ones are pure luck. I don't get to the sanctuary as often as I like now that I have a job that requires me to work weekends. Taking the photos gives me a chance to see each and every one. Tonight I was looking through some old pictures and wanted to share the outtakes.

Paddington deciding to fit in a quick chop licking.

Hendry telling me that this angle make her face look chubby.

Lady deciding the camera was more interesting than having her picture taken.

Ok, this isn't really an outtake but Homer has a great sense of humor and style.

I hope everyone is enjoying the summer.

Kathy

Charlotte ~ Kathy

2011-06-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

While all the animals are special, I became particularly attached to Charlotte, the pig. She was the only pig that would talk to me - well, that is using the word talk lightly. She would make these incredible squealing noises that made her sound annoyed, bothered and well just plain mad. At first I thought I was getting too close or that she just didn't like people (me especially) - that changed when I finally stuck around to see why she was so vocal. She eventually let me pet and brush her. When I would sit in the chairs facing the horses in the front, she would sit at my feet. Once I sat next to her on the front lawn, we both enjoyed the sun for about 30 minutes. She also had a fan in L.A., my friend Lea. I would call Lea and Charlotte would talk to her. During the winter she claimed a dog bed and tack room of her own. I popped in to say Hi and the sides of the bed make it look like she was in a puffy taco shell. When Deanna told me she passed away last month, a hole was left in my heart. I know that the time I spent with her was special and I want to believe she is still squealing sweet songs somewhere out there.

Sanctuary Update

2011-05-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has called and emailed in response to the News 10 Story. While we are so very appreciate of the media attention, the reporter’s commitment and passion, I do want to take the tone of the plea down a notch, and better clarify our current situation.

With close to 100 animals to feed, veterinary costs related to caring for a senior and special needs population, facility rent, fuel, supplies, etc… it all adds up to more than $20,000 per month. We have always prided ourselves on giving great care to the displaced animals that find their way to us, and feel that in doing so we are both honoring them while also demonstrating to others that a high quality of life is indeed possible for animals, even for seniors.

Yes, we have been struggling financially. While we have gained some great acclaim and attention over the last 12 months, and in doing so averted foreclosure, the fact of the matter is that right now we do not have $20,000 coming in every month. We have been able to make it month to month by tapping into our reserve fund so that we could balance each month, but now there is no reserve.

So, as it currently stands, there is a projected deficit for June with no reserve to offset that, and that is obviously a significant problem. While it was not accurate to say we would close our doors in two weeks, the truth is that if we do not receive more monthly support right away we would not be able to continue.

The good news is that we do have a very simple solution. Our sponsor program is just $10 per month, and if we can get 1,500 more people to sign up as monthly sponsors (i.e. in addition to the 500 we have now,) we will have a reliable, steady income which will cover our monthly expenses.

We have designed the program to be a true win-win. I know the program is cost effective for the sanctuary. We can produce a mailing for $1, and that means $9 is available to the sanctuary (note: that $1 of cost is already accounted for in the $20,000 above). I also know that people love the monthly sponsor updates. The feedback I get each month tells me that the program is informative, fun, and so very worthwhile. We created the program with the thought that a small amount of financial support from a lot of people would be the best way to keep the sanctuary funded.

We do not want to be the organizational manifestation of the boy who cried wolf, and quite frankly would rather be in the news for how well our animals are doing, but while we are grateful for the media we ultimately do not have control over the tenor or tone of each broadcast. Some are more dramatic than others, and that can make us cringe, even when we do need the help.

In the end, if you are called to help please help us find more sponsors, and if we can do that I know we can move past the point of drama to a place of peaceful sustainability.

Thank you for your love and support…Woody and Deanna

Wow! Blogging... I Almost Forgot How!

2011-04-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

The first thing that struck me is that there are now 50 blog followers. Thank you! We are grateful and should be making the time to give you some interesting reads now and again.

It isn't for lack of fodder; this journey undulates like Santa Cruz's Giant Dipper, racing through the completely unexpected, shooting skyward to acutely moving and inspiring, then plummeting into sorrow and surrender, sometimes tempered by a sense of providence, relaxing into the comfort and predictability of the mundane, then rising again through the hopes and promise of another new beginning.

The truth is that I yearn to capture the stories and their associated feelings not only to share with those who care to know, but so that I might have them to look back upon. There are souls who have touched me so deeply that I might never look upon their photo without partially reliving the loss, and I am intensely grateful for the communion. This is both the most gratifying and the most difficult undertaking, but it is rich and full of the very essence of what it means to be human.

Today I have a simple share offering a new avenue of support. We have joined as an affiliate of Stateline Tack and Horse.com, which means that we will receive 6% of sales that originated through the links on our site (forthcoming.) I have become a seasoned online consumer as well as a spreadsheet crazy comparison shopper. We purchase our equine supplements and fly control through both and I am confident that we could not find better prices.

Zulu and Eddie Model Defender Flymasks in Silver and Black
Customized, of Course
If your life includes a best friend who nickers, please consider giving these comprehensive sites a look. Each month, I look forward to seeing what new and innovative products have been introduced.

Thank you for considering our new partners and enjoy this prime pony weather.

Deanna

Walk For Thought

2011-03-02T08:57:00.000-08:00

Great news! This year’s Walk for Thought is coming up. Save the date on Sunday, March 27th 2011. This year our walk will be at the State Capitol. We will meet at the West Steps of the Capitol on 10th St., between L & N Streets. Make sure you, your family, and friends join “Team Easter Seals”. This will be my third year of “walking” the event “with a walker”. So join me in raising awareness for brain injury, whether it is a Traumatic or Acquired brain injury. Before I forget you can register for the walk at www.biacal.org. Don’t forget to register under “Team Easter Seals.” We want to have a great turnout. I’ll see you at the Capitol on the 27th of March, don’t forget and don’t be lazy!

Hector

Chevy's Fresh Mex

2011-01-24T08:40:00.001-08:00

Save this date: Wednesday January 26th from 4pm-9pm. Chevys of Elk Grove will host the annual scholarship fundraiser for the Brain Injury Association Of California’s, 4th Annual Walk For Thought. Chevys of Elk Grove is located at 7401 Laguna Blvd; they will donate 25% of the proceeds to the fundraiser. So, be sure to invite all your family and friends to enjoy Chevys fabulous cuisine. The Walk for Thought is important because it makes people aware of TBI’s and ABI’s . In case you didn’t know TBI stands for Traumatic Brain Injury and ABI stands for Acquired Brain Injury. So, be sure and save this date for our scholarship fundraiser, and please attend. If you plan to attend, please be sure to print the flyer and bring it with you. It will need to be attached to each bill. Also, please email Meghan Burke at MeghanB@myeasterseals.org with a RSVP with the number of people attending.

Hector Patino

A Peek from Behind the Scenes ~ Kathy

2011-01-21T21:02:00.000-08:00

As the (self appointed unofficial amateur) photographer for the Sponsor Program, I am grateful I get to interact with each and every animal, document events like Homer's Birthday, Walk it Woof it or Hoof it or an Easter Seals visit where my own dog Louie met Hector + get to help out doing whatever is needed.

Being behind the scenes has let me be part of some pretty big happenings last year.

The support that came in after the USA Today article was wonderful. I helped open the letters and was just completely overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of so many people from all around the world. It was very humbling to be a part of a such an event.

I had the pleasure of staying at the ranch with Jordan and her boyfriend when Woody and Deanna took their first vacation in 5 years last Fall. I knew I wouldn't be able to walk a mile in their shoes, but figured I would get further then 12ft. It was hard work and a great experience. Woody and Deanna gave me a greater respect for their love and commitment to the residents here. My favorite part was being in the pasture at night sitting on the wash rack looking at the stars and listening to the horse sounds.

On a more personal note, my friends came to visit us from Australia. A Chance for Bliss was right up at the top of their to do list. Meeting their children after them watching them grow up through emails, photos and phone calls was just well, I don't know if superfabuloustastic is a word but you get the idea - it was awesome. Abby was instantly drawn to Max. And Max wants to wish Abby Good Luck at her first day of High School. (us too!) But it was Joy who wanted to have her picture taken and Abby was happy to oblige.

You can usually find me brushing horses when I am not 'on assignment'. Yesterday was a beautiful day. It was so nice to see the sun and watch the animals burning off some of that rain energy that has been stored up.

Lastly, I will leave you with some shots I got while trying to take some updated pics of the residents. I've tried to take self portraits with all the animals, some are more cooperative then others. If there is a resident you would like to see updated on our webpages, please send me an email kathy@achanceforbliss.com

Handsome trying to lead Dusty around

Homer Showing off his newly shined tusk

My self portrait with Sue Sue

And Casper trying to crash Bowtie's Photoshoot

Holiday Shoppe Success

2011-01-13T14:52:00.000-08:00

From Tony greeting you when you walked in the door to the aroma of chocolate chip cookies, the ambiance of the Holidays was everywhere. You could hear festive Holiday music in every nook and cranny of our HTR Shoppe. Anthony and Lawrence served apple-cider and cookies from our “snack shack”. Les was busy selling raffle tickets, for our fabulous prizes. Al our friendly cashier would ring up your sale, with flair and pizzazz. On a couple of occasions Deanna of A Chance for Bliss brought animals along for a visit. The “star” hands-down was “Gordo”, the corpulent and rotund bunny that everyone wanted to see and touch. I want to thank the many community organizations for donating prizes for the raffle. Now a drum roll please…….the grand total that we will donate to A Chance for Bliss this year will be, wait a minute. First I would like to thank all of the shoppers who made our Shoppe a success. The grand total is $1345.93!

Thanks Hector

Where Was Deanna

2010-12-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, November 30th 2010, Easter Seals Superior California HTR program went on our monthly excursion to A Chance for Bliss. It’s an animal sanctuary, in Penryn California. Anthony drove the bus while Jasmine rode shotgun. Jasmine made the trip fun for everyone, by keeping our spirits up with a sing-along and trivia. When we arrived at the sanctuary we were greeted by Woody, but Deanna was nowhere to be seen. Rachel arrived a short time later; she promptly joined Woody and put us to work. Rik and Joe, our “manure valets,” went to work immediately; they must have picked up tons of odoriferous horse poop. Jim and Jill were inseparable and that was just fine. Anthony and Ron V. promptly commenced bathing a virtual plethora of Boston Terriers. I kept Kevin and Tom busy by helping me grind flax. I think everybody did a stellar job, you see we were kind of shorthanded this trip. I guess the weather must have kept some clients home. Deanna showed up a little later, she had been meeting with the photographer, in order to get the A Chance for Bliss calendar ready. By the way Easter Seals, at 3205 Hurley in Sacramento, is holding its annual Holiday Shoppe. All the proceeds will benefit A Chance for Bliss. So, don't forget to do your affordable Christmas shopping here at Easter Seals. You will be supporting a non-profit animal sanctuary. Remember take a tip from the dogs don't judge us by our walkers or our canes. Sniff our feet maybe, and then you can judge us by what's in our heart.

Hector

BowTie and Gem ~ Deanna

2010-11-05T01:51:00.000-07:00

Boston Terriers are susceptible to various forms of canine eye disease due to the prominence of their eyes. Over the last decade, we have experienced many and have become adept at identifying most.

Wednesday at 12:30, I took BowTie to Animal Eye Center, aware that she had developed an ulcer in her left eye. Dr. Thomasay said the ulcer was deep, 80% through the cornea, and she was in danger of rupturing her eye. Bow was a surgery candidate for a skin graft to repair the hole. We were given a protocol of autogenous serum and ofloxacin drops, to be given hourly ten minutes apart, with a recheck in the morning. BoBo was to be ready for surgery, just in case. There is already scarring from a previous ulcer in her right eye, which is somewhat opaque and inhibits vision.

Diligence paid off! Epithelial tissue has covered the entire ulcer, adding strength. Her eye is red as blood is imperative in the healing process. The protocol is reduced to six times daily with a revisit in a week. What a relief to avoid surgery, which would have been necessary one way or the other ~ to repair the eye or remove it. Even with a generous discount, the surgery would have been expensive.

Ulcers are quite painful, so she is given two pain meds.

We are so thrilled that such healing is taking place. It should only be a few more days.

Drowsy from the Pain Meds
On October 30, a sweet four year old Appaloosa mare arrived as per an agreement made back in April with Pregnant Mare Rescue in Aptos. We couldn't bring her home until her foal was weaned. Here is what Founder Lynn Hummer shared about Gem:

Originally pulled off a feedlot waiting to go to slaughter in Yakima Washington at approximate age of two, perfectly sound. Brought to California and sold. This person caused injury to her leg and then bred her. Broke his own leg and didn't want to deal with her. Brought her to me in September 2009. She was vet checked immediately. Pregnancy was confirmed and x-rays were taken of her leg. Our vet consulted with Steinbeck Equine Hospital. A volunteer dug around a bit & discovered she had been cowboyed up harshly in a deep sanded round pen. Seems no vet was called to examine.

Steinbeck recommended a brace, which didn't work, or surgery to fuse the bone. She appears to move without pain when her hooves are trimmed and kept in good condition. My farrier came out and put an extended shoe on her hoof and we began the task of watching her weight. She really only has three good legs. She is blessed with a long back and I think that helped her carry her foal successfully. She foaled on April 4, 2010 (Easter morning) without incident. After the birth, I had an equine chiropractor come out and do an adjustment, then an equine acupressure specialist, and I have had Reiki healers out four times.

Knowing her background, I was still shaken when I met Gem. Not only was she nervous about being hauled to a new place, watching her move made me cringe. All I could think about was the mindset of the man who bred this horse.

The following morning, Lydia came out and gave Gem some Reiki. Here is a video clip that clearly shows Gem relaxing and enjoying the attention. We watched her move all around the pasture. After all, she's been dealing with this gait (video clip) for at least 15 months ~ 11 months pregnant and four nursing her foal, Este.

I have not heard back yet from Lynn as to what type of brace they tried, but we have one in mind. In 2002, I learned about a company in Manteca that designs custom orthopedic leg braces for dogs and horses. They purchase supplies from Interstate Plastics where I worked for two years. I'm glad I remembered the company name because their site is not active. I called Monday night around 9pm expecting to leave a message. To my surprise, Tim Niswonger answered the phone and we had a lengthy conversation.

The dog brace website is up, but some unsavory experiences coupled with sporadic interest caused Tim to close the equine site.

Tim's been manufacturing orthodics for people for 30 years and began applying his knowledge to dogs and horses, working with Serenity Equine Hospital, Oregon State University, Pioneer Equine Hospital(Oakdale California), Littleton Large Animal Hospital, and Kesmarc of Kentucky. Every brace is 100% custom. Tim e-mailed a photo of a leg that looked just like Gem's, belonging to a horse that they experienced great success with. We're hoping to have a cast made by our vet sometime next week.

{Aside: Tim manufactured a leg brace for Gene Ovnicek who is recognized as a pioneer in the study of wild horse hoof form and function.}

Gem also needs to see a dentist. Biomechanically, the feet and the teeth are closely related. The muscles in Gem's forehead are highly developed, there is swelling in her left jaw.

This little mare has been through a lot and we look forward to giving her some relief. We expect the combined costs to eclipse $1,000 ~ any donation you might like to make for Gem will be greatly appreciated.

Lights..Camera...Action!

2010-11-02T15:30:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday October 26th 2010, Easter Seals Superior California HTR program went on our monthly visit to A Chance For Bliss, an animal sanctuary in Penryn California. It was a great trip with everyone singing and laughing. Anthony drove the bus and Jasmine rode shotgun. When we arrived at the sanctuary there was mystery in the air. Deanna had somebody filming us as we dis-embarked. We had arrived in the middle of a shoot by Emmy award winning cinematographer Ken Day and Emmy award winning Producer Joyce Mitchell. Mary Gale was doing a documentary for PBS and we walked in on it. We were treated to the inner-workings of a real life production company. I was very impressed by the members of the production company, especially the cinematographer Ken Day, he was very down to earth and personable. He had not gone “Hollywood” on us. The “crew” filmed members of HTR doing the volunteer work we do. The “crew” filmed Kim doing his magic with the horses, Ron and Steven cleaning saddles, while John and Anthony bathed dogs. Jim and Jillie could not be separated. Jill spent the entire day on Jim’s lap that was perfect for both of them. The “crew” even filmed Al, Rik, and I grinding flax seed. Rik was even interviewed by Mary Gale, I think the PBS “crew” actually liked us. So thanks to Woody and Deanna for letting us be a part of this very memorable and awe-inspiring event. Take a tip from the dogs don't judge us by our wheelchairs, dogs don't see our wheelchairs as being menacing, they just sniff us a little and jump on our lap. Then everything is okay.

Hector

Homer Steps Up

2010-10-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to officially announce Homer Le Porc as our spokespig. Homer's role is an important one as we expand to share the Wellness Institute aspect of our work.

If you are a fan of Facebook or Twitter, we encourage you to check him out there. He posts photos and stories as only he can. After all, Homer is his own pig.

Homer's eighth birthday is in November and will be celebrated at our Open House on Saturday, the 13th, from Noon until 5pm. Join us for treats and to celebrate all things Homie.

Here is the Special Edition newsletter.

I'm off to help him clean the mud off of his laptop ~

Al Gets Cake

2010-10-04T14:21:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday September 28th, 2010 Easter Seals Superior California HTR program took its monthly trip to A Chance For Bliss. Anthony drove the bus while Jasmine led the clients in a singing and sit-dance marathon. Everyone was laughing, participating, and having a great time. What I remember most about the ride was Jasmine laughing at the phrase, “who does that”, go figure. We sang happy birthday to Al on the bus, we might have been a little off key. When we arrived we were greeted by Deanna, Rachel, and the sight of a new gate. John and Ron V. got busy bathing dogs, Anthony helped them bathe dogs later but first he had to cut cheese. You see medication for the dogs is hidden in small pieces of cheese. Rik and Marcellos were brush cleaners while Al got to supervise because it was his birthday. Jim got to work outside; you see he was polishing saddles. Jill was on his lap the whole time. Steven, Tom and I got to grind flax seed. You should have seen us grinding flax seed. We had three grinders working; it was a regular assembly line. Flax is mixed into all animal food; it is supposed to be good for their coats as well as keeping them regular. So that is why Vince’s manure valet service is in such high demand. Vince is our best valet. Al got to supervise because it was his birthday. The best part of all, there was a birthday cake for Al it was both decadent and delicious. Before we got to eat the cake Deanna had to drive Paddington to the Veterinarian. I think the dog hurt a tooth, I hope he is okay. Remember take a tip from the dogs; do not pre-judge us by the color of our skin. Dogs do not care what color our skin may be. Dogs can just sniff our feet and know if they like us.

Hector

Fragile Circle ~ Deanna

2010-10-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

"We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached.

Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way.

We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,
never fully understanding the necessary plan."

Irving Townsend

I took a great horse for his final trailer ride yesterday.

Colic. I had no Banamine, so I gave him Bute, which roused him to his feet. Then I remembered a magic bullet. With great hope of providing a glowing testimonial, I administered the appropriate doses of a product that had come highly recommended ~ We Stop Colic.

Big Cloud was a high-strung Thoroughbred who normally danced when the hose came out, but he stood quietly as I rinsed his sweaty body. I wish I had found him sooner. The boys didn't recognize the signs.

We went for a walk at Traylor Ranch as we waited for the magic potion to kick in. He whinnied and whinnied as he hated to be alone. Stop, listen ~ no gut sounds. Return home and call the vet to say we're coming. He loaded into the trailer with minimal resistance, as well. Not himself.

Dr. Jill Higgins of Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center performed an ultrasound that revealed intestinal impaction, most likely caused by pedunculated lipomas, a condition common in older horses that requires surgery. I had never heard of this until July when Rachel lost her 30 year old Breezy. Surgery was out of the question for several reasons, not the least of which was his age of 35. Thankfully, this disorder comes on quickly so his discomfort was minimal. Dr. Higgins was warm, compassionate and understanding of my decison not to subject him to further procedures. Big Cloud was clearly uncomfortable and my primary concern was to ease this. This was "Goodbye."

Cloud had been given a sedative to facilitate the ultrasound and readily laid his head into my chest. I stroked his beautiful grey face as the technicians prepared braids of his mane and tail for me. How I have always loved that unusual face. I kissed his muzzle and spoke softly to him. He peacefully and easily walked to the designated area. Help at last. The Greek meaning of euthanasia is "goodly or easy death." He certainly deserved that.

I spent a fair amount of time researching the disorder and average lifespan of horses. In general, life expectancy is defined as 20-30 and a horse is deemed geriatric as early as 16. The median age for horses with this disorder is 19.

Cloud was with us for almost three years. During that time, he clearly thrived, especially after quality dental care. For nearly half of his residency, Daisy was his love. Cloud stood by as Daisy was euthanized in April 2009. Because this happened late in the day, rendering could not pick her up for 36 hours. He never left her. He nervously watched as her body was loaded and looked for her after the truck was gone. I was certain that he would grieve himself to death.

Cloud never took another girlfriend, but instead became tight with Prince, another mid-thirties TB. I spoke with Prince tonight as he stood alone by the gate.

I threw myself into physical work when I returned, raking six muck buckets of mess from alongside our drive. It helps.

Intellectually, I know that Cloud's life ended as well as it could have and that the end will always arrive. Reasoning does little for my heart. Cloud was never an affectionate horse, but his enduring spirit and revitalization captivated me. He was always the first to bang the gate as mealtime approached. I adored him from afar. Just Wednesday night, I attempted to put a fly mask on him. He took cookies from me, but as soon as he saw the rope, he began RUNNING around the pasture. I marveled at how easily and well he moved. Okay, no mask.

He never slowed down.

Arrival Day, November 9, 2007

Four Months Later

June 2008, Beginning to Amaze Me

With His Beloved Daisy

Spring Sheath Cleaning Hit Itchy Spots

Just Last Week
I don't want to end on a sad note and there has simply been inadequate blog activity. So, on a lighter note, I'll tell you about Angel.

She has required her bladder to be manually expressed since her abandonment. Often, this was not an easy task and I never felt as if we emptied her bladder completely. I was aware of a slightly unusual odor, which we hoped would clear up once she had a good dental. It did not. We tried a few prescription drugs, but there seemed to be little if any improvement.

A few weeks ago, we were bewildered by an awful odor in the house. I easily determined that the dog beds were getting soiled, but it took a little bit to realize that it was Angel. I put one of Izzy's diapers on her. Shortly thereafter, the diaper was filled with the most awful smelling bloody urine. She filled three diapers before we got her to Animal Medical Center in Auburn.

Dr. Brockman went above and beyond for the sweet girl. Angel had a raging infection in her bladder and we nearly lost her. She spent a week in the hospital and will be on antibiotics for the rest of her life. Angel's bladder is stretched and has lost some nerve function. A catheter is used to keep the bladder small while the new medication works to restore function. We were so grateful to bring her home with a catheter that we were to use to drain her bladder several times a day. Somehow, before we even left the parking lot, it was out. This particular catheter had a bubble on the end to keep it in place. She didn't make a sound as that pulled through. Crying, I took her back inside and Dr. Brockman put it back and assured me that there is so much scar tissue in her urethra that it isn't painful.

The catheter was made for humans and designed to last up to 90 days. This was so much easier than expressing her. Once home, we pinned the end of the catheter to a t-shirt and put a diaper on her to contain it, away from the other dogs. We tried to keep her quiet, secluding her, but she felt better than she had in a long time and wouldn't stop. Two days later, out again. Even after passing another bubble, urine would not pass when we tried to express her. This part baffles the vets, too.

This time, they added stitches to help keep it in place and used a shorter length. Even with a diaper, this lasted just about four days. The bubble was twice as big.

At this point, we are simply inserting a cather, draining her bladder, then removing it. I'm getting good at this and she is so incredibly patient. Through experimentation, I have learned that once the flow stops (and this is abrupt and solid), if I continue to apply light pressure to the plunger of the syringe as I slowly remove the catheter, I find one or two more 'pockets' of urine. Doesn't make sense to me, but...

This may possibly be our routine for the rest of Angel's life. I am cautiously hopeful for returned bladder function. Regardless, she seems to feel better than ever and it is comforting to know that her bladder is being fully emptied. The odor is gone.

All in all, this is very good progress. Angel has been through a lot and it is great to see her feeling really good.

So Patient and Good
I will end on a very high note, an example of what drives us.

Grace was picked up from a kill shelter near Houston, Texas on May 7. Her Petfinder page read:

"Dear, sweet Grace came to us from a kill shelter, where she was picked up as a stray. Not only is Grace blind and deaf, she has also been diagnosed with having cancer cells and what appears to be a prolapsed rectum. Grace also has a medium-sized tumor on her side, but due to her advanced age and compromised medical condition, she will not be a candidate for surgery. Instead, we will keep Grace as happy and comfortable as possible for as long as she is here on this earth. And shower her with love!"

The sweet girl also turned out to be heartworm positive.

As luck would have it, friend and Boston supporter Jana Whiteside was coming to California on business and offered to transport Grace. I was doubly excited as I was fortunate enough to meet Jana in 2005 when I traveled to Houston to pick up Ebenezer. On June 15, the ladies arrived at our door.

Dr. Rich Jackson of Animal Medical Center in Auburn said that he doubted Grace was as old as we thought and removed her polyps, gave her a good dental and removed some excess skin just above her tail. She recovered quickly. Then it was time to address her eyes.

Since she could not see, anyway, and the eyes were likely painful, we opted for enucleation to prevent further painful injury. Dr. Jackson was more than happy to handle the procedure, but we also got an e-mail from Dr. Lauren LaRue of UC Davis and Dr. Danielle (Paglia) Connor expressed interest, as well. Dr. Paglia was with Animal Eye Center in Rocklin, but was moving to Austin. She adores Boston Terriers and together we agreed that Grace's procedure would be the last thing she did before she left. Lucky Grace. Unfortunately, Grace had a reaction to the sutures and her eyes took a bit longer to heal.

Now, however, she is one fesity chick! She tries desparately to get the other dogs to engage her and sometimes Joy will. Grace seems to have a special affinity for Joshua and, increasingly, Paddington. Usually very reserved, I see Paddington beginning to open up to her. Paddy has also had both eyes removed.

She requires usually two serious rounds of "blanket monster" each day and you've got to make sure your hands are padded ~ she can be TOUGH! We adore her girlie bark. She climbs like a brave little monkey on the sectional and has the house and yard all laid out, coming and going as she pleases.

We're both, admittedly, wrapped and hope she stays for a good, long time. Here's a poor quality video of Amazing Grace.

Big Cloud left having known love, companionship, above average food and, incredible for his age, at the top of the pecking order. Grace is stepping into a renewed body with a sense of permanence and belonging. And so our fragile circle goes round and round (and somehow, Odie is still here.)

From Our Friend, Albert, in Colorado

2010-09-30T02:11:00.000-07:00

You may recall that on Sunday, August 29, ACFB received a very special visitor who literally drove from Denver to see this place for himself. Not knowing exactly which day he might arrive, chores were in full swing when Albert pulled up, slightly flustered because we had offered inconsistent directions which had him doubting he would find us. We hoped to enjoy dinner with Albert, so there was little time to slow down and show him around as the chore list is long. I feared that, having driven 1,300 miles, Albert might feel a little put out.

While visiting, he often said that he didn't know what to expect. Shortly after his return, I gathered the courage to ask him what he thought of his visit. I was deeply interested in his observations as it is difficult for me to have perspective on what has grown slowly over the past decade. It feels pretty natural to us, but I wondered what Albert made of this circus. His reply:

Dear Friends, Deanna and Woody,

How can I put into words what I experienced, first reading about you guys and the wonderful work you were doing in the USA Today article. Something came over me, as I never met people like yourselves, who had such amazing compassion for God's Creatures who cannot help themselves. Then that picture of Stevie, the blind, beautiful horse, just did it for me. I had to visit and see for myself, and I had to meet you. It was my way of saying thanks for doing what us mere mortals cannot, will not, or do not have the same compassion to do. The trip was cake compared to all the love I witnessed around me. I mean, doting on blind animals, cooking meals for 21 dogs, nurturing horses, dogs, pigs, cats, rabbits, birds, etc., and literally putting yourself last, as our 9pm dinner will attest to. I did not articulate a lot of this to you, because I was amazed at the whole personal experience.

Your sanctuary is not a "circus" ~ As Shoeless Joe Jackson asked Kevin Costner in the movie, 'Field Of Dreams' ~ “Is This Heaven? No, it is Penryn, California."

God Bless You,
Nu Yawk Albert

Once more, Albert, your sentiments have brought me to tears. I've counted myself lucky to have so many animals in my life, not babies spoiled from the start, but broken hearts and bodies that are such a joy to see reborn. They don't hold grudges and are happy with the simplest things. NEVER IN MY LIFE would I have imagined that someone would make such an effort to come see what we love. We think you're some kind of special yourself and we're so honored. I do hope you'll return next year.

This sentimentality makes me long for so many that we've lost. Brave souls who endured much, I wish I could share them all with you. Their stories are barely told as sharing is relatively new to us. I wish I could devote long days to capturing each of their spirits for you in writing ~ Glory, Winston, Magik, DeeDee, Ebbie, Spike, Tank, Ruth... They are what drives this. They are the only thing that makes sense. For now, here is an incomplete album that contains so much love and many tears.

Albert, I don't think you'll ever understand how much you've touched us. Thank you is inadequate.

With deep gratitude,
Deanna

So Long, Sophie ~ Deanna

2010-09-10T02:18:00.000-07:00

The sweetest old Suffolk Sheep passed away today on her own, but not until after the vet was on her way to help. I am not surprised and it isn't the first time that the call to the vet prompted either a recovery or a passing. I'm convinced that the animals wish to pass on their own terms and we try to allow them that dignity as often as possible. Dogs have died in my arms at the vet as the room is being prepared.

Odie, our 34 year old Tennessee Walking Horse is our most laughable case. He is OLD and many times he has appeared to be unable to rise after lying down. A horse's gut can only take so much down time. We get up to three people pushing and pulling, trying to assist him and sometimes it just doesn't happen. I can't tell you how many times I've told people "Odie's really getting close this time." We know the time will ultimately come, but for now we laugh. Twice I've called the vet to come administer "pink compassion" only to have him immediately rise. Once he had been down for nearly 24 hours and the second time, he laid in the pond with his nostrils just out of the water. All in his good time. I think he feins as he has realized his frailty scores him special priveledges, such as unmonitored time at the feed cans and free roam of the front yard. For those who have been around a while, you know he would sometimes come to the front door, as if asking to be let in. Now we tell him, "Odie, I'm going to call the vet!"

Without looking, I'd estimate that Woody and I have experienced close to 60 passings since Chance and Bliss called us to this work. It's been an interesting journey.

I lost my Father in 2003 at the age of 59 to cancer. It was the only time I had been present when a person passed and the feeling in the room immediately lifted. It was palpable and my Mom and brother felt it, as well. Surreal. It caused me to really contemplate death and do some reading, such as "On Death and Dying" by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. I came to understand that death is an important metamorphosis for our soul and that it can be quite beautiful. What a gift to be with Pop at that moment.

Euthanasia is such a unique and difficult issue. I've long held appreciation for the ability to administer such relief to a suffering animal friend, but now I see that it can often be a mere convenience. The dying process can be difficult to witness and we almost always utilize the talents of our animal communicator for insight. Only TWICE have animals asked or agreed to that end. They want to do it in their time, their way.

There are circumstances that call for intervention, of course, but it is such an individual and minute by minute decision. We are BLESSED to be seven minutes from a 24 hour clinic. Another reason our location is so important to us.

The insight from Sophie Wednesday afternoon via Jane St. Croix was that she was FIGHTING to stay here. We honored her. We got her up, fed her, spent time with her. At midnight last night, I fed Sophie a banana and grapes and she literally drank from a 16 oz water bottle, using her lips and tongue to manipulate the water flow. Amazing. But I knew she wasn't getting up again.

The seizures are a clear marker for me. Maybe its a convenience to prevent me from bearing witness, but that's my bottom line. There are people in our circle committed to hospice work who hold firmly that there is no such thing as a humane euthanasia as it relates to the larger picture for the being, but I disagree.

Team Bliss, as I like to refer to us, doesn't always agree about details (imagine that!), and another case, Windsong, has tested my beliefs. Windsong is a mare in her late teens who has inoperable cancer growing in her left eye. It was removed by UC Davis in 2008 and came back mid-2009. For a while, it was an ugly pink mass protruding and Rachel and I argued to call the vet on several occasions. But lo and behold, it somehow changed directions and is completely contained behind her lid. Her eye waters and itches, but doesn't appear painful by the head rubs I get. What's more is that her body condition and attitude are excellent. Jane's insights reveal that it does take energy to maintain and that she is sometimes tired, but it doesn't show. She has friends in the herd that she clearly adores. And she enjoys being adored by Atlas, just recently gelded. Obviously, this isn't indefinite, but her quality of life for the time is clearly good. I'm glad we didn't make the call.

So Sophie's choice to pass in the 30 minutes between the call and the vet's arrival was not surprising at all (if we need help sooner, we go to the clinic as opposed to a ranch call). I tried to coach Sophie last night that it was okay to let go of her failing body. Why did she want to stay? She'd already lost her two lifelong pasture mates, Abby and Nina. That's not mine to answer and Sophie may not have been able to stay as she desired, but Sophie certainly made a point about the way she chose to go.

September Newsletter Available

2010-09-07T04:12:00.001-07:00

The September newsletter, available here, includes a short introduction to Sam, upon which I'd like to expand.

Sam-I-Am is a ten year old Boston Terrier who belonged to a woman who once had six at one time and adored them all. She lost three over time, leaving Sam and his biological parents. Sam's guardian was diagnosed with cancer in early June and died in late June. Somehow, Sam and his folks ended up in the drop box at the Martinez shelter until Linda from Wonder Dog Rescue saved them. Sam's parents were adopted right away, but Sam is a special boy.

Sammy was born with defective plumbing. All of the basic parts are there, but they're not properly connected and all waste is produced through one hole. I'll risk being graphic to give you an understanding: Today as Sam urinated after holding it for a while, the urine shot out straight behind him.

Because he is prone to accidents, I've begun diapering him like Izzy, but it makes him completely freeze! He gets so forlorn... but I trust that, in time, he'll figure it out and fly around the house like his younger sister. I'm convinced that the diaper is the reason he held it so long! I've also discovered that pull-ups are great! Not having children, diaper shopping is new to me and I'm learning. They are a bit more expensive, but the stretchy waistbands means not cutting into their legs while trying to keep the waist tight enough.

A 'Dora the Explorer' Diaper Isn't the Coolest Outfit for a Guy
Sad Sam
Thankfully, Sam is devoted to his new Mother, (me), so any time I'm outside, he follows right along, blissfully diaper-free. When he is happy, Sam sometimes smiles. Today, a photographer came to shoot photos for a story that will run in Women's World the first week of November, so we spent some time taking pictures with the animals in the back pasture. Sam soon began playfully pouncing on his shadow like a kitten (and I got no photos!) He also loves to dig and with the issues he's got, we'll let him. :o)

Sam can be a bit cranky with strangers, especially men, and we're working on this. A guy like Sam doesn't have many roommate options, so we'll work hard to address his personality issues.

We did manage to get some blue 'Diego' diapers today, so at least Sam won't be forced to wear pink.

When you come to visit, please give Sammy his space for a while and assure him his outfit is stylish. He might even smile.

~ Deanna

A Special Visit ~ Deanna

2010-09-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

On June 2, the USA Today article was published and cards, letters and e-mail began to pour in. One of the first people that I corresponded with was New Yawk Albert, now in living near Denver, Colorado. I shared a photo of Stevie with him and Albert was intrigued. This past Sunday afternoon, Albert drove up Willow Brook Lane, having followed a persistent calling to see our special blind horse. Yes, Albert drove over 1,300 miles to meet Stevie the Wonder Horse. We shared dinner that night, had a fantastic visit, Albert stayed here at the ranch, took photos in the morning then left for St. Louis. I've learned that one never knows what lies around the corner and I am so happy to have another good friend in Denver. Thank you, Albert. We will never forget our time with you.

On Tuesday, after our monthly visit with Easter Seals, we began assembling sponsorship packages. This is quite a process! Woody and I were assisted by Volunteers Extraordinaire Kathy Leon and Jordan Bartley and we worked for hours. You'll notice a key on your mailing label - DHPM = Dogs, Horses, Pals and Mates; we each took a category, then moved to combinations. It wasn't until Wednesday that we finished applying postage and delivered to the post office - August mailers went out on September 1.

Well, most ~ I'm working on loose ends, correcting addresses and clarifying points. I think we have a good system devised now and a custom database is in the works, donated by Chris Hans and Steve Cooper of OmniCreek.

We learned that using a bulk mail permit no longer entails sorted mail by the zip code, so we will use that next month, reducing costs greatly. Many people have requested no updates or e-mail updates only, but we enjoy preparing the packages and continue to cut costs. We like to imagine Manny's picture on refrigerators across America!

I will close with photos from ESHTR. Gettin' better every day, you guys! We love you.

Kathy's Big Boston

2010-09-02T10:52:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, August 31st 2010 Easter Seals Superior California HTR Program, took our monthly trip to A Chance For Bliss. The ride was pleasant with everybody singing along with the radio, except me I was working on a puzzle again. Woody, Deanna and Rachel greeted us. We were in a hurry to go to work, so Rachel right away assigned tasks and chores for everyone. Kim, our resident horse whisperer, got to work brushing horses. Anthony and John got busy bathing dogs, they must have bathed at least five dogs while we were there. Jasmine even helped by drying dogs, but I think she got wetter than the dogs she was trying to dry. Marcellos ground flax seed while Jim cleaned saddles. Ron, Rik, and Vince were manure valets, and I got to entertain the Boston’s. While I was busy doing my job I had the pleasure of meeting Kathy, she is the proud owner of the biggest Boston Terrier I have ever seen. But you know I think the dog liked me, because he licked me flat on my nose. But you know why I really liked Kathy? She said that she actually reads these blogs; I thought my relatives were the only ones who read them. So I want to say hi Kathy and thank you for reading the blogs. Remember animals are such agreeable friends, they ask no questions, and they pass no criticism.
Hector

Mmmmm Cupcakes

2010-09-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

On Friday August 27th HTR received a surprise visit from Rachel and Deanna from A Chance For Bliss. The visit was to commemorate and celebrate two years of volunteering by HTR at A Chance For Bliss. Not only does HTR have a volunteer placement at A Chance For Bliss, but HTR holds a Holiday Shoppe every year with all the proceeds going to A Chance For Bliss.
Deanna and Rachel presented HTR with a complimentary book that documents a small part of the volunteer work that HTR does. The book shows Marcellos raking in the corral, it also shows John bathing a dog and brushing a horse. We also see Dan washing a pig. We get to see Heather brush a horse and steer, yet still find the time to play with a bunny. Anthony brushes a horse and helps Bob clean a saddle. Steven and Al brush horses while Rik kisses a dog. Tom, Les and Jim show smiles as they pose with the dogs. But the best pages are the ones dedicated to our dearly departed friend Bob, we miss him so much. All I know is not a day goes by that we do not think of his smiling and cheery face. Bob was always ready to help; we love and miss him daily.
Get this, the biggest and best surprise, Deanna and Rachel brought a huge decadent assortment of cupcakes. I picked peanut-butter and jelly flavored cupcake. Remember, Charles Darwin said, and I quote, “The love of all creatures is the most noble attribute of man.”

Hector

Remembering Bug ~ by Deanna

2010-08-25T01:07:00.000-07:00

I lost a very good friend today. Oh, I know she is an angel now and in a better place, that my sleep will be less disturbed and others will come into the fold, but this girl will be missed like few others.

There's not much to report ~ Bug was fifteen and lived a relatively quiet life. Rachel likened it to a cruise ship, these past two years. That made me smile. Bug would waller around in the sun on the lawn, bark dramatically when she felt a need and rest assured that someone would be right there to attend to her. She got more cookies and ice cream than most. She had her Dad in her life for special weekends away. Okay, there was sometimes more drama in that bark than necessary, indicative of her Princess sensibilities. But that was just Bug. I wouldn't change a thing about her.

She didn't rest very quietly last night. I couldn't figure out why she was restless, she just was. Little growls under her breath. The seizures started around 8:00am. She had my full attention until she left.

Peace be with my angel Bug and Jon Findley, too.

I miss this blogging. Not about passings, but those do tend to call me to the keyboard.

I wish I could concisely synopsize all of the changes since the USA today article was published, but somedays I can't even keep track. The majority of my time revolves around the sponsorship program which was three months new when the article brought the attention we so desperately needed to survive. I have always adored Excel, but honestly, this is a big job for that program. It looks so simple at first, but there are so many nuances. Fifteen possible combinations of categories, not to mention tracking who pays annually versus monthly, via PayPal or by check, who is drawn to a special individual or wants their updates via e-mail as opposed to snail mail. As members of our local Chamber of Commerce, we have access to a bulk mail permit, but that brings another level of complication, sorting by zip codes. We're getting there. All in time. I just want to make sure you're getting what you've asked for. Sometimes I'm in doubt! :o)

Thankfully, our faithful Kathy Leon has amazing friends who have stepped up to build a custom database to manage our needs and growth. This is beyond comprehension for me right now and I am beside myself with excitement. We're getting ready to mail out our August sponsor letters. We're later than we had hoped to be, but what can you do?

For those who follow us on Facebook, our niece Jordan will be here Friday to help assemble packages. She didn't miss a month, even having endured 14+ hours of brain surgery to remedy her epilepsy. I should blog, then post to FB, I know, but it is a habit I'm reforming.

We've also had a few improvements happening around the ranch. The local Boy Scout Troop raised the money and then built a three-sided run in shelter for the horses. That was a dream come true. It is so comforting to see.

A long-lost friend (30 years ~ thank you, Facebook!) has reappeared into our lives and is handy as all get out. Ken Noel has been helping with drainage issues in the back yard, amid assorted other small jobs, and has also built us a proper wash-rack, outfitted for our friends from Easter Seals and AIM, as well. HEAVEN! I am pinching myself.

I'll be in the November issue of Women's World Magazine, a publication that called the day the USA Today article hit. I'm grateful for the time between. Database, database, database.

I love sharing the animals with you. In fact, there is a lovely ten year old BT stepping into the opening that Buggy left. But he deserves his own blog. He's something special. Sam I Am. I like to call him Special Sam or Monkey Butt Sam... you'll see why soon.

Our network drive is down so I'll skip the pictures for tonight. It is ALWAYS something. But I'm not complaining. Thank you for your support in helping us to do what we do.

I'm off to sleep. Missing Bugaboo. Sweet dreams, old girl. Sweet dreams to all of you, too.

AB 1980 ~ Please Act

2010-08-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

A bit redundant, perhaps (blog, newsletter and Facebook), but we're passionate about this matter! Please read.

Thank you,
Deanna

Jasmine Drives!

2010-07-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, May, 25 2010 Easter Seals Superior California HTR program took our monthly excursion to the animal sanctuary. Anthony drove the bus and Jasmine rode shotgun, as an added treat Devora our speech language pathologist went along for the ride. The trip was quiet I didn’t get to annoy anybody ‘cause I was working on a Sudoku puzzle. When we arrived at the sanctuary Rachel was there to greet us we were quite happy because we hadn’t seen her in a long time. We got to do our normal chores like bathe the dogs, brush the horses, and grind flax seed. But then we got to do my favorite play with the dogs. We got to eat our picnic lunch, then we went outside to visit Charlotte the pot-bellied pig. On the way back to Easter Seals, get this Jasmine drove the bus everybody was quite nervous, because we didn’t think she could drive so well. Remember don’t pre-judge us by our intellectual challenges, the dogs don’t see phd’s, mba’s ged’s, or any part of the alphabet. We may not be as smart as the next guy, but no one likes the next guy who is a legend in his own mind. We may not understand quantum mechanics or rocket science, but what we know is love is omnipotent.

Hector
Easter Seals Superior California
Help To Recovery Program

Chip comes home-- By Rachel

2010-06-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

There has been so much activity, so much growth, and so many positive new people coming into our lives over the past few weeks, that sometimes life begins to feel a bit surreal. One of the animals' biggest gifts however is that they demonstrate how to stay grounded and in the moment. Ultimately the animals are the beginning, middle, and end to all of this wonderful craziness, and there is big comfort in knowing that they are the rock in the middle of the hurricane.

The best thing that happened this weekend at horse expo, which was jam packed with networking and sharing our mission, was that we found Chip. He is a darling 14 year old Sheltie, who had been in a very nice foster home through Sheltie rescue for about 6 months, but showed little hope of being adopted due to his age. His wonderful foster mom described him as being a "pistol", and he has certainly lived up to his reputation since coming home last night. He is already bonding with Joy, our young deaf Boston Terrier, and seems to be making himself right at home. Congratulations Chip, on your new digs. We love you already, and look forward to sharing your story as it unfolds.....

Images provided by Ann Ranlett-- She and her friend Sandy graciously brought Chip home from the Horse Expo so he could ride in the air conditioning, and then waited with him until Woody was ready to introduce him into the rest of the pack.

Last call for Expo...-- by Rachel

2010-06-13T08:32:00.001-07:00

For those of you who have not made it down to the Cal Expo grounds for the annual Horse Expo, you have today from 10-5 to come and see all the great clinicians, demonstrations, and shopping..... Make some time today to come visit us at our booth! It has been a great weekend so far, we have had the chance to visit with old friends and make new, and we have been able to raise some awareness for our cause. We will see you there.... right?

On a Roll for June-- By Rachel

2010-06-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a rollercoaster since USA Today hit. There have been so many new supporters, so many kind emails to return, so touching stories! If you have sent us an email, we thank you for your patience, as we are dedicated to returning each one personally. Hang in there as we filter through the hundreds of communications we have received over the last six days.

This promises to be a big month for other reasons as well..... On Friday June 11, Saturday June 12, and Sunday June 13, we will be hosting a booth at the Western States Horse Expo, at Cal Expo center, in the new dog pavilion. Last year 70,000 attended this fantastic annual event, so we have high hopes of meeting lots of new people and spreading the news of our work. If you have a chance, please come by our booth and say hello!

Meanwhile, back in real life, the animals keep us happy and busy. Homer, our superstar pig, had his first lesson to learn some tricks and to walk on a leash, so he can someday come with us for public appearances. We found a wonderful lady who only lives a short few minutes away who was willing to come out and teach us her extremely gentle and kind "pig whispering" methods. Homer, in true celebrity style did not make an appearance for the first 30 minutes we were looking for him to start this session, but eventually wandered out from the neighbor's barn to investigate. He seemed to really like Diane, who gave him treats, got him coming to his name, and got him to flop on his side for a belly pet. She was very impressed at Homer's good nature, despite his lack of training before maturity and his rough beginnings. We really hope that we can further add to Homer's (already pretty darned high) quality of life by giving him some additional stimulation. He is really "some pig"!

We are also getting a couple of new additions to the group--an elderly Boston Terrier, Grace, who is coming to us for hospice care, and an elderly Paso Fino gelding. I will wait to let Dee and Woody take some photos to give them a proper introduction, but there is a preview.

For Our New USA Today Friends ~ by Deanna

2010-06-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

We are sincerely grateful for your interest in our Sanctuary. We feel privileged to serve these beings as there is immense gratification in seeing a broken heart/spirit/body reborn.

Due to space constraints, the article failed to mention our partnership with the Animal Acupressure Training Academy, which has played a significant role in increasing the longevity and overall well-being of our residents. Providing workshops and certification at the sanctuary affords a real-world, clinical setting with animals that need healing hands and hearts. This unique partnership of the Academy and the Sanctuary offers an unparalled learning experience based in service to animals.

In addition to remarkable neighbors, we consider ourselves beyond fortunate to have an extremely talented and dedicated team, without such A Chance for Bliss simply would not be.

Rachel Chao has been with us since 2007 and brings a lifetime of equine husbandry combined with avid pursuit of the latest developments in the most natural and balanced modalities.

Lydia Patubo came to us in early 2009 with strong marketing background and natural public relations talent, combined with a resolute desire to serve the underserved animals.

Dr. Tom Wilson also joined us in early 2009, a Reiki Master with multiple certifications in holistic energy-healing modalities for humans and animals alike, complimented by a calm yet vital presence that serves to engage students in the teachings.

Judy Bugas came to us through a series of uncanny engagements and mutual acquaintances with an easily evident alignment of core philosophies coupled with a fundamental drive to engage in meaningful work.

There are many more dedicated friends, so your support means much to many. We built our Field of Dreams and stand in awe as superstars arrive to fill the field. This is a true team.

Days that strengthen my faith in the goodness of humanity... --By Rachel

2010-06-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

There are little miracles all day every day that we miss when we are preoccupied with the minutia of our lives and other matters of ego. On very special occasions we are lucky to experience moments where struggle and strife seems like a drop in the bucket, and the interconnectedness of life is both beautiful and overwhelming.

Today is one of those days.

USA Today, after a month of preparation(including sending photographer Justin Kase Conder who took over 1200 photos over a period of seven hours) released a story about A Chance for Bliss on the front page of the life section today. The electronic version of the story can be viewed at: http://bit.ly/a3nc5d

It is not even noon, and the response has been overwhelming. Even in writing these few paragraphs I have been (happily!) interrupted by a dozen emails forwarded by Dee. They are from people who want to become sponsors, make a one time donation, or just express their gratitute for the amazing and selfless work that Dee and Woody do. I am becoming emotionally overwhelmed at the love and kindness that is pouring forth from all over the country in response to the article. I can only imagine the mental state Dee and Woody and the rest of the team are in right now.

Congratulations Dee and Woody. I can think of no one who deserves this recognition and support more than you do. In any small way I have been able to help serve your cause, I can guarantee you that the personal benefit to me has come back a thousand fold. Although you both tend to be humble to a fault, I hope you take a moment to breathe it in and take a bow for the extraordinary effect your vision and sweat equity has had on hundreds of lives, two and four legged. I met the Bartleys before the economic recession began, when they were comfortably self funding all of their rescue work, in addition to donating 25% of their before tax income to other charities (a fact that you will almost never hear them mention). I thought I knew they were extraordinary people then. After having witnessed their struggle through intesely stressful and meager times, when situations turned from bad to worse regularly, and there was not much hope to be found, I realized that I had only seen a fraction of what the Bartleys were capable of. When mere mortals would have rolled over and died, the Bartleys renewed and intensified their dedication to serve as many animals and people at the highest level possible. They have gladly sacrificed every wordly possession they have, not to mention untold hours and emotional reserves, in pursuit of their vision. Even in the darkest times their mantra has been one of abundance and faith that it really does seem darkest before the dawn. Being a passenger along for this ride has taught me so much about the power of intention, dedication, attitude and perserverance. I remain honored and humbled to be a part of Team Bliss, and can't wait to see what the future holds for our sanctuary family.

And to those of you in the community who have sent expressions of your love and support for the Bartleys and their amazing sanctuary, please know that your kind words and donations mean more to us than I can even begin to convey. I cannot express the pleasure I feel in being one among the many of you who are coming forward today in response to the USA Today article to express your belief in the sanctuary's mission: To promote the inherent Truth of the worth of all beings.

Overwhelmed by gratitude,

Rachel

A Refreshed Chance at $50,000 ~ by Deanna

2010-06-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

I must honestly admit that I was not at all excited about a third month of struggling with Pepsi. I use the word struggle because the system became clogged with comments as contenders became increasingly creative in their desire to fund a dream.

If you’ve followed this journey with us at all, you know we ended April at 79 and were then surprised to roll over to May. Personally, I was not eager to push our supporters to spend more of their time on this as it seemed an insurmountable challenge. If we had landed in the top 20, certainly, but near 80? Then sometime near the end of the first week of May, our position began to consistently improve and our optimism was sparked.

Our regular second Saturday Open House brought a visitor who claimed responsibility for the shift. She’d devised a plan and began a few days before, creating many accounts to vote, vote, vote. She asked for volunteers and I offered a list to call from, but that I could not devote time to her plan. Obviously, it was working and without any sort of restraint on Pepsi’s part, this sort of idea seemed inevitable and was beginning to spread quickly. She signed up as A CHANCE FOR BLISS which concerned our board. What controls did we have? Strategic alliances were formed ~ “We’ll vote for you if you’ll vote for us.” I’m good with that concept, but this, too, quickly appeared to explode to the point that Pepsi added “Keep It Civil” at the comment box. I moved from being excited to view the comments from supporters to fearful to look at our page as we eclipsed 3000 comments, most saying things like “XYZ sending 200 votes your way!” Who’s to say… there was no way to know anything. Pepsi gives us absolutely no insight at all.

On the 17th, I posted my gratitude on Facebook. I received a scathing e-mail from our new friend, accusing me of becoming complacent, claiming that she was responsible for 95% of the votes that were happening for us between her alliances and personal commitment. Apparently, because I had been unable to “scrounge up any volunteers” to help her, she began spending $200 daily on hired voters with four computers in action at all times, she was sleeping only 3-4 hours a night, and neglecting her family. She suggested that Woody and I reduce our sleep to help her. I will stop there and trust that you realize this was all self-imposed and I would certainly not encourage this behavior from anyone.

The voting process began to slow from the excess activity and I began Googling, expecting to find some talk about what was happening. I was surprised to find very little, just one article about a contestant crying foul over potential cheating, aside from complaints about submission difficulties. The thought of rolling into a third month with this sort of uncontrolled manipulation made me sick ~ it is still early in the year and I envisioned servers crashing, but mostly I thought about the honest, sincere and dedicated friends who would become frustrated by their inability to simply vote.

Today’s e-mail from Pepsi was (pun intended) refreshing:

“Your idea "Support the rescue of senior animals at A Chance for Bliss sanctuary." was not voted to receive a $50,000 grant. However, you finished among the Top 100 in your grant tier.

Since you came so close, we're giving your idea another chance by automatically entering it into the next Submission Period. To be fair to everyone, the vote counter has been set to zero. Voting for the next cycle is now open. Start spreading the news to your friends & family and tell them to vote. There's no time to lose, voting ends June 30th, 2010.

IMPORTANT RULE UPDATE: Please note that as of June 1, 2010 rules for the Pepsi Refresh Project have been updated to expressly prohibit proxy voting. To ensure a fair, accurate count of votes, the site is monitored by an outside company. Any idea that uses proxy voting, which includes but is not limited to creating multiple or dummy accounts and voting on behalf of other users, may be disqualified.”

So here we are and I have mixed feelings. On this first day of the third month, we’re in the mid-twenties. I completely understand if you never want to see the name Pepsi and A Chance for Bliss in the same sentence again and so you won’t. I’ll be voting but I am incredibly grateful that no one else need try to kill themselves doing so. Reading the last line above after our recent experience, I realize that we have no control and could easily be disqualified by the actions of another completely unknown to us.

I leave it to the Universe. Trust me when I say that $50,000 would mean a great deal to our work, but it isn’t worth pushing and scheming and upset. Our kids have good karma. We will either prevail on the honest intention of our support team or not. I refuse to pass judgment over ideas that succeeded while ours did not. I will personally cast votes for causes I feel inclined to, regardless of who pledged support to us. I know very little about the volunteer who formed many of our alliances, but I am saddened to think what might motivate such extreme behavior. I hope that any competing Cause feeling slighted by us might understand and I pray that they do not receive such “help.”

My Dad loved Pepsi, by the way.

I apologize that I will leave this blog without touching on other topics, as there has been a great deal happening here, as always. Others might not agree, but I always feel compelled to speak my truth with our friends. Many have spent a great deal of effort on this and the least I can do is respond from the heart.

Bug is barking… gotta run!

"Oh, look! A Bunnny!"
(i.e, so much for signing off, something just popped up)

I am happy to see that I'm not the only one who can't seem to comment in a timely manner; Rick Lamb just posted about Light Hands Horsemanship just minutes ago. And he's right ~ GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY!!!

The Horse Show Blog

Lectures, stories, and shtick-- By Rachel

2010-05-23T07:05:00.000-07:00

Greetings all, from beautiful Santa Ynez, where Dee and I are getting ready for the third and final day of Light Hands Horsemanship. It has been an amazing time and I will give you a synopsis of what has happened Friday and Saturday so far, even though there are so many details worthy of mention, I can't really do it justice.

On Friday Rick Lamb kicked off by listing all the countries of origin of the participants. This conference gathered people from France, Brazil, Argentina, Poland, Hungary,and Canada. Pretty amazing. Dr. Robert Miller, DVM, for whom I have the ultimate respect, and who may be the only vet who has ever treated a hummingbird and a whale in the same day, gave a great talk about the reasons why the horse is the most unique in the animal kingdom, of any domestic or wild creature. He also made a compelling argument about how the horse is the singular factor which allowed Asia and Europe to develop past the stone age, and is the biggest influence in the societal development of man.

Eitan Beth Halachmy did a hysterically satirical presentation, examining the propensity of every corporatized horse "guru" to sell their own equipment (especially sticks) for sometimes obscene amounts of money, and insist to their followers that only their stick can work properly. Eitan brought out his own back of "shticks", and wove those into an informative presentation about examining the footfall and self carriage of a horse from the ground.

We were also treated to a colt start by Richard Winters (had never seen him live in person, but was impressed by his refusal to hurry the horse), and riding demonstrations by John Ensign and Lester Buckley (two of the consistently finest horsemen that I have now had the pleasure of learning from for two years in a row).

The exciting announcement was made that the FEI was now including a Western Dressage division. For those who do not know much about horses or horse showing, you may not understand my excitement. I beleive that this signals the biggest turn of the tide for the condition and standard of horsemanship in the show ring in a positive way in at the very least my lifetime. Jack Brainard, who will be inducted into the Reining Horse Hall of Fame this year, and has been around for close to 90 years, echoed this sentiment.

The day ended with an amazing screening of the trailer for a documentary which evolved into a book on the history of the Hollywood horse.

Saturday was more of the amazing same, but with the addition of a talk from Jack B., my hero, with the assistance of Jewels Adams on her gorgeous Azteca stallion. Meals both days have been great, and I would be lying if I said I had not been indulging a bit in desert. The winds have been high, which has created some problems for us in our booth, though that hasn't stopped the most dedicated animal lovers from coming by and showing their support for animal rescue. The day ended with a panel (Jack and Bob Miller being my favorites) of cowboy story tellers. If you ever meet Jack in person, don't leave him until he tells you the generator story.

My snooze has now gone off about 14 times, and I had probably better make an excuse to get out of bed. One more half day and then we come back to reality, just a five and a half hour drive away. Fortunately for us, we will have some happy critters waiting to ease our transition back to the real world from fantasy land.

Sleep is good, but horses are better-- by Rachel

2010-05-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Dee and I are in beautiful Santa Ynez, getting ready for the first full day of the Light Hands Horsemanship conference! We had planned to drive down Wednesday evening at around 7 in order to set up our booth Thursday,but had some technical difficulties. Instead, we ended up leaving at around 1:30 AM, and arriving in Santa Ynez at 7 in the morning. We checked into the hotel, took an hour nap, and then got up to go set up the booth.

Debbie Beth-Halachmy, who runs this fancy shindig, and whose husband is a featured clinician, was so sweet to us when we got there, along with the rest of the staff. We got a booth in a prime spot, right near the entrance to the eating area. We got our stuff set up by about 11:30, and then headed into town to find some tent stakes for the pop-up. The Ace Hardware there is about the cutest store I have ever seen, and the people were exceptionally friendly and helpful. We went next door to the Dos Carlitos Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar for lunch (didn't use the latter service, I'm afraid). It was a sensory experience. GREAT food, really good salsa, nice dining room, and even biodegradable take away boxes.

We made it back in time to pound in the tent stakes before the weather turned from serene to high winds. I spent about an hour chasing things down and zip tying them to the pop up frame. If it wasn't zip tied, or laid flat and weighing in at over 8 pounds, it wasn't sticking around long. Our neighbor's pop up frame literally buckled under the wind. Our neighbors by the way were all fascinating, and I will write a little about one each day. The guy with the bad pop up luck is a geologist/paleontologist turned self taught award winning jewlery maker. He had some exquisite pieces, and regaled us with stories of how he found one of the very few Tyranosaurus Rex fossils. I learned yesterday that the triceratops has the thickest skull of any animal in history.

The conference did not officially start yesterday, but Mr. Art Perry, the owner of the fabulous Intrepid Farms that hosts this conference each year opened the farm to visitors who wanted to take a tour of the Farm's museum. We talked to quite a few people at our booth, sold some t-shirts and raffle tickets, got a few donations, and really felt the love for our cause and animals. The day ended perfectly with Rick Lamb, of The Horse Show, giving a talk about the Seven Key Qualities of a Horseman. As Dee put it, the essence of the talk is that the horse is your mirror, and you create your own reality.

We turned in early, completely sleep deprived, not speaking in complete sentences, looking a little ragged, but pumped for the start of the conference on Friday. It is not Friday morning, and the cell alarm just went off. I am going to go shower while Dee caps off her first night of sleep uninterrupted by dogs in a year with a 15 minute snooze button. Today should be less windy, and now that we are awake, we will start to take some pictures of this amazing place.

Thoughts of peace and love to our friend Bob and his family

2010-05-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

We have just received the news that long time sanctuary volunteer, supporter, and friend Bob Walter passed away peacefully in his home this weekend.

Bob was and remains well loved by all at the Sanctuary. He began volunteering here nearly two years ago, and his quiet cheerful spirit was appreciated by all, two and four legged. He particularly bonded with the horses. Tank, our giant white draft horse, who passed in February 2009, had a special bond with Bob. Although sometimes Tank's gigantic size could get him into trouble, Bob was always quick to defend him-- "He is a good horse. He didn't mean it". We used to love to watch Bob groom Tank, taking such pride in his work, fearlessly brushing, hugging, and leading around his 2000 pound friend. When I told Bob that Tank had passed, he simply responded with a sad smile "He was a good boy, and now he is in a better place".

Prince, was another favorite of Bob's. This Thoroughbred used to love to make Bob laugh by making faces when Bob would scratch his itchy spot. Even when Prince first came to the sanctuary and had not the healthy body and coat he does now, Bob loved him. They were two gentle old souls with occasionally quirky senses of humor enjoying each other's company.

Although Bob was quiet, his smile and kindness always encouraged us to strike up conversations with him, to get a glimpse of his inner workings. I will always remember Bob as a person who stuck up for others, who had surprising and sometimes hilarious insights about the human condition, and who approached all with a spirit of willing kindness.

Bob, we grieve along with your family for how much we will miss you, and with tears free flowing, wish you all the happiness and beauty wherever your spirit now calls home.

He Loses His Grill

2010-05-13T14:20:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, April 27th , 2010 Easter Seals Superior California Help To Recovery Program, went on our monthly trip to the animal sanctuary. It was a rainy and gloomy day, with some bad omens. Neither Anthony or Jasmine could unlock the lift-door on the bus. But neither, rain or locked doors could curb our enthusiasm to visit A Chance For Bliss. Once we got going it was a fun ride, with everyone laughing and joking. When we got to the sanctuary we got to work inside because of the rain. We got to bathe dogs, grind flax-seed, and clean saddles. Of course we got to play with the dogs! Deanna told me that A Chance For Bliss might make a calendar next year, we will see I hope so. While we had our lunch, the funniest thing, happened. I was eating a sandwich, when I heard a loud crunch. What was it you ask? I not only broke a tooth, but I swallowed it as well. I had so much fun, mugging for everybody. You see, I wear dentures, so I did not feel a thing, all I could think there is a gap in my grill.
Remember take a tip from the dogs. Do not pre-judge us by our appearance, beauty, or lack there-of. None of the doggies noticed I was missing my front tooth. So, do not judge a book by its cover, but by its content. Hector Easter Seals Superior California Help To Recovery Program

Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend...

2010-05-12T15:12:00.000-07:00

Inside of a dog it is very very dark.-- Groucho Marx

Just a thought to keep you entertained while you and all of your friends go to www.refresheverything.com/achanceforbliss and vote under each and every one of your email addresses. --Rachel

With Love and Thanks

2010-05-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about the path I have walked since meeting Dee and Woody in January of 2009. Little did I know that I would be writing to you today as their Director of Marketing for A Chance for Bliss. I am pleased and honored to be a part of this incredible organization.

If you have been to the Sanctuary, you know you have stepped into a very special place. A wonderful feeling comes over you that goes right to your heart and soul. My friend Alison summed it up perfectly: "God is everywhere there."

I had never heard of a place that takes in animals and cares for them to the end of their days. As a hospice volunteer for Sutter Roseville Medical Center, this novel concept for animals attracted me. From the first time I stepped into Dee & Woody’s home, I was hooked. Inside, there were dogs everywhere! Outside were horses and barn cats, geese, ducks, goats, sheep and potbelly pigs. This city girl was enthralled to be surrounded by so many of God’s creatures. I’m here to stay!

There is much to do to keep a non-profit afloat these days. The show must go on ... all the time. We survive on less than a shoestring budget and rely heavily on the goodness of others. That goodness is coming from all directions, and we are so grateful for the incredible connections we have made. Who'd have thought we would have a Fashion Show by Halo Salon & Day Spa as a fundraiser! (see our home page for details).

Then, there’s our official Spokespig. Who’d have thought Homer would be the most popular pig on Facebook! Mr. Le Porc will be giving you a 'pigs-eye' view of life here at the Sanctuary from his unique perspective. So, stay tuned!

Know that each one of you has made an incredible difference in the quality of care of our animals. Your continued kindness and support mean so much to us. We keep asking, and you keep giving. A thousand thanks and blessings to you all.

Is This Heaven?

2010-05-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

“Is this heaven?” “No, it’s Iowa.”

In the movie “Field of Dreams” when Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella heard “The Voice”, he started doing some crazy things: mowed down his cornfield to build a baseball park, took off on an odd and enlightening road trip, met and befriended people from the past. To many it all seemed just nuts. But, supported by his wise and spunky wife, Annie, Ray continued to heed “The Voice”, and events unfolded in a way (a good way), that they could never have imagined.

Today, here at The Ranch, as I scooped up doggie poop in the backyard, happily humming and putting new, animal-inspired lyrics to old familiar tunes in my head (Woody and I have this in common), I thought about Ray and smiled.

See, when I started to really listen to my “voice”, life as I had known it for the last 20 years, came to a rather abrupt end. My job, marriage, close-knit family, beautiful house, good credit, beloved pets…all were gone baby, gone. And now, a few years later, here I am at A Chance for Bliss, spending time in the company of some of the finest people I know, caring for all kinds of wondrous animals, and happily humming while scooping dog poop! Who knew?

Hmmmm. A song lyric comes to mind: “…who could know that a man would come who would change the shape of my dreams? Helpless now I stand with him, watching older dreams grow dim…” Quick! Name that musical! ANYWAY. Take out “a man” and “him”, insert “The Voice”. And yes, my dreams are changing shape---morhping into dreams that are closer to my heart’s true desires. Yay!

When Woody and Deanna adopted Chance and Bliss, they had no idea that an animal sanctuary was in their future. (I bet “The Voice” knew) (I’m just sayin’…) But now they marvel at the “right-ness” of it all. And though there are days here at The Ranch when we wonder how we’re gonna make it through another month, mostly we know that, as with Ray and his field of dreams, all kinds of folks are drawn to this place and are inspired to contribute their time, talent and treasure. And we are thrilled, humbled, and so very grateful.

“…oh people will come, Ray. People will most definitely come…”

A Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary. Is this heaven? Yes. I believe it is.

Bernie: The Old Man of the Pack

2010-05-07T20:12:00.001-07:00

Last weekend at A Chance for Bliss, the Animal Acupressure Training Academy held a class on the Five Elements in our Acupressure for Animals 100 Hour Certification Program. The Five Elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) give us a way to assess the condition of an animal, as well as clues to what we can do to address the condition. So we’re looking for signs, clues to direct us. For example, if there’s not much energy evident in an animal, we call it a yin condition—that is, there is an apparent deficiency versus a congestion or accumulation. One of the many ways we assess what organs are affected is by the sound of the voice. When the liver energy is affected, it can manifest as a shouting voice in a human, and kind of an aggressive, hostile bark in a dog. If the Kidneys or Bladder energy are affected, the sound is a kind of groaning voice. Lung and Large Intestine energy is a crying voice.

Enter Bernie, our oldest member of the pack of 20 dogs who live together at A Chance for Bliss. Bernie is known for his almost incessant moaning-howling-crying-groaning voice. It’s been hard to pin down the sound with any precision; but everyone keeps asking, “What’s up with Bernie? What’s wrong? What does he need?” My students and I were hard pressed to agree on the sound of his voice. His voice didn’t fall into one of the distinct sounds of the Five Elements. So we would have to look for other clues, never going by one clue alone. But here, we didn’t find much of anything out of the normal range. He’s an old guy and is pretty normal for his age: his coat still has some luster; his tongue is a little on the pale side, but still “in the pink.” There’s still a light in his eyes. His body is a bit heavy but still not abnormal. Good appetite. He gets around for an old guy. He’s just slowing down with age. But his characteristic “howling” keeps going on and on. It would make a great car alarm, getting everyone’s attention.

Bernie, then, didn’t give us much to work with; or, to put it another way, we we’re stumped. The consensus we had was that Bernie was trying to tell us something. He’d look you right in the eye and plaintively give you his characteristic howl (though again, it’s not quite a howl). It was like the sound of a lost soul calling for help. If we had more clues we could have used the Five Element theory to address a particular disharmony in Bernie’s system by addressing the organs most affected and the energy of other organs to support the one most affected. What to do then? Exactly what Traditional Medicine (TCM) does—treat the whole being. And be sure to treat his spirit

So we lifted the old guy onto a big hassock, gathered around and got lots of hands on him. We harmonized all of his meridians with Tui Na (Chinese Massage). We did acu-point work to boost his immune system, calm his system and give him energy, and balance his system. We used points on the head to clear confusion; points to reduce anxiety; and points to raise his spirit. To tell the truth, he wasn’t having much of it; he just wanted to look at you and implore you with his repetitive howl. He was somewhat resistant, but not enough for us to stop working with him. We don’t do anything the animal adamantly doesn’t want, and Bernie seemed just restless. That restless energy did give us a possible clue. It was not the restlessness of anxiety, but felt more like a foul wind blowing through him. Wind is a disharmony in the system related to Liver energy, so we gave extra attention to Liver acu-points.

When we were done the howls were still going. We had given him the best we had. Sometimes you just don’t know, so you just do what you were trained to do. There’s a mystery of the body that’s bigger than any of our theories of knowledge. But we know from 5,000 years of Chinese medicine that “the work works. Trust your learning.” Later on, someone noticed that Bernie had stopped whining or howling or whatever it is he does. He was resting, but not howling. And later, when he was up and waking around, the howling was still gone. Something in his system was harmonizing. I haven’t checked in with Dee and Woody on his behavior, but the howl may be back. If not, great. If it’s back, that’s ok too. Sometimes a disharmony needs to unwind over time. We’ll keep working with him. We’ll be there for him. And, in addition to all of the knowledge and techniques we have, we always are guided by the what the great Yellow Emperor of Chinese Medicine said 2,600 years ago in his treatise of internal medicine: “Always look for the rooting in Spirit.” We will keep working with him to address his body, mind, and spirit.

Tom Wilson, PhD, Director, Animal Acupressure Training Academy and Director of Education, A Chance for Bliss

Update from a wild weekend-- By Rachel

2010-04-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

Life on the farm has been busy lately. In particular this last weekend was very full. We had several community outreach events overlapping on Saturday and Sunday, and managed to pull them all off!

First of all, the last weekend of every month holds Lynn Willingham's marvelous used book sale. If you have never been, this amazing lady collects donated books and then sells them out of her barn for the benefit of local animal charities. I had never been before, and I can honestly say I was really impressed by the operation! Lynn offered us a great opportunity to set up a table and speak to people about the work we do, so on Saturday Lydia and I split a shift. Moose and Izzy came as out dog ambassodors, and were quite a hit. On Sunday, I came again with Jill and Max. Max especially was a rock star. All the ladies who were assisting Lynn at the book sale were so kind to us-- one of them brought a dog bed out of her truck so that he wouldn't have to sit on the ground, and the other offered her coat to him so he could snuggle and stay warm. The best part of the day for the dogs was getting to ride in Lynn's golf cart around the property. It was like puppy Disney Land.

On Saturday we also had a booth at the Loomis Earth Day Festival. Atlas, the Miniature Horse had his first public appearance. He handled it all in amazing stride. Nothing bothered him including: trains passing 50 feet away, fire trucks, a huge wolf in a cage, 4 zillion kids swarming around to pet him, audio equipment, musical instruments three times his height, balloons, umbrellas, pop up tents, baby strollers, flapping bags and booth favors, other horses, and five gagillion dogs. He was quite the spokes pony, and I can't wait for another opportunity to bring him out to meet his adoring public.

While all this was going on, Dr. Tom Wilson, our director of education was running a class back at home base. I would comment more on this, but only observed for several second at a time when I stopped to zip back and forth in the house for supplies.

Thank goodness the week has come and we can all get some well deserved downtime (maybe).

We Need Your Votes!

2010-04-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

We need to land in the Top Ten Ideas in the $50,000 category!

Like Attracts Like ~ by Deanna

2010-03-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

Our critters have great karma. They exude love and contentment, confidently sharing their personalities. They draw to themselves the virtues which they embody. Why else would so many extraordinary people be drawn to the ranch?

One of the most consistent channels of compassionate and talented sanctuary friends has been Dr. Tom Wilson and his animal acupressure curriculum. I wish I could find adequate time to journal about the students, modalities, breakthroughs and healings that we experience regularly as a result of Tom's partnership with A Chance for Bliss. One testimonial can be found in Chico, our once frightened and anti-social epileptic Chihuahua. Chico is no longer found hiding in the bedroom, but often found partaking in outrageous play with Joy and Izzy. Not only that, but when Tom comes to visit, Chico is beside himself with delight, his entire body wagging as he vocalizes his love to Tom. Chico is truly transformed.

Dr. Tom Wilson Demonstrates on Joy
Doesn't She Appear to be Blissful?
There is one student in particular that we are privileged to spend additional time with lately as she travels from Elgin, IL, and stays at the ranch with us. Beth Taylor is co-author of Dr. Becker’s Real Food for Healthy Dogs & Cats: Simple Homemade Food and See Spot Live Longer. Beth has helped us to implement some simple dietary changes that are making a real difference in our pack, especially those who were itchy and yeasty. Although Beth is not new to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), she was drawn to Tom's approach and teaching style. If Beth's traveling 2,000 miles isn't enough to demonstrate that Tom's classes are laudable, I urge you to read her testimonial.

Another expression of our kids' kismet revealed itself in the form of Karl Salomonson, shearer extraordinaire. We were referred to Karl by Peter Schofield when he relinquished Abby, Nina & Sophie to us before his move abroad. Karl utilizes acupressure techiniques when working with the animals and I was in awe of how relaxed they were for him. This video speaks for itself. Sally, Ray, Chrissy, Robin, Abby, Sophie & Nina were all given spa treatments on Saturday.

Karl brought another gift to us on Sunday. Woody has longed for a bird for quite a while and Karl's work arrangement is causing him to be gone for days at a time. It was with great enthusiasm that Noble was welcomed into the fold. While this isn't the greatest video, you get the sense that Noble is a happy and engaging little fellow. Woody is currently in search of a cockatiel mansion for his new buddy. Inexpensive is our goal (Craigslist!), but Woody's heart is set on large. If you have a spare, please let us know.

If you're not on Facebook, you might be surprised to learn that Homer now has his own page. Since shortly after his arrival, we'd talked about outfitting him with "Homie-Cam" to track his activities, but couldn't dedicate enough time to engineer a proper camera harness. We realized that Homer posseses more than his fair share of character and charm and his exploits would prove interesting. Then late last year we were befriended by Sockington, a well connected cat from Boston. From that point on, there was no stopping our gregarious pig. A worn laptop came up missing and next thing I know, I get a Friend request from a familiar face. A few staunch supporters are rallying for Homer to become a Presidential contender. I have no control over this pig and the accolades he receives from his newfound cyber-friends makes me nervous, frankly. Pigs are smart. Maybe too smart.

Thursday, April 1 marks the first month of our new Sponsorship Program. This program is vital to the sustainability of our work. For as little as $10 a month, you will receive a photo, a letter with ranch news and animal updates, and a special video link of an animal in the category(ies)you have chosen to sponsor. 500 sponsorships at just $10 will provide food and basic care for all of the animals that call Bliss home. Play a part in the animals' tremendous karma by becoming a sponsor today.

Life Marches On... Down the Runway ~ by Deanna

2010-03-25T00:55:00.001-07:00

As quickly as Taylor appeared, Taylor has gone.

I was hesitant to announce the presence of such a young, frail bunny after having spent hours reading about young cottontails. The prognosis is universally grave. Taylor really responded to our care and became so animated and friendly that my hopes were high.

Last Tuesday night, after the rest of the house was asleep, my noctural buddy sat on my chest and gingerly licked and kissed my lips, nose and all over my face. I hadn't felt sheer joy and wonder like that in quite a while.

I was crushed that Taylor crashed so quickly (again predicted by wildlife care sites) and held the tiny being in my hands as life left at 2:55 Friday morning. There had been nothing but positive signs. I finished putting groceries away late and realized that the cage was unusually quiet. He or she left quickly in the midst of sincere adoration and pure love. It has taken me a bit of time to talk about it.

On a brilliantly lighter note, I am thrilled to announce that a Halo Salon and Spa in Roseville is hosting a Fashion Show on April 30 and the proceeds benefit A Chance for Bliss!

Salon owner Alexis Reynolds became familiar with our work through Stephanie, a friend who had hoped to place a horse with us. The blind and lame Appaloosa mare had been abandoned by her owner and left at a Penryn boarding stable. Though we were unable to take the mare at the time, we offered to pitch in to keep her fed and delivered a jacket to protect her from the rain. When a space opens up, this sweet mare has a home here and we are grateful to Stephanie for caring for her in the interim. The jacket was too small and when Stephanie dropped by to return it, Alexis came with her.

We are very honored to be chosen as recipient of the proceeds from this fun event and will bring a couple of four-legged fashionistas of our own.

The fashion show runs from 4pm to 8pm and culminates in the raffling of cool prizes. Beverages and snacks will be provided. If you would like to contribute an item or service to the raffle, we would graciously accept.

Hope to see you at Halo on April 30!

Just a Little Blog... ~ by Woody & Deanna

2010-03-16T22:23:00.000-07:00

An orphaned cotton-tail was found on Taylor Road and taken to Foothill Feed on Sunday, so Brad called Woody. Admittedly, the information on the internet doesn't sound promising, but little Taylor bunny drinks kitten formula just fine, exhibits regular nocturnal behavior and shows no signs of diarrhea. He or she has a gimpy left front leg.

We're taking it a day at a time...

Ides of March?? Bring it on!-- By Rachel

2010-03-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

March is flying by and April is shaping up to be a busy month! Our Second Saturday open house this past week was a blast as usual. It was a little bit slower than last month, which gave us more time to spend on giving tours and getting to know new friends who dropped in to pay us a visit! It was a beautiful day, and the animals were all enjoying relaxing in the sun after the rain. At one point, no less than five horses out in the pasture were laying in a row, taking a nap and soaking in some rays. Valentine the baby goat also enjoyed his nap, but prefers to take it in a feed bucket. Watch out little man, or the horses might start getting ideas!

Next Saturday we will be supporting our friends from the Help to Recovery Program by marching with Team Easter Seals in the California Brain Injury Association's Third Annual Walk for Thought at William Land Park. Last year, we brought a couple dogs, and HTR was generous enough to allow us to share its booth. We are planning the same for this year. All procedes go to support brain injury services and prevention in the state of California. It is a great cause,and we hope to see you there!

The virtual ranch is up and running at full speed. We are now registered with EBAY Giving Works, so that sellers may choose to donate a portion of their auction sales to us. Thanks a million to the generous souls who have done that already-- we may not know you face to face, but we feel your love and support! Our spokes pig, Homer, is now on Facebook and Twitter! He posts regularly, so look him up under Homer Le Porc (French for 'the pig'). One of Homer's first missions is to help us meet our goal of 5,000 A Chance for Bliss Facebook fans by April 1. As of this writing we are up to 268, so our goal is lofty, but I have faith that our supporters will come through for us!

Why do we need so many Facebook fans by April 1 you ask??? Because we will be competing for a grant from Pepsi during the entire month of APRIL on their Refresh Everything website, and we need all the votes we can get! This grant would cover food for the animals for AN ENTIRE YEAR!! THATS HUGE!! You can help us win this grant by doing two things 1. Become a fan of A Chance for Bliss on Facebook, where we will be giving instructions on how to register to vote on the Pepsi website 2. Vote once a day every day throughout April, and encourage your friends to do the same. This is a great way to make a huge financial contribution without spending a dime.

Until next time, happy trails!

March marches on-- by Rachel

2010-03-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

The end of February and the beginning of March have brought a steady stream of activity.

With the help of Cathy, our wonderful new web master, and Judy Bugas, our awesome volunteer, we have launched our new sponsorship program. This gives people the opportunity to sponsor one of four categories of animals for as little as $10 a month! This is the perfect gift for the person who has everything, or a great alternative for people who want pets but can't house them. Most of all, it is a great way to show love and support for senior and special needs animals, for the cost of about two grande coffees monthly. Sponsors will receive a letter about and photo of a different animal from their category each month-- what a great way to stay in touch and learn about the stories of the residents! Please see http://www.achanceforbliss.com/sponsor.html for more details.

We had a rare treat at the end of February. Dee made a big pot of vegan chili, and the board of directors along with long time sanctuary supporters and leaders of Mr. Bucher's Brainiacs, Larry and April, had the opportunity to share a meal and stories with some distinguished guests. Paul Castello and his wife Vikki privileged us with a screening of the video montage of his trip to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, which he organized as a benefit for the sanctuary. The images he captured are beyond words. The stories they both had to share left me gasping, laughing, and crying. They are both amazing individuals, and I know I am not alone when I say the time we were able to spend with them was truly a gift. Until next time, Vikki and Paul, KWAHERI and ASANTE SANA!

The lastest news is that last Sunday we participated in the Sacramento Horsemen's Association annual tack sale. We sold around 60 small donated tack items for a total of $570 dollars. In horse terms, that is about 40 bales of hay or about enough to feed one horse for about six months. Not too shabby! Thanks to all who have made tack donations, that make fund raisers like this possible for us.

Until next time, happy trails!

Happy Valentine

2010-03-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday February 23rd 2010, Easter Seals Superior California Help To Recovery Program took our monthly jaunt to A Chance For Bliss. It was an overcast day, but it was a fun trip nonetheless. You see Anthony drove the bus, Karen our R.N. and Jasmine our Rehab-aide rode shotgun. It was Karen and Jasmines first trip to the animal sanctuary.
When we got to the sanctuary we were greeted by Deanna and Woody. For the first time I can remember they had no work for us. It was great because we got to play with the doggies. I got to play with my new favorite dog Jill, I call her Chili-Dog. She just jumped on my lap and did not want to get off my lap for anything. We met a new baby goat named Valentine. She was only 13 days old. Heather fell in love with that goat; they could not be separated until we left. However, I did serenade Valentine while she was on my lap. The most memorable part of the trip for me, was when Jasmine our Rehab-aide told me about her weekend, she told me her boyfriend was trying to annoy her by saying Huh every chance he got. You see, that’s what I always do to everybody. Remember take a tip from the dogs, don’t pre-judge us by our skin color sniff our feet a little, then you judge what is in our heart.

Hector
Easter Seals Superior California
Help To Recovery

Old horses+ Longer days= Lots of hair -- by Rachel

2010-02-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

Shedding season has officially kicked off at the ranch. I wandered through the old horse pasture the other day with a shedding tool. I don't know if there is an exact way to quantify horse hair, but if there was I am pretty sure the measuring unit would be 'gobs'. After about 20 minutes of strolling around, the entire pasture looked like a Tribble stampede. From now until around May, it will be shedding all day, every day. The senior horses especially make lots of padding for bird nests with all the winter wool they are downsizing. For those of you who haven't experienced this, you haven't really ever groomed a horse until your car upholstery is fuzzy afterwards, your shirt itches, and you're picking hair off your tongue because you were concentrating so hard you started breathing through your mouth. Man, I love horses.....

Spring brings new and exciting changes to the ranch…. By Rachel

2010-02-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

Hello all! One of the things I love most about being at the sanctuary are all the different hats I get to wear. Most of you who have met me, have done so while I am crawling around with tools under a horse, covered in hair and mud. I had the opportunity this Second Saturday open house to crawl out from under the horses and meet some of the fabulous community members who came for a tour. Spending time with the families who came to visit was a blast, and I am definitely going make it a more regular occurrence!

This new activity has gotten me excited about the many other new and exciting changes in the hopper for this year. I will just mention a few…

First and foremost, we have a few new residents to welcome!

Charlotte is a 16 year old potbelly pig. She is …um…… opinionated, and quite vocal. She is a hoot to watch. Upon arrival she immediately staked out her territory with the cats on the porch. She also enjoys lounging in her own personal dog house.

Quincy is a darling senior quarter horse, who long time sanctuary friend Heather Olson rescued and maintained until we were able to take him. He has a bevy of physical needs, which we will be diligently working towards sorting out this spring.

From the dog world, Casey and Kringle have joined our ranks (WHAT!?! Two non- Boston Terriers in a row!). Not to worry though—we have not lost our Boston touch. Izzy, an almost year old Boston puppy, who was born without an anus, also now calls the sanctuary home. Although this girl has been through a lot (surgery, continued incontinence, etc.), and will probably require surgery in the future to improve her bowel and bladder control, she is a little ball of happiness. Much to the relief of the older dogs, she and Joy are now playmates, and keep each other entertained.

We are also welcoming two unusual new residents. Chrissy, the angora goat, came to us with a severe leg injury that ultimately required amputation. During a pre-surgical x ray the vet detected something unusual in her abdominal cavity--- a skull. Much to our surprise she was pregnant when she came to us, and gave birth to Valentine, an adorable fawn colored doe, on February 10. Mama and baby are happy and healthy. Chrissy is moving around well on her three remaining legs, and Valentine is enjoying the advantage of unobstructed udder access.(Photo by the enormously talented Ann Ranlett, who joined us this weekend for the open house and brought her camera along).

Next, we need to extend a huge welcome to Lydia Patubo, who has agreed to accept a part time position as our Marketing Director! Lydia has shown her passion and dedication as a sanctuary volunteer for the last year, and we are so excited to see her in this new position.

Last year was a HUGE learning experience, as we launched our first official push for recruiting volunteers. We are taking all the knowledge we gained and revamping our volunteer program for this year in order to better meet the needs of the animals. Stay tuned for more information….

We are also improving quite a few elements of our community outreach. Keep checking in as we improve our website, schedule more events, and get ready to launch a new resident sponsorship program!

Sincere thanks again to all amazing people who assist us in continuing our work. As spring brings new grass, lots of sunshine, and TONS of shedding winter coats, we will keep you updated on all the new and exciting goings on!

Rachel

WOW! T-Shirts!

2010-01-29T14:04:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday, January 26th 2010 Easter Seals Superior California Help To Recovery Program made a trip to A Chance For Bliss in Penryn California. The trip there was fun. Jeremiah and Rik reminisced about having lived in Placer County. Jeremiah even commented that his daughter was born there.

When we got to the sanctuary Al our cashier presented Deanna and Woody a check for one thousand five hundred fifty two dollars and ten cents. This was a record amount that we earned from our Holiday Shoppe.

Later Steven, Jeremiah, Tom, and Rik helped Deanna and Woody to clean feed buckets. It was quite a sight to see; they were in the shower and bathtub washing and drying buckets. Anthony and John cleaned brushes. Marcellos, Susan, Les, and Hector worked in the kitchen.

The highlight of our day was hearing Maxi the dog bark. When she barked she sounded like she was saying merp merp, you see, Merp is the name some of us affectionately call the rehab aide named Prem.

The following day Steven, Marcellos, Anthony, Les, and Hector received shirts from
A Chance For Bliss, all you could hear in the classroom were the choruses of Wow T –Shirts and thank-you.

Remember, take a tip from the dogs do not pre-judge us by our speech impediments judge us by what we say, not how we say it.

Hector

Easter Seals Superior California
Help To Recovery Program

Mt. Kilimanjaro - Final Note from Paulie

2010-01-29T09:13:00.000-08:00

I'm writing this ten days after reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It has given me a little time to reflect on this incredible experience, as well as to heal my body and mind after the punishing exertion of the climb itself. First and foremost, I wish to give a heartfelt thanks to my loving wife, Vikki, who diligently kept a blog of my progress, even after we lost radio contact just two days out. This meant that Vikki had to do research to determine where I might be in the climb and estimate my progress. It all culminated with a phone call to her from the summit of the mountain letting her know I had succeeded and that I was OK. The truth was, I was far from OK and I still had to descend over 9,000 feet just to get to the lower camp, followed by another 5,000 foot descent the following day. I'm sure she continued to worry and wasn't fully relieved until I called her from my hotel in Arusha telling her that I was safe. She also kept in touch with family and friends the whole time. This is in addition to working full time, commuting 200 miles per day to work and caring for our beloved dogs at home. Just remarkable!

The expedition spanned nearly seven days in the most beautiful works of nature I had ever seen. We travelled through five distinct climate zones, not found anywhere else on Earth. It was a privilege to be there. I was pushed to my limits physically and mentally and then went beyond that which I thought I was capable. There were many times that I truly believed I would not reach the summit. That's when I would have to focus on one step at a time. Breathing became difficult and it was important to climb slowly, but continuously. It is amazing what the human body and spirit can endure when there is a powerful desire to reach a goal. Through perseverance, as well as the tremendous support from my mountain guide, Herment, I was rewarded with the greatest experience a mountain climber can achieve. Standing on the summit of the highest mountain in Africa. It was the greatest adventure of my life, so far.

As tremendous an experience that this was, there were amazing human connections which resulted from our journey. We were made aware of 'A Chance For Bliss Animal Sanctuary' through our friend, Christina, and that is how the climb became a fund raiser and awareness event. We feel blessed to have met Woody and Deanna, owners of the sanctuary and to have seen first hand the loving care that their animal companions receive in the autumn of their lives. Then we were introduced to Lary Bucher and his fifth grade class, the Brainiacs, who created the most beautiful banner which I was fortunate enough to carry with me half way around the world and unfurl at the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. In addition, on the personal side of things, Vikki and I have made a closer connection to family and friends throughout this whole process which we hope to carry on into the future.

Many thanks to all of you for your support, kind words and especially for letting us be a part of your lives. We are proud to be new friends of 'A Chance for Bliss".

Paul is Coming Home

2010-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

I have not spoken to Paul since the evening he called me from the summit…..he did not get back to the hotel until his Tuesday morning, our Monday evening. Hopefully he can call me today. Right now it is 8:30PM his time so I will probably not hear from him until this evening. I tried calling but my call would not go through. He leaves this Wednesday evening (10:30PM) after having a guided tour of the city Arusha. He will be home on Thursday at 1:30PM.

I just want to thank all of you who have supported Paulie and I during his climb. It was wonderful to get so many comments and emails full of love, prayers and support. This is my last blog entry. I am sure Paulie will want to make a final entry to let all of you know how the climb went. Take care.

What is Happening? ~ By Woody and Dee

2010-01-18T13:57:00.000-08:00

The BIGGEST thing that has happened is Paul Castello reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro while holding the vision of our little sanctuary in his consciousness. We stand in awe of his fortitude and humanity. Paul and Vikki are bright lights and we are deeply moved by their presence in our lives.

We acknowledge and apologize that we are long overdue getting an update out. There are a myriad of reasons for the delay, but each is simply an excuse. Instead of blaming, we take full responsibility and would ask for your forgiveness while at the same time thanking you for your patience and continued support.

The Primary Financial Goal
In regards to the property status, we did, in fact, meet our goal of raising $65,000 in an effort to save the sanctuary. That sum represents the amount of past-due payments combined with penalties and it has been placed into a separate bank account while we work with the lender to modify and/or re-structure the current loan. All of the required documents were sent to the lender again on 12/30/2009, and yesterday a letter was received acknowledging the fact that the package is complete and is being reviewed, quoting a 30-45 day time line.

In conversations with the lender (HSBC), we have been informed that while the Notice of Default has expired (i.e. 90 days since it was recorded on the property), there has been no sale date established for the possible sale or auction of the property. We assume this to be the case since we have in fact submitted all of the necessary paperwork once more.

Our hope is that they would offer to re-work the loan, reducing the payment such that the monthly obligation becomes more affordable, thus supporting the sanctuary's longevity. The truth of the matter is that we do not know what they may or may not come back with. We have not disclosed to the lender that the sanctuary raised $65,000 because we do not want to give them all that money and have them do nothing, thus putting us back in the very same position. The fact that we have that money simply puts us in a much stronger position to be able to respond and perform to any sort of new loan terms, so we take it a day at a time and pray that they consider the entirety of the circumstance when they review our package and respond with something favorable and workable.

Is the Sanctuary "Safe?"
If they still do not work with us, what would we then do? The first option would be to contact some senior level person at the lender, and make a direct appeal to them (i.e. someone higher up the "chain of command" who has some authority). We would possibly follow that up with some additional publicity as a way of encouraging them to do the right thing, and with the prospect of the lender getting some much needed good press. If that failed, our next option would be to try and sell the property to some known person or entity, and ask that as a condition of the sale they agreed to a long term lease that would allow us to remain. If that, too, failed, the last option we have at this time would be to find another property to lease and thus re-locate the sanctuary. We are also looking at and for other ideas or options to have as many at our disposal as possible.

Obviously, our great desire is to remain at this location, and we want to for many reasons, not the least of which is the community and neighborhood support we have (i.e. use of other land free of charge and the world's best and kindest people living all around us). In addition, the layout of the home, the close proximity of freeway and major living areas, climate, etc... all make this an ideal location to care for animals at the end of their lives.

The Bottom Line
While we reached our primary financial goal, the fact remains that we need to continue to raise much needed funds to support day to day operations. On the one hand we now have the financial ability to house the residents for a substantial period of time, and even though we can't say yet exactly where that will be, it is a huge relief knowing we have the ability. On the other hand it costs more than $4,000 per month just to provide feed and basic care for the sanctuary residents, and therefore we need to shift efforts back to raising money to cover those expenses, as well as enlisting strong and able bodies to assist with the enormous physical workload.

We are taking it a day and moment at a time, focusing on caring for our flock, raising much needed funds to feed and care for each, and slowing down long enough to lavish love and attention on each and everyone of the residents.

Comings and Goings
Given what we do, regardless of money and other silly details that the residents have no care or concern for, real Life moves on and for us, that often means both tearful goodbyes and joyous hellos. Since our last update, we have had four beloved residents pass away; Hanauma, our 31 year old Rocky Mountain Horse, died in the first week of December; Walter, our 17 year old Italian Greyhound passed away two weeks later; Otis, our amazing blind Pug died this past Monday, followed immediately by Sunshine the very next day, Woody's birthday.

Sunshine had been with us four and a half years, Walter two years, Hanauma nine months, and Otis eight months. People often ask how we deal with the volume of loss and the answer is it is very, very hard. In fact, we would say that it is both the hardest thing we do, yet it is the most important thing we do... helping them pass away/transition with grace and dignity knowing they are both loved and adored.

Those goodbyes were sprinkled with hellos. Each passing provides an opening for a new resident, and the requests on behalf of animals in need have increased greatly with the recent media attention. While we can take some, we can't take them all, and saying no is very difficult. This is why our greatest vision is not to only survive, but GROW and EXPAND as it is clear that our work is needed and appreciated. There is a nearby lot for sale, but we'll address that later.

The wonderful beings who have been welcomed into the fold as a result of the aforementioned losses are: Atlas, our very first miniature horse, from Lake County where he was found wandering the roads and highways. He is small in size but HUGE in attitude. Kringle, named so since he was found lost and alone on Christmas, from Wonderdog Rescue in San Francisco in mid December along with his rescue-mate, Izzy. While Kringle is a very senior mixed breed who is simple and easy, Izzy is an 11-month old Boston Terrier ball-of-fire who was born with urinary disorder and without an anus. She is therefore a very active special needs pup who has us thinking of new ways each day to manage her condition, but also realizing daily that she is worth every bit of time and effort as she is nothing short of angelic.

Discharge Management Attempts
If you're so moved, please take a moment to leave a comment here for our dear and wonderful friend, Paul Castello, as he descends from the peak of the tallest point in Africa. His support of the sanctuary leaves us again in awe of the love and loyalty that comes the way of the sanctuary residents.

We are dancing as best we can amidst the rapid changes and flow of Life and promise keep everyone posted as things unfold. We end with one more heartfelt thank you for the continued love and support.

Blessings and love to all...

He Made It!

2010-01-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

Paulie just called me! He made it to the top! He sounded wonderful and so overwhelmed by the experience. We only spoke a few minutes and the call was very broken up. I am not even sure what phone he was using as it was a unknown number that came through to my phone.

I am so fortunate to be married to such a wonderful man. I knew he was an adventurer and risk taker, but I never thought I would be so involved. Paulie has done so much and gone through so much in his life, and he is so grateful and thankful for all of it.

He will call me tomorrow when we can talk longer.

Good night!

Day 6 - To the Top of Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-17T19:04:00.000-08:00

In less then an hour Paulie should be at the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro!

Paulie started hiking at midnight with the most challenging 6 hour section of the entire climb as he headed for Stella Point, which he should have reached around sunrise. Then after a short break he has to continue walking for the next 2 hours in snow, until he reaches Uhuru Peak, also know as the Summit! When British-administered Tanganyika gained its independence in 1961, the peak was named "Uhuru peak", meaning "Freedom peak" in Swahili. ...

It is -7 degrees there right now.

Once Paulie is there he will hold out the banner from Mr. Bucher's 5th grade class, The Braniacs, and hopefully get a few pictures. He will then release Sammie's tail hair in her honor and memory. He will say a prayer to thank God for getting him there safely and then he will head back down. Another 8 hours down! It takes 6 days to get there due to acclimatization and only 8 hours to get back down to Mweka Camp (elevation 10,170')where he will spend the night.

I hope he is able to call me from the top....I will let you know right away.

Day 5 - Mt Kilimanjaro

2010-01-16T19:38:00.000-08:00

It is Sunday morning, 1/17/10, 6:39AM. Today Paulie will climb from Karanga Valley to Barafu Camp (elevation 15,091').

The climb will only take about 3.5 hours and the elevation change is +1,968'. The hike is 2.5 miles to Barafu Camp.

Paulie's route will be through rocky and barren terrain on his way up to Barafu Camp. The camp will be another cold and windy place, but he will only be sleeping there from about 7:00PM to 11:30PM BECAUSE at midnight (Monday AM), Paulie will begin the summit climb!

I have not heard a word or gotten a text from Paulie. I still text him everyday. So far I have sent him 26 texts and 2 voicemail messages. I am hoping he is at least getting my messages.

OMG, the cell phone I use just for Paulie just alerted me to a vm message....Darn, it was just my father-in-law, Jack. He is the only other person calling me on this phone....He is such a sweetheart and calls me everyday but I was hoping it was Paulie. The support Paulie and I are getting from his family is wonderful.

Today I did all the chores that Paulie usually does for me...laundry, grocery shopping, pet feeding, dog walking, house cleaning...and I even make my own coffee. Boy howdy I am spoiled and so very fortunate.

Day 4 - Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-15T22:59:00.000-08:00

It is Saturday, about 10:00AM. This is the "easy" day for Paulie. He is allowed to sleep-in, wake-up at 7:30AM, breakfast at 8:00AM, and off by 9:00AM. Luxury!

Paulie is climbing from Barranco Camp to Karanga Valley. It will take about 3.5 hours. The elevation change is 328', about a 2.5 mile hike to the final elevation for the day. The Great Barranco Wall is 800' high so Paulie will be climbing over the wall and then down into the Karanga Valley, where the elevation is 13,000'.

I have not received a message from Paulie now since Day 2. I am sure he is still climbing. If he was not he would have already called me as they get sick climbers down the mountain right away. They put them in a wheel barrel and push them down the mountain!

I found some pictures online I think you will enjoy of Paulie's climb today. It looks scary. "Pole pole" (slowly, slowly).

The Sanctuary Needs your Help!

2010-01-15T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,
If you haven’t had a chance to make a donation, please consider donating. $5 dollars would be a huge help! The sanctuary really needs the help.
Big hugs and thank yous to all of you for supporting Paulie financially (donations), emotionally and/or spiritually!

Day 3 - Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

It is 7:30AM of day 3 - Today Paulie will climb to Barranco Camp. The elevation is 12,800'. It will take 5 hours to hike, I am not sure how many miles and the elevation change will only be about 328', but Paulie will need time to acclimatize.

The morning climb is steep as you climb to Lava Tower at 4,600 meters at midday before descending again on the scenic route to Barranco Camp. Lava Tower is a great hike between Shira Camp and Barranco Camp. It’s a great way to help acclimate to the altitude - hike high, sleep low - as it’s an extra few thousand feet above Barranco Camp.

I have not received a text from Paulie since yesterday morning. I know he is texting me but they are just not coming through. He told me not to worry if I do not hear from him. I am not, but I do miss hearing from him. I still text him just in case he can get my messages, I even left him a voicemail message. Paulie and I talk everyday at least 5 times while I am at work. He is my best friend. I have never gone a day without hearing from him.

Wow, it is only 9:00PM (PST) and I think I am done for the evening....

Lala salama

Day 2 - Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-13T20:26:00.000-08:00

Paulie text me 3 times today after he arrived at Machame Camp. He said the climb was very hard but he feels great. "It's incredible"...Marmoto just brought dinner..I have to stop or I'll explode. Lala salama, (Sleep well in Swahili).

It is 7:30AM of day 2 - Today Paulie will climb to Shira Camp. The elevation is 12,300'. It will take 7 hours to hike, about 3.75 miles and the elevation change will be +3,000'. It will be mostly dry. Freeze-thaw conditions (max 37°F on Thu morning, min 28°F on Thu night). Wind will be generally light.

I am so tired since Paulie left. I am not sleeping well, only about 4 hours a night and when you have to get up at 4:30AM that hurts!

Lala salama

Day 1 of the Climb - Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

Paulie started his climb this morning, 1/13/10. Tanzania is 11 hours ahead of us.
I talked to Paulie one more time this evening (PST). He is rested, healthy and ready to get started.

1/12/2010 - "I'm feeling very good right now and I had a very nice breakfast. I've taken a bunch of pictures and a little video. Earlier, I met a couple from San Francisco, (small world) who are going on safari. They approached me because I'm wearing my Whitney t-shirt. The man told me that he proposed to her at the top 2 years ago..."

"I just met a representative from Good Earth ...And get this. I'm the only one on the climb!!! How 'bout them apples. I'm very fine with it!"
_____
It turns out the other two folk's flight was canceled in Germany due to bad weather. Don't worry, Paulie will not climb alone. He will have a guide and 4 porters. Paulie is very spiritual so this may be a wonderful experience as a lone climber. When he makes it to the top, he has the tail hair from our beloved Sammie, who passed away May 18, 2007. He has kept that hair for this mountain climb. He will toss it into the wind in her honor and memory.

Paulie has started at the Machame Gate (5,363')and on this first day, he will climb over 3,937' to Machame Hut (9,300'). He will hike 7.5 hours and travel about 6.21 miles. He will arrive at camp where the elevation is 10,170'.

The weather should be dry. Mild temperatures (max 48°F on Wed morning, min 41°F on Wed night). Wind will be light.

Paulie will text me everyday if he can.

Thank you Ethan, Ella, Mr. Bucher and the Brainiacs, Isa, Christina, Sherri, Beth, Gail, I could go on and on...all of you for your prayers and support.

Paulie has arrived in Tanzania

2010-01-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

Paulie arrived safely in Tanzania and is just waking up, Tuesday, (5:30AM EAT). He slept well at the Le Jacaranda Hotel under the protection of a mosquito net and now has the entire day to explore Arusha. This evening he will meet with the guides and the other team members climbing for a briefing. Wednesday morning, about 8:30AM they will head out to Mt. Kilimanjaro.

I have been very fortunate so far, Paulie and I have been able to talk or text each other every day. Wednesday that will change. I hope he is able to text me from the mountain.

Almost there - Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

I just got off the phone with Paulie. It is about 6:00AM in Amsterdam, Monday morning. The flight over was very long and exhausting. Paulie got to the hotel and because the weather was so bad decided not to check out the local museums. He had spaghetti for dinner (his favorite meal) and went to sleep. He is now on his way to Tanzania. He should land at 9:30pm on Monday evening OR around 10:30am (PST) Monday morning our time. It was so good to talk with him. He got a good night sleep and is feeling very good. Boy howdy, do I miss him. He will spend another night getting rest and will start the climb on Wednesday AM, 1/13/10, Tanzania Time.

In Flight to Amsterdam

2010-01-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

Paulie's flight from SFO to Amsterdam was delayed 1 hour and 45 minutes due to severe weather in Amsterdam. He had to be at the airport 3 hours ahead of time, instead of the usual 2 hours because of the terrorist attempt last week....they finally took off at 4:55PM (PST).

Paulie was a little stressed out the last 24 hours because Murphy's Law was rearing it's ugly head. Lola got sick yesterday and we were at the vet until 7:00PM, when we got home the heater would not work and this am the fluorescent lights went out in the bathroom, all four of them! We have not seen any sun here for over a week so our solar flood lights do not work....all things that my hubby takes care of. I reassured him I could handle it and called him before his flight left to say the heat was back on....I am just beginning to realize all the things he does for me while I am at work. We have never been a part this long before. I miss him already.

Leaving on a jet plane for Mt. Kilimanjaro

2010-01-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Paulie leaves in the morning! Today he spent his time putting all his equipment and supplies into the duffel bag. Boy howdy, there sure is a lot! He is not a camper so he had to go online to find out how to pack his sleeping bag back into its' stuff sack. Yikes!

Less then 2 Days to Go

2010-01-07T19:11:00.000-08:00

Hi All, I just want to thank everyone for your support. Paulie has been getting lots of emails and calls wishing him well. The support is very powerful.

A few more excerpts from Paulie's journal:
"I fed the snakes today so Vikki won't have to worry about being attacked while I'm gone. As time draws near, my concern or worry about not being able to summit is increasing. Each day, several times a day, I envision taking those final steps to the top, knowing that it's going to be very, very difficult and challenging. I can think of little else."

3 Days Until Departure to Africa

2010-01-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a beautiful banner! Mr Bucher's 5th grade class at Whitter Ranch Elementary School is supporting A Chance for Bliss and tracking Paulie's climb. The class visited the sanctuary and Woody introduced Mr. Bucher to Paulie.

Dear Mr. Bucher and the Brainiacs, Paulie wanted to let the class know right away that he is truly speechless at their desire to be part of his climb and the beautiful banner they made. With your support and watchful eyes he has the extra boost he needs to make it to the top. Thank you.

4 Days until Departure to Africa

2010-01-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

Paulie started training in July for the climb. On November 9, 2009, he began keeping a journal (2 months before departure day). Here are a few excerpts from Paulie's journal.

11/09/09 "I leave for Africa in two months from today...It's something I've thought of from time to time as long as I can remember...I wouldn't even be writing this if it wasn't for the incredible support of my wonderful wife and partner Vikki.
I hope she doesn't live to regret it."

Paul Castello Climbs Mt. Kilimanjaro!

2010-01-03T13:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone,

First of all I would like to thank all of you who are supporting Paulie on his African adventure. Most importantly by doing so you are helping A Chance for Bliss continue to do the great work they do!

I thought I would start out by telling you a little bit about Paulie (for those of you who do not know him). He is 56 years old, recently retired from Santa Cruz County and loves adventure. We have been together for 24 years, married almost 20. He loves to ride his motorcycle, he ran marathons, has parachuted out of perfectly good airplanes, and loves to climb mountains.

Paulie climbed Mt Whitney in 2002. It is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. Rising 14,497' it has the distinction of being the highest peak in the contiguous United States. On that climb he raised money for the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, (http://www.aarbf.org) for Champ Camp which is a week long, residential, summer camp experience for young burn survivors. As a burn survivor himself, raising money for Champ Camp gave Paulie added motivation to reach the summit.

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is another opportunity for Paulie to raise awareness for another great cause, A Chance for Bliss.

When we met Deanna, Woody and all of their companions we knew that what they are doing is very important for both animals and people! We have raised 8 dogs and while that has been difficult at times and definitely heart breaking at other times, the joy that Paulie and I have experienced living with and caring for our animal companions has been and is a blessing.

Paulie starts the climb on January 13th. We are hoping that I will be able to receive phone calls and text messages from him as he ascends the mountain.

Each day I will make an entry here to let folks know how he is doing.

I already have butterflies in my stomach as he is leaving in 6 days. He has been training and preparing for the climb since July, 2009. He has also been keeping a journal. I will share some of his thoughts and feelings over the next few days about his training and the making of this trek. Until then take care - Vikki

Checking In... ~ Deanna

2009-12-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

Woody and I, along with our unbelievable circle of support, are truly overwhelmed with gratitude. We've also been busy with fundraising and holiday events, routine care and maintenance, coupled with the inevitable surprises inherent in our work.

Answers to the biggest questions are coming very soon ~

* I will wait to update our thermometer until Sunday's Fun Run and Dog Walk is closed.

* Woody has been working on the mortgage situation from a couple of angles and will provide an update no later than Tuesday.

On a personal note, I view it as a statement about our society that there have been a few ~ a SLIGHT few ~ that question the integrity and intention behind our curent situation. Outsiders not taking the time to get acquainted with our history posting comments sans their names. Upon exploration, these few leave many comments on a myriad subjects and their viewpoint is dark in nature. I truly have empathy for them. In the absence of darkness, however, we would be unable to appreciate the light. And so is life.

On that note, I am going to share a Christmas letter written by Woody's Mother, Suzanne Brintzenhofe. Mom has made it a tradition to share a snapshot moment each year that illustrates the holiday spirit, as opposed to a rundown of the annual events. It is my pleasure to share this wish for each of you.

Finding Love in the Strangest Places

On my way to the blood drawing lab in Germantown, I wondered if there would be a long line of people in the hall leading to the waiting room. I hoped not!

When I arrived, there were a few patients waiting in the hallway and I took my place in line. I didn't stand there very long before someone vacated a seat in the waiting room and the person at the front of the line offered the seat to me. I guess it pays to be a senior with white hair after all!

I was seated next to a beautiful woman with a small child in her lap, about one year old. The toddler climbed down from he mother's lap and started to go around the room to meet and greet the seated adults. She even wanted to sit on some of the adults' laps. She obviously hadn't been walking for very long by the looks of her unsteady gait.

During her "meet and greet" expedition around the room, another mother and child came into the waiting room and walked to the front desk to register for their lab work. This child appeared to be about three or four years old. The child was facing into the waiting room and standing quietly by his mother's side.

"Miss Congeniality" made her unsteady way to the front desk, looked directly at the boy standiung next to his mother, held her arms straight out, walked up to the boy and wrapped her small arms half way around his body.

There was a simultaneous chorus of "Awwwwww!" by every adult in the room.

May each of you experience the wonder, joy, and pure love of a child {or pup!} during this holiday and in the new year to come.

They say the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree... Our parents mean much to us.

Bug is recovering nicely from her surgery and Sunny spoons with one of us each night. For the most part, everyone else is well.

More soon... with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude.

They Arrived

2009-12-16T14:25:00.000-08:00

On December 15, 2009 we (Easter Seals Superior California-Help to Recovery program) were visited by Deanna & Lydia from A Chance For Bliss. With them, they brought Doc the horse, William the goat (better known as Billygoat) and Jilly the dog. Hector affectionately calls her Chili-dog. The clients paid $1for a picture with the animals. Prem did a lovely job of printing all the pictures that she took.
Deanna & Lydia also visited the Holiday Shoppe. They were surprised with all the inventory. They made plenty of different purchases. Deanna even thought the youth in Asia joke from Hector was funny.
It felt great to have Deanna & Lydia here to visit us and see all the hard work & effort we are putting into the Holiday Shoppe. We at Easter Seals are doing all we can to keep A Chance For Bliss open. We would be lost without having the animals to visit. It is the one tangible thing we can do to show we are good for something.
Remember to take a tip from the dogs. Don’t judge us by our intellectual challenges or our developmental disabilities. Sniff our feet and you’ll know if we have a good heart. You see, dogs don’t care about intellect; only good hearts.

-Lisa & Hector
Easter Seals Superior California
Help to Recovery Program

A Quick Note ~ Deanna

2009-12-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've been way underground on the public front. Things are going VERY well, but routine work coupled with various events leaves little time to talk about it. Suffice to say, Gods and Godesses are coming out of the woodwork and Woody and I are aware that this is no longer "OURS" ~ we're just in for the ride. Sacramento and Company called... But today is all about my brother and his kids.

Took Doc to Easter Seals for photos at the Holiday Shoppe (which is going GREAT this year!) Rachel Chao, on our BOD, worked there as a speech path, but has found a larger calling. Hector, you might recognize from our blog, told me that on a recent visit, Rachel spoke with him about her work ...with euthanasia ~ you know, the kids in China? His delivery is priceless... Brain injured, sure! In fact, I just now saw his blog post. I wish I could share everything with all of you.

We appreciate your patience as we juggle an enormous load.

Bug is having her remaining eye removed tomorrow. Sunshine and Odie are obviously slowing. I expected this from Odie, not Sunny. She is our best all around girl and I want to spend every possible moment with her. Emotional highs and lows out here.

Thank you for your support and understanding.

Stores Open

2009-12-09T15:19:00.001-08:00

On December the 8th, 2009 the Easter Seals Superior California Help to Recovery Program had the grand opening of their annual holiday shoppe. It was a very festive occasion. There were so many customers and entertainment by the carolers from the California Retired Teachers Association. They had everyone engaged in singing along with them. Everyone was in the holiday spirit afterwards.
Our cashier was Al. Steven worked the café. Lisa, Linda, & John did gift wrapping. Tony was our greeter. He did even better than the Wal-mart greeters. Les & Hector were selling raffle tickets.
You see, there are many raffle prizes to choose from. They include: a gift certificate to Cheesecake Factory, another gift certificate to Safeway, & many other prizes. The drawing will be on the seventeenth of December 2009. Tickets are only $1. That is some kind of deal!!
On the first day of business; according to Al, over $400 was sold. There are still many nice gifts available. So, please come visit if you can. All proceeds will benefit A Chance For Bliss.
Remember to take a tip from the dogs. Don’t judge us by our canes or walkers;
Sniff our hands first. We’ll know if you like us. You don’t have to wag your tail.

Lisa & Hector
Help to Recovery Program
Easter Seals Superior California

One Nation for Tuna ~ Deanna

2009-12-08T00:43:00.000-08:00

Admittedly, when we've run out of canned cat food, I've tried to entice Seinfeld and Beau with a can of tuna. Heck, I adore the stuff and couldn't get enough growing up. For whatever reason, our boys don't like the stuff, which baffles me.

Our new friend, Sockington, shares my passion for Tuna. This is one cool cat. In fact, he not only has his own website, he has a Twitter account with an astonishing 1,433,268 followers. He also has his own Army who also Tweet.

This fabulous new feline friend from the East Coast gave our little ranch a shout out today. Woody was surprised this morning when he logged into e-mail and found 30 donation notices from PayPal at that point. By the end of the day, we received $1,295 as 48 individual donations from 21 states in the US, as well as Israel, Malaysia and the United Kingdom. And just look at what it did to our web stats!

SOCKS ROCKS!!

I am pleased to see that our new buddy also uses Flickr to share galleries of his famous mug!

It was a busy (and freakin' COLD) weekend here in Northern California and I owe everyone a donation update. Tomorrow we visit the Easter Seals Holiday Shoppe with a pony AND we need hay and grain on top of regular duties. I'll get a true tally up by Wednesday morning. For now, I am increasing the thermometer by $3,571: $450 from Aunt Cynthia's event, $450 from the Cronan Ranch Benefit Ride, $166 from Margaret and the Travelers Christmas Craft Faire, $560 from the mail, $650 in assorted PayPal donations and $1,295 from the Socks Army. That is an enormous sum of money from a short few days.

To say that we feel loved is completedly understated. Trust me, we pass that warm fuzzy feeling onto our kids. I went out tonight near midnight to drop another round of hay to the horses. It's COLD out there! I am honored to do so. Thank you for all you're doing so that we might continue to treat these old kids with the care they so deserve.

MEOW!!

Reflections on a fabulous evening ~ Woody

2009-12-03T21:46:00.000-08:00

Wow!

That best sums up the evening that Dee, Moose, Max, and I had last night. The sanctuary was the guest of honor at the annual Friends Caring and Sharing Ornament Party. This is an amazing group of ladies who for 30 years have been helping a wide array of local charities with their annual event.

Each year the group selects a people based charity and an animal charity, and then holds a wonderful dinner, complete with raffle and wish list items for each charity. All the raffle proceeds go to the charity, along with the wish list items that have been brought to the event.

Since we work with both animals and people, we were the sole charity to be honored, and got all of the attention. Dee and I brought along Max and Moose, and the four of us arrived at the Roseville Elks lodge and right when we walked in, again, Wow!

The room was magnificently decorated, buzzing with energy and excitement, and filled to capacity by the time dinner was ready to be served. The leaders of the group, had asked us earlier what items we needed, and we gave them our wish list. Off the side of the room was an 8 foot table that was heaping with items from that list, along with a basket that was filled with checks and gift cards. Wow!

The boys were a huge hit, my bride looked marvelous, and we got to spend the evening with more than 100 amazing women sharing the joys of what we do the sanctuary. It was a magical, wonderful evening.

I was asked to give a talk, and was honored to share about our history, our current challenges, and the blessings that have been found amongst them, along with our great hopes and dreams for the future. We extended an invite to all to come and visit the sanctuary, and were told that many plan to attend the December 12th Open House.

I would add a special Thank You to the leaders of the group; Kathy Timmons, Jonni Spehar, Ruby Shoemaker, and Linda Norris. It was they who made the choice of our sanctuary being the charity of choice, and as many know, it could not have come at a better time.

The event raised more than $2,200 for the sanctuary (not including the value of the wish list items), and the four of us drove home feeling like our tanks had been filled to the brim. We were floating, and will never forget the evening, the new friends we have made, and the kindness that was extended to our sanctuary.

Wow!

I Am So Grateful! ~ Woody

2009-11-30T11:55:00.000-08:00

As I write this blog, I am feeling very thankful, literally bursting with appreciation, and since I am not one to keep things to myself, I thought I would share.

We are, of course, in the midst of some challenges and when we focused on that, it literally kept us paralyzed. But as soon as we made our situation public, a stream of support has flowed in that has been overwhelming, and as we have changed our focus, it has energized and renewed us. Very much like the scene in 'It’s A Wonderful Life' when the community comes together to save the Building and Loan, and Jimmy Stewart, realizing his life is meaningful, stands in his living room, speechless as neighbor after neighbor comes in to donate. Wow!

The feeling has been the same for Dee and me. We have received help from many we know, but even more help from those we have never met. People of every possible social category have come together to support the work we started 9 years ago. The reach of the sanctuary has now gone well beyond Dee and I, and is beginning to gain extraordinary momentum, and with that, starting to effect real change in the way our world views animals at the end of their lives.

We have raised more than $41,000, and are more than half way to our goal, and with each day there is more and more energy that is building. The sense of kindness and goodness is palatable, and even when that energy has not yet manifested in some concrete event, you cannot help but to feel it at the sanctuary. The animals feel it. Dee and I feel it and visitors feel it. It is a marvelous thing to behold and witness.

And so I am grateful. I am thankful, and I am hopeful.

And I am so for all those who have come into our lives to help us continue to serve animals that no one wants, and treat them with the dignity and honor they deserve, and allow them to pass when they chose, and in doing so, offer them A Chance For Bliss.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Woody

Photo or Woody & Nelly courtesy of Crystal Showalter

STR Update #5 from November 16

2009-11-30T11:39:00.000-08:00

(I apologize for the delay in getting Lydia's amazing work on our blog)

I think Andrew Lawson sums it up best about Dee and Woody: "They are very special people that have chosen a very special path and could use a bit of help right now."

Thanks to all of you, we're almost at the halfway mark....

A Chance for Bliss on Channel 10
Ann Makovec did a wonderful and thorough report on the situation at the Sanctuary. Pass this one around:
http://www.news10.net/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=70258

Current and Upcoming "Fun-Raisers"

Yummy Candy Grams - now through November 30th
Tiffany Malone of Easter Seals is the Program Director of the Help to Recovery (HTR) Adult Day Healthcare Program. Their clients are adults who have suffered brain injuries and participate in the program to build the necessary skills to hopefully one day be able to return to the community setting. The HTR clients come to the sanctuary once a month to work with the animals:

"The HTR clients have decided to do a November fundraiser for A Chance for Bliss... Attached is the flyer for our Candy Grams...anyone can place an order to purchase a Hershey's bar wrapped with a thankful note, telling someone in their life they "make the world a sweeter place." The wrapper also has the website for and proceeds going to ACFB. Please let everyone know about our fundraiser...they can contact us to place their order and/or purchase the candy grams. They will be available all month." Awww... shucks - you can't get any sweeter than that!

Doggie Massage - Friday, November 27th
Tom Wilson of A Chance for Bliss and Carole Baird, owner of Creekside Pet Resort, Sacramento
"We're going to massage animals as a fundraiser on November 27th, the day after Thanksgiving, (and maybe some that weekend). Clients who leave their animals for boarding will be given a option to have an acupressure massage for only $35; all proceeds will benefit ACFB. Carole will extract hard expenses such as stamps, envelopes, labels - all out of pocket expenses - all of the labor is free."

Crab Cioppino Feed - Saturday December 5th
From Kory Murphy: "The first weekend in December we have an annual Crab Cioppino Feed (150+) for my company and this year on our invites we will turn it into a Fundraiser for ACFB and asking for donations at the door. My co-worker Kathy Michalis will help me put on the event. "Crab Cioppino" Fundraiser @ KrisKo Farms, Newcastle. OPEN HOUSE 4-8. More details to come!"

KrisKo Farms Mandarin Sales
$12 for 10 pound bag and half of the proceeds will go to ACFB. (fliers and logo will go in each bag sold) have all interested contact me via email @ korylynnmurphy@yahoo.com

Doggone Fun on Sunday, December 6th, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Aunt Cynthia's Bed & Biscuit in Loomis is having their grand re-opening called "Yappy Hour." There will be lots of activities and fun galore at this event! Details are on the flyer on our home page of our website.

Now through January 5, 2010
Let me help ease your Holiday stress! I'm a licensed Massage Therapist and besides offering a nice discount, I will be donating 20% of my proceeds. So take advantage of this special and help the sanctuary at the same time. If you need a team of therapists for a corporate event, do have your company representative contact me. Email me (Lydia) for a flyer: ltpatubo@gmail.com

Mountains of Nickels for A Chance for Bliss - Now through January 10, 2010
Shop at Whole Foods Roseville, bring your own bags, and tell the cashier that you want your nickel per bag to go to A Chance for Bliss. It doesn't get any easier than this!

Thanks to our new friend, Jen Stiling, who has lots of great ideas for future Fun-Raisers that we definitely will keep in mind for the future.

In the recent ACTHA fundraiser, Jessica Bugge, winner of the Open Division gave us a most pleasant surprise. Well, really, a second surprise, as she generously donated back a portion of her cash award. Jessica heads up the Sacramento Horse Meetup Group, and together they are working to host a Poker Ride to benefit ACFB. Details to follow!

Linda Bagnall of Sun City/Lincoln Hills gave us some great news:
"As far as a Chance for Bliss Sanctuary, SCOOP (Sun City Organization of Pooches) has decided to hold a silent auction at our Holiday party in December and all proceeds will benefit them ... Others are donating baked goods, art paintings, etc..."

Thanks for Continuing to Spread the Word

Rene Bender, Fell Legend Farm
... please write Ellen and Oprah about the A Chance for Bliss and the wonderful animals they help."

http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=234
https://www.oprah.com/ord/plugform.jsp?plugId=216

Denise LeBeau, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary"I work for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and we have an online outreach website called the Best Friends Network. The Network is comprised of various Go Local communities and we've added the call for donations to our California Go Local for Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary. We were emailed the story link from one of our Members and went ahead and posted it."

Here's the link to their article:
http://network.bestfriends.org/golocal/california/13576/news.aspx

Debbie Fuller, The Biscuit Foundation
It's so nice to make new friends! " ... I went on your website today and I love what you're doing. I cried and smiled at the same time. You have your hands full but I know you have to love what you are doing for these pets. ... Keep up the good work!!!"

Andrew Lawson
"I am just spreading the word about this wonderful place ... A Chance for Bliss, is a last stop for a long list of wonderful animals that have been given up on. Everything from horses, goats, cows, pigs, dogs ..." He and Christopher Brown also spread the word to: Bank of America, Sutter Health, William-Sonoma, and Hartford corporations.

Felice Hussa
" Amanda and Susan put flyers in the Auburn Library, the Echo Valley Feed store on Nevada Street, and one of the Vet offices in Auburn last week ... I spoke at length to my sister-in-law, Ileana, who lives in Florida ... my brother and his wife have been active in animal rights for years ... Anyway, Ileana forwarded my email to around 50 of her animal friends around the country."

Reverend Ann Whitfield
"A Chance for Bliss is very dear to my heart. Please consider it as one of your charities ... My son, Dru, has sent the letter out to many people that are affiliated with larger corporations in hopes that you might receive some attention and donations through them also."

Ann also wrote a wonderful story about A Chance for Bliss that I will be posting.

Judi Fibush
"Both David and I and our friends the Ewings have written Ellen and Oprah. We sent David's letter out to about 30 friends who said they would write to these shows ... "

Kory Murphy
"I have 6 Straw Bales a Metal horse feeder and some bags of piggie food to bring you. I have a few people that have said they were going to donate ... I am telling everyone I know and what the situation is out @ ACFB. And asking people to spread the word to investors and business owners to donate what they can."

INTERNET SHOPPERS
If you haven't heard about iGIVE or Goodsearch, let me have two of our supporters tell you about them - such an EZ way to shop and fundraise at the same time!

Suzi Johnston for iGIVE:

1. RAISE A PENNY PER SEARCH WITH iSEARCHiGIVE & THE IGIVE TOOLBAR
http://www.iSearchiGive.com

With iSearchiGive, you can raise a penny (or more) when you search the web! Use it to find coupons, products, stores that help your cause, and much more. And did you know...your iGive Toolbar will automatically track donations for your cause, anytime you shop at one of the 700+ stores in our network!
To learn more about your iGive Toolbar, visit: http://iSearch.iGive.com/FAQ.cfm#toolbar

2. YOUR $5 BONUS DONATION AWAITS
Make your first purchase (through iGive!) within 45 days of joining, andwe'll add a $5 bonus* on top of the usual donation to A Chance for Bliss! Find stores, donation rates, and coupons at: http://www.iGive.com/shop/merchants.cfm

3. SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT $5 BONUS DONATIONS AT iGIVE
Earn hundreds more for your cause by inviting your friends to join iGive.

4. GET CREDIT (DONATIONS) WHEN YOU SHOP -AUTOMATICALLY!Remember to start your shopping at iGive.com, or use the iGive Toolbar, and a portion of each purchase will be donated to your cause! It takes 10 days (on average, after shipping) for your purchases and donations to be credited. Occasionally, it can take up to 30 days. Track your earnings through searching
(iSearchiGive) and shopping at: http://iSearch.iGive.com/totalraised.cfm

Robin Zabala for Goodsearch
"I started using Goodsearch last year to benefit my daughter's school. This year she changed schools and her new school isn't on Goodsearch. I started looking for another charity to benefit at about the same time I heard A Chance for Bliss was in trouble. I found about Bliss from Lynn Willingham. I'm a bookseller and I'm out at Lynn's every week buying from her. My daughter's girl scout troop took a tour of the sanctuary and we were all quite moved by the place. Anyways, I found this on Goodsearch:"

EMAIL YOUR ORGANIZATION'S SUPPORTERS
"Tell fellow supporters how they can raise additional money just by GoodSearching. What if A Chance for Bliss earned a donation every time you searched the Internet? Or how about if a percentage of every purchase you made online went to support our cause? Well, now it can! GoodSearch.com is a new Yahoo-powered search engine that donates half its advertising revenue, about a penny per search, to the charities its users designate. Use it just as you would any search engine, get quality search results from Yahoo, and watch the donations add up! "

"GoodShop.com is a new online shopping mall which donates up to 30 percent of each purchase to your favorite cause! Hundreds of great stores including Amazon, Target, Gap, Best Buy, ebay, Macy's and Barnes & Noble have teamed up with GoodShop and every time you place an order, you'll be supporting your favorite cause. And if you download the GoodSearch - A Chance for Bliss toolbar, our cause will earn money every time you shop and search online - even if you forget to go to GoodShop or GoodSearch first! Add the A Chance for Bliss toolbar at http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/a-chance-for-bliss

THANK YOU, THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS DONATIONS:

Alice Aho, Karen Ahrns, Wendy, Andreotti, Joanne Andrews, Betty Abuer, Denise Draper Bays, Caroline Bering, Malia Bervar, Laura & Greg Bisi, Elizabeth Brandt, Jessica Bugge, Becky Buljan, Norma Carson, Catharine Ching, Merrilee Cichy, Ann Collins, Rhonda Cordano, Carol Crimmins, Wanda Critchfield-Guidi, Ursula Devere, Sandra Devin, Joseph Elie, Carol Emerson, Susan Farmer, Kathy & Greg Fellers, Susan Fischer, Diane Flice, Martha Florey, Libby Kelson Fulcher, Gary Gallawa, Deborah Gibbs, Carole Goldberg, Janet Hudson, Emily Jacobson, Sharon Jacobson, Alan Kim, David Kintz, Margaret Krause, Jan Krueger, Joanne Lee, Kelly McCusker, Paula Davis Magrath-Hambrick. Randolph Mayes, Lynn Mazie, Deborah Morris, Charles "Ben" Mundy, Laura Nasatir, M.D., Ellen Nakata-Harper, Kris Neustadter, Joan O'Brien, PPASTS Foundation - Patricia Irish, Suzanne Paoli, Vicki Perry, Karen Raasch, Miguel Rivera, Daniel Roberts, Michael Satterlee, Scooter's Pals, Linda Scott, Crystal Showalter, Sandra Silberstein, Janice Stone, Nadia Sureda, Sharon Thorpe, Nancie Watte, Sally Morgan Welch, Marsha Wilson, and to all our generous donors who prefer to remain "Anonymous."

We have connected with so many loving hearts and minds during this time. Thank you so much for your love and support - we can't do this without you.

Sincerely,

Lydia T. Patubo
Volunteer/Marketing & Development
A Chance for Bliss

We're Back..

2009-11-25T13:06:00.000-08:00

On November 24th we made our visit to the sanctuary. Anthony drove the bus. Theresa and Prem rode shotgun. It was a fun ride; but, Hector talked all the way, as usual. While we were there, Rik and Al gave baths to seven (7) dogs.

Even though we were not supposed to tell… Les broke the grinder. You see, Les & Hector were grinding flax seeds. They had ground a whole bucket when Les broke the grinder. If not for Deanna’s mechanical aptitude the grinder may still be broken.

Deanna reminisced with us about reading Stephen King novels and the different levels of reincarnation. While she was doing this; Jim was feeding the pigs. While he is there at the sanctuary; he is different as night and day. Kim and Ron groomed horses. Kim showed extreme patience; as usual, while there.

As you know, we have been raising funds through our candy-gram drive. So, we delivered a total of $323 to A Chance for Bliss. Next month we will have more money for them. We will have our annual holiday shoppe and all the proceeds will benefit A Chance for Bliss.

Remember to take a tip from the dogs. When you see our wheelchairs; don’t prejudge us. Sniff our feet first. Then, you can growl. (If you want.)

-Lisa & Hector
Easter Seals Superior California
Help to Recovery program

Life on the Ranch ~ by Deanna

2009-11-05T01:20:00.000-08:00

The ACTHA ride is thankfully behind us, but we're still catching up on communications prompted by our grassroots effort to build our support network. Admittedly, volunteers have been given little attention yet, but please don't give up on us. We're making progress.

I wanted to share that we've been struggling with a few animal issues, as well.

Baby, our favored diabetic Pom, was certainly not feeling well late last week, so went to the vet for testing. He suffered from a bout of Pancreatitis and Ketosis, which whe was treated for, but there was also a huge spike in blood sugar. At first we suspected Cushing's, but it turned out to be thyroid. He is feeling MUCH better, but he had us worried Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

On Sunday, both Bernie (19 yo Boston) and Moose (our newest old Pug) experienced seizures. This was not Bernie's first, and while short, it was intense. At his age, this is not unexpected. Moose's was rather light and we'd hoped it was a fluke, but he had another episode today, which looks more like a stroke. Moose is listing a bit and has difficulty walking without weaving. He is still happy and doesn't appear to have any pain, but our dear boy is simply changed. He has been here for such a short period and we adore him so, this is bringing us real heartache.

Woody and I were recently introduced to the concept of Compassion Fatigue through the HSUS publication Animal Sheltering. While this life is always filled with challenges like those described above, the incredible stress brought about by our current situation has us pretty well exhausted. Recognizing this and being aware of coping mechanisims will help us to regain our balance. We are not without support. But there is much more to do than time allows. We'll do the best we can to direct our energies wisely.

Thank you for helping us through this most interesting time. I believe that we will somehow survive and even thrive, but there are moments that simply must be spent loving animals as opposed to attending to other matters. Moose will follow me from room to room no matter how compromised his gait. He deserves to be recognized, coddled and hugged.

Thank you for your patience as we push through. It's time for me to go snuggle some old guys.

SAVE THE RANCH UPDATE #4 - by Lydia

2009-11-04T22:32:00.000-08:00

THE THERMOMETER IS OVER $23,000 and CLIMBING !!

There are Heroes Everywhere !!

Because of YOU, word has been spreading and there is so much to be thankful for in this newsletter. But first, it's important to talk about three heroes that truly stand out in this effort to Save the Ranch:

Margaret Andrews
'Mags' was the very first person to join A Chance for Bliss over a year and a half ago. She loves all animals, especially equines, and has been of invaluable assistance to Dee and Woody. Margaret is always at the ranch, pitching in wherever she is needed, no matter what - her 'elbow grease' is amazing! More than that, she is a true friend and her dedication to the sanctuary is unrivaled.

Lynn Willingham
This philanthropist extraordinaire has earned her wings many times over. For the past 20 years, the book sales she has held at her home in Penryn have generated over $425,000 for local, non- profit animal organizations. At the sale this past weekend, she set up a special area with a donation jar and pictures of our residents, and the money started pouring in... over $800! Lynn is truly a singular woman, and it is an honor to know her.

Linda Bagnall
This Sun City/Lincoln Hills resident and a newcomer to A Chance for Bliss, rallies her neighbors through their Yahoo! group. Linda has been a blessing to this effort, and we are so grateful for her support.

Please Join Us on Yahoo!

Please join the Yahoo! group for A Chance for Bliss - it only takes minute to do. It's small group right now, and we would love you to be a part of it. When you join the group, you'll be part of a forum where you can 'connect' to other like-minded members with your great ideas.

Kory and Shawn Murphy have hooked up with Kevin Wilkinson from Scott's Corner Hay & Feed in Newcastle to coordinate some run-in shelters, but we sure could use more materials (and we're not picky!) If you are able to donate building materials, do join the Yahoo group to work with them.

Since the Last Update

A HUGE THANK YOU to the ongoing monthly supporters of A Chance for Bliss. Their regular donations help defray the day-to-day expenses at the sanctuary. A thousand thanks to the Fibush, Sweeney, Reeves and Thorpe families.

We gratefully acknowledge our most recent donors:

Lynn Aiani, Judith Amor, Gene Anderson, JoAnne Andrews, Margaret Andrews, Judy Bacich, Tom Bailey, Nancy Ball, Carolyn Bartley, Joan & John Bartley, Bernell Bennion, Ann Bjorklund, Beverly Brown, Casey Brown, Jessica Bugge, Anita Bunter, Susan Call, Catharine Ching, Kathleen Cicairos, Janel Connell, Maria Cornelius, Charlene Cota-Leatherman, Sheree Courtney, Jeremy Couzens, Curtis & Janice Covington, Katherine Cunningham, Edna Dager, Cynthia DeBord, Robert Delucchi, Susan DeMartile, Deirdre Dement, Sandra Devin, Denise Draper Bays, Rita & Jack Drinkard, Alexis Durham, Joseph Elie, Paula & Mike Ewing, Jennifer Fatkin, Judi & David Fibush, Susan Fischer, Dennis Forbes, Nancy Fox, Scott Freitas, Pamela Fulmer, Gary Gallawa, Ann Gardner, Diane Glueckert, Natalie Granchukoff (again!), Domenic Gulino, Ron Hanson, Tony Held, Julie Hersch, Jeanne Heschele, Sandra Hesnard, Jerri Hildebrand, Birgit & Kurt Huffman, Shelley Jacobson, Donna Jenkins, Patricia Johnson, Carol Johnston, Suzi Johnston, Joni Jorgensen Risk, Sunny Jung, Doris Keyes, Kathryn Keyes, Alan Kim, Heidi, Cali & Alex Knost, Sarah Kopy, Carmen Kouhestani, Margaret Krause, Liang-hsuan Kuo, Joanne Lee, Kian Lee, Felicity MacGrain, Maria ManzanillaOwen, Lisa Marshall, Karen Mason, Katherine Masyn, Nancy McKee, Marnette Meaney, Vicky Meyer, Ellen Nakata-Harper, Beverly Nanez, Christian Nielsen, Vicki Oberg, Lenna Ontai-Grzebik, Caryn Parmalee, Ashley Pelia, Misty Pellow, Vicki Perry, Pat Pitts, Candace Primrose, Marilyn & Rex Railsback, Ann Ranlett, Katherine Reschly, Susan Reynolds, Robin Risser, Vicky & Dr. Miguel Rivera, Betty Rogers, Karen Rogers, Sara Rusmisel, Lana Schultz, Vickie Shaug, Lois Shawver, Paula Skelton, Janice Slone, Erik Smith, Melodie Smith, Peggy Smith, Susan Stack, Janis Stanfill, Kelly Swallows, Colleen Sweeney, Carley Sweet, Jetta Tatom, Gary Thomas, Elise & Paul Thompson, Sharon Thorpe, Marysue Tiffany, Sarah Tomaszewski-Farias, Robert Tsuk, Kathleen Vanstory, Julia Velson, Melanie Walker, Nancie Watts, Dana Westmoreland, Ann & James Whitfield, Lynn Willingham (again!), Masako Yeager, Friends of Placer/Tahoe Vista Placer County Animal Shelter, Furman Properties, LLC, Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue and NoFleaz.com.

Thanks to so many who have written to the The Ellen Degeneres Show, including: Jeanette Patterson, Judi and David Fibush, Julia Velson, Doris Keys, Elizabeth Faherty, Becca Davis, Christina Watts, Cynthia Dibor, Kay Cunningham and Eileen Thornton. Here's the link again: http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=234

Here's a great example of a letter from Judi Fibush:

"Here's what I did for the Ellen show. I filled in my name etc at the top of the form including a (required) picture of Handsome (attached). In the 'story' I wrote this:"

"This is about the marvelous people who run an animal sanctuary for all kinds of domestic animals who have been abandoned, dumped, starved, beaten, left to die, etc. by giving them a home and care and love until they pass on. David (Woody) and Deanna are in a terrible financial crunch to keep this place going. Please go to their website at http://www.achanceforbliss.com/index.html and look up the RESIDENTS and see their pix and read their stories. (My favorite is Handsome, the pony who was born with a club hoof , they had surgery done and he is normal now and very handsome.) they are also a 501(c)3 #261452047 charity so all contributions are deductible. Please help this cause as Woody and Deanna are an unselfish, passionate and caring people as you can find..."

Wanna write Oprah? https://www.oprah.com/ord/plugform.jsp?plugId=216 Let me know when you do!

Dan Turner wrote to KTXL Fox 40 ! Thank you, Dan!

Thanks to so many of you for requesting copies of the flyer, "At the Heart of the Matter", including: Tom Wilson, Rene Bender, Mary Hartwell, Sharon Jacobson, Kory Murphy, Linda Bagnall (Linda also wrote to the Lincoln News Messenger), Dr. Gerald Djuth, Lynn Willingham, Suzi Johnston, Ronda Belka, Tiffany Malone, Heather Ireland, Christina Watts, Shawn & Kory Murphy, Felice & Gregory Hussa, Birgit Huffman, Cory Bertoglio, Cynthia McCoy, Lynn Willingham, Jajuan Francis, Emily Jacobson, Tish Eccleston, Ann Ranlett, Carl Brunberg, Pamela Gorman, Heather Olson, Theresa Magee, Carole Baird, Diana Ramirez, Vicki Rivera, Frances M., and Tana Symons. A link to the flyer is now on the home page: www.achanceforbliss.com Thanks to all of you for spreading the word!

Diana Himes
Our new friend to A Chance for Bliss wrote to her Sun City/Lincoln Hills Yahoo! Group: "This is a worthy group. I have been to their place and met ALL of the animals. It is a wonderful, clean, and caring home for older animals that have no other option but death. Some of these animals are there because they have lost their elderly owners. Others are there because of neglect or abuse, and no one wanted them. They are now living out the rest of their lives knowing only kindness. This couple has devoted their home and property to this and now this is in jeopardy. Check out their website and please consider sending a donation if you can..."

Felice Hussa
Thank you for posting the flyer and for recruiting a friend:

" I have put up posters at Blue Goose Produce, Wild Chicken Coffee, Christensen's Tack, Main Drug, and Raley's Loomis. Also Newcastle Produce. I added tags at the bottom with achanceforbliss.com ... I'm going to make several posters that are two put together so they can go in a window with the tags on the poster inside the building."

... Pat Brown is a wildlife rescuer who specializes in ducks and geese. She works occasionally at the Folsom Zoo. She will download some flyers and go to these places to post them tomorrow: Folsom Zoo, Bayside Veterinary Hospital, Douglas Ranch & Supply, Raley's on Folsom Auburn Road."

The Railsbacks (friends of the Fibush family) delivered a cash donation and blankets to the sanctuary.

K.D. Beebe
Hey, here's an idea for your sorority girls or fraternity guys!
"In San Francisco I was friends with girls in sororities and they often told me about their philanthropy work. Have you considered contacting any sororities or fraternities at Sac State or even UCD? They're basically perky little armies who do their own fundraising ..."

BK England
I am doing my darndest to contact people, and hope to have Woody on the KAHI Corral ... I love those guys!!!

Reverend Ann Whitfield
"Hey Dee: If you liked the story of Summer, would like me to keep writing animals stories for you ... to help raise awareness and funds? ... This is one thing I can do for you. My husband, Jim is sending you a donation via your website."

Somehow God will work this out for you. Have you tried the Bill Gates Fund, which is focused on kids and education but you have disabled kids come to the ranch ..."

FUN-RAISERS FOR A CHANCE FOR BLISS -
MARK YOUR CALENDAR !

CAFEPRESS.com
A Chance for Bliss t-shirts are now on sale online through Café Press. Click on the donate button on their home page: www.achanceforbliss.com and you'll find the link to Café Press. There are many styles to choose from (I better order mine today)!

TOM WILSON, PhD. of A CHANCE FOR BLISS
and CAROLE BAIRD, OWNER of CREEKSIDE PET RESORT (Tom teaches animal classes at the sanctuary, including Craniosacral, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tui Na, Acupressure, Reiki and more!)

Acupressure Massage at Creekside Pet Resort
5441 Hackberry Lane, Sacramento

"We're going to massage animals as a fundraiser on November 27th, the day after Thanksgiving, (and maybe some that weekend). Clients who leave their animals for boarding will be given a option to have an acupressure massage for only $35; all proceeds will benefit ACFB. Carole will extract hard expenses such as stamps, envelopes, labels - all out of pocket expenses - all of the labor is free."

EASTER SEALS HOLIDAY SHOPPE
TIFFANY MALONE, MSW, ASW, PROGRAM DIRECTOR

"... a group of our clients here at Easter Seals volunteer at the sanctuary once every month. Our clients from the Help to Recovery Program are adults who have suffered brain injuries and are participating in our program to build the necessary skills to hopefully one day be able to return to the community setting. Deanna and Woody were so generous in offering us this volunteer opportunity over a year ago, and I can't describe the degree to which it has positively affected and changed these clients.

Each year, our program hosts a Holiday Shoppe in December. It is strictly stocked with donations from Hallmark and other donors, and the items are sold at reasonable prices to encourage people to shop for friends, family, co-workers, etc. It's also a venue for the participants of our other adult day programs to shop for each other and their loved ones. Our clients select an organization to donate the proceeds each year; last year they selected ACFB, and we were able to donate over $1,000 to the sanctuary. Immediately after wrapping up the shoppe, the clients decided they wanted ACFB to be the recipient again this year. I don't have dates yet, but hopefully this will be something you can eventually add to your flyer. As soon as I have the details, I will forward the information to you. We are usually open 6-8 times throughout December (Monday-Friday). I just wanted to give you a heads-up.

Thank you for keeping us posted on everything that is going on. We appreciate all of the information and will do everything we can to help."

GET YOUR VITAMIN C!
Krisko Farms in Newcastle is taking advance orders for their Placer-grown mandarin oranges. Half of the proceeds will benefit A Chance for Bliss. A 10 pound sack is only $12! Thank you to Terri Dudgeon (Kory Murphy's mom) !

AUNT CYNTHIA'S BED & BISCUIT - GRAND RE-OPENING! YAPPY HOUR!
Sunday, December 6th Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.
3190 Swetzer Road, Loomis (near King/Taylor intersection)
Activities Planned: wine tasting, munchies (for humans and dogs); Pet Portraits with Santa; Grooming Demo; Obedience Training Demo; Tours of the Cat Nap Inn and four large living rooms for cage-free boarding; large play yards, raffle (several items, including a week at a time share anywhere in the world) and a short dedication ceremony in Memorial Garden."
(BTW, Aunt Cynthia's is now able to care for cats in my new building! It is called "Cat Nap Inn". I also can care for other exotics...such as bearded dragons, birds, hamsters, etc.)

ANN RANLETT - GET YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING DONE HERE!
The irrepressible spirit in this woman continues to come up with new ways to support the sanctuary:
". . .on Etsy, I always have a number of items in my shop with a portion going to A Chance for Bliss (from $1 - $10). Here's the link for those items: http://bit.ly/AnnEtsy Maybe folks can find some holiday gifts there or in Barking Dog Blanket's shop and help Bliss in the process :) I also have stuff on Bonanzle with a donation to ACFB: http://bit.ly/AnnBonanzle "

GARAGE SALE ANYONE ?!
We've been gathering items from gracious donors for a garage sale, BUT, we don't have a location. We've got the stuff and the volunteers, but no place to go. If you know of a place where we can have a garage/yard sale, do drop me a line.

As I mentioned, this is a long newsletter because we have SO MUCH to be grateful for. Thank you for spreading the word and for your generous donations of time and money, but most of all, for your belief and love that together we can all SAVE THE RANCH.

Love and Blessings,
Lydia Patubo
Volunteer/Marketing & Development
A Chance for Bliss

Important Clarifications by Deanna

2009-10-30T03:23:00.000-07:00

There are two areas of concern for some that need and deserve further explanation. Thank you for your patience as we move through this most trying time; we are striving hard to become more efficient with communications. Many people are putting forth real effort on our behalf and we want to honor all who are supporting us.

The Fate of the Animals

It is not true that ALL of the residents face possible euthanasia. This misconception was erroneously conveyed to media contacts by a supporter who has passionately made saving the sanctuary their mission and was unclear on the actual possible outcomes. It was done from the heart and not as intentional hype. We weren't aware of the information being presented until after we got a media response.

Apparently, Woody and I still did not manage to sufficiently convey the actual possibilities to Neda Iranpour. In speaking with Neda, I pointed out that a horse like Jake, a Mustang with bi-lateral stringhalt, would be euthanized by any of the area rescues that we're familiar with. That's what makes us different.

The truth is, should the foreclosure proceed and force us to leave our collective home, the horses could be housed. Over half of them are on neighbors' properties already. They are not in danger. In exploring options, we contacted a large Northern California sanctuary for farm animals and were sadly denied. A good friend has a large parcel in Lincoln that has been generously offered should it be necessary. Splitting the animals up so would create a myriad of challenges, but could be done.

The dogs might be a different story. Of course we would place as many as possible, but realize that many of them have already struggled to find a place to call home for various reasons. I can barely bring myself to begin thinking about the fate of certain pups if forced to move.

Thankfully, and I continually look for new and better ways to communicate our most sincere gratitude, the support and feedback have been nothing short of astounding. It keeps me breathless, the phone calls, e-mails and note cards... there are simply not enough hours in the day right now. Donations are flowing in. The future looks brighter by the day.

The LAST thing we want to do is separate our kids. They have buddies in their respective packs and predictable routines that their contentment is founded upon.

How Will the Money be Used?

The donations are currently accruing in a savings account. We are a 501c3 charity and must conform to the IRS rules and regulations. This is our life's work and we would do nothing to jeopardize the integrity of what has become so much larger than us. We have given all that we personally have but remain true to a life that we know is worth much more than anything else we've known.

In the unlikely event that we are unable to formalize a loan modification, the funds will be used to seek another facility.

In the event that we're able to stay, the money could be applied to the mortgage through a formal lease agreement with the non-profit leasing the property from us. We would also welcome the possibility of the house becoming property of the non-profit. We cannot predict what will happen with the mortgage company. Personally, we have already lost everything. We're upside down in the Sequoia, own a 1977 Ford with a blown head gasket, possibly worse, and my 1977 Celica that has taken a beating between the blind horse being let loose by a well-intended volunteer and escapee goats playing king of the mountain. Still, we're fighting to continue to simply serve the animals.

From My Heart

I am beyond tired. These late nights have proven to be the only real productive computer time since the days are filled with activities and distractions. There is much happening and we're all doing our best to manage the unpredictability.

Bug here is almost completely blind and deaf, which means that touch is important. Otherwise, she's alone in her world. She sleeps on the pillow next to my head at night. My sleeping much less than usual means that she is alone even more. She barks when she has a need ~ normally the usual potty-water-cookie. Lately, however, she barks pretty forcefully even after all three needs have been met. She is seeking that touch. Bug has been on the computer chair beside me tonight so that she isn't sleeping alone. She's wrapped in a towel from the dryer because it takes her a while to warm up after a trip outside. I want her to feel loved even though I am experiencing extremely high demands on my time.

The feedback that and support that we're receiving is beyond anything I could have imagined. This senior, special needs, hospice work strikes a stronger chord than I ever realized. If we could take our message farther and wider, we could expand to help more animals and more people. We are in a prime position to seek help from someone such as Ellen DeGeneres, a true animal advocate. On the "Be Part of the Show" page of her website, there are two options that we would be suited for:

Do You Know Someone Who Could Use Some Cash?

Could You or Someone You Know Use a Big Stimulus?

Please take a moment to write. A visit with Ellen could create amazing possibilities for animals like ours. Woody loves to talk, ESPECIALLY about our kids, and is comfortable in front of an audience ~ who better? Surely she can't ignore a plethora of messages about A Chance for Bliss.

Thank you on behalf of all of us.

Update #3 from Lydia ~ Great Things Are Happening!

2009-10-30T03:10:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone:

By now you have read the email from Dee and Woody that almost $8,000 has been raised to Save the Ranch. This important email also talks about the history of the sanctuary from its inception to the predicament that it is in today. Do take the time to read it. Thank you.

I have received many emails about fundraisers. Do let me know when your event will be and I will be sure to include it in a future update and on Facebook. To help with your fundraising efforts, I will be sending, under separate cover a flyer titled: "At the Heart of the Matter." This flyer has pertinent information, including how to donate. When you receive it, feel free to forward, or copy and distribute.

Thank you everyone for telling your friends, family, co-workers and organizations, and for posting on Facebook and other websites. We are grateful to have all of you on board, and have made many new friends in the process!

Based on the emails I have received, I would like to offer the following thanks and comments:

Do tell your Facebook friends to become a fan of A Chance for Bliss. Simply go to their fan page and click on "Invite People to Join" and follow the instructions from there. I got about 75 of my own friends to join, and it's so easy to do!

Lori Kim Polk
The most amazing news I have received is Lori posted a blog "In the Spirit of Giving' to over 160,000 of her Active Rain (the largest real estate network) friends to help the sanctuary. Do read what wonderful Lori wrote here.

Lynn Willingham
Our one-woman wonder is corralling her friends to come to the sanctuary's monthly open house held the second Saturday of every month. We'll see them on Saturday, November 14th, and we're looking forward to making new friends!

Heather Olson
Our wonderful CAD designer is working on a possible fundraising event in Loomis.

Christina Watts
Thanks to Christina's efforts, she got not one, but two television stations to come out! Channel 13 was here Sunday morning, and the segment aired at 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Channel 10 was at sanctuary Monday morning to do a segment for Hero Central. Christina would also like have a garage sale fundraiser - can anyone help her out?? Wonderful Christina is also a volunteer at A Chance for Bliss.

View the Channel 13 segment.

Tom Wilson
This amazing man is taking the 10 friends x $60 = $600 challenge one step further. Tom will be asking his 10 friends to reach out to 10 more friends. He hopes to raise $6,000.

Emily Jacobson
Our Emily is also a volunteer at A Chance for Bliss: "I have forwarded the email to my friends and family, and several have donated already. My mom (a fellow animal lover) has forwarded the email at her work and has asked for donations, which are matched by their company... I am hoping and praying that we can pull through for Dee, Woody and the animals!

Suzi Johnston
"I'm so happy people are really coming on board. By the way, last night, through tears, I wrote to Oprah Winfrey, Bonnie Hunt & Ellen DeGeneres. OMG, how WONderful would it be to get some PR from ANY of them??????"

Vicki Behringer
"I was on the phone with an attorney who wants to use one of my courtroom art drawings on his new website. He said several artists were just letting him use the images for free, then some took the $150 he was offering and others were having it donated to their favorite charity. I had decided earlier that I wanted to donate my money, with you being the recipient..."

Judi Fibush
"Thanks for the update, Deanna. Neither David nor I are on Facebook... But I love reading all this. I am trying to give you $500 by the end of December."

(Rockin') Ann Ranlett
A friend of mine volunteers at Placer SPCA and she forwarded your initial letter to the volunteers there. She'll also be sending a check for $60."

also from Ann:
Just another thing to add to the fundraising arsenal. Not great in the short term, but eventually it'll help out. I told Dee about it, but don't think everyone knows, so when you have a chance you could spread the word."

"Some time ago, I added ACFB to the list of charities on www.iGive.com People join and specify that a percent of their on-line purchases go to ACFB. Then they make their purchases by going to merchants through iGive's site. Quite a few merchants are part of the system, they each determine the percentage to be donated."

"Each person's account has to reach a $25 minimum before the money is sent to ACFB. I think I have about $13 in my account now, so it takes a while. But obviously larger or more frequent purchase will add up faster."

Again, thank you to everyone who has committed to raising $600.

Facebook Friends: Take the time to send a letter to Ellen Degeneres!First off, become a fan of The Ellen Degeneres Show on Facebook. On her Facebook page, go to "Be on Ellen." Then click on "Do You Know Someone Who Could Use a Financial Stimulus?" Then, fill in the blanks on the page. Write your heart out. Let Ellen know that A Chance for Bliss needs help! Write your heart out, folks !!

I believe I included everyone who had emailed me after Update #2. I sincerely apologize if I left anyone out.

Do keep me posted on any new developments you are involved in, and I will continue to send out regular updates.

Dee and Woody and the animals are so grateful for your continued love and support.
A thousand blessings to everyone.

Lydia Patubo
Volunteer/Development Associate
and Marketing for
A Chance for Bliss

Save the Ranch Update, and a little background… by Woody

2009-10-25T04:43:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful to report that to date we have raised $7,865 toward our goal of $65,000 that is needed to keep the ranch from being foreclosed upon and sold at auction. That’s an impressive 12% in 12 days. There is a lot of action being taken by a great many people, and I, along with Dee and all the sanctuary residents, are so very appreciative for all the support. We feel passionate about what we do, and firmly believe that the existence of the sanctuary serves both the animal residents along with a great many human beings, as well.

For those who do not know why we are in the place we are, and wonder what happened, I thought it important to explain.

When Dee and I started caring for senior animals in the fall of 2000, we never dreamed it would be come so large and serve so many and so varied an array of deserving animals in need. From the beginning, through about the middle of 2008, we had been able to fully fund sanctuary operations almost entirely with personal funds, thanks to a long and very prosperous career in the mortgage and business brokerage industries.

Beginning in 2007, both of these industries began a steep and steady decline, which saw a corresponding drop in our personal income from excellent to meager. During the last year we have not been able to make a property payment, have qualified for food stamps, and found ourselves stuck in a tough financial position. A year without a mortgage payment is unheard of, we realize. Ongoing, though fruitless, communication with the mortgage company, combined with workout package submittals and pursuits of additional income channels kept us hopeful that something would give. Certainly it would be in their best interest to work with us. We plan to be here forever and aren’t looking for a free ride, just some help, such as extending the terms.

We have been able to keep the residents fed and cared for through contributions and five small grants, but regular duties and chores take 12 + hours a day from each of us and leaves precious little time for the important work of PR and fundraising. As our income dropped, so did our ability to have paid help, which is why I spend much of my time here at the ranch. We have a great but small core group of volunteers, without which neither of us would be able to leave the property for any appreciable period of time (hours, not days!)

We have reached a point where our backs are against the wall and we need help in a big way. The sanctuary is our home and encompasses all parts of the property. There is no part of our lives or belongings that does not serve the sanctuary residents. Our home is the animals’ home, and thus all we have belongs to the non-profit we formed in January of 2008 (i.e. as a 501(c) 3 public charity). I mention this since while we are also raising money needed to keep the property, I am also working to present another package to the lender in an effort to modify the current loan so that we do not find ourselves in this position somewhere down the line. Also, I am applying for as many grants as we are qualified to and continue to make requests of anyone I can imagine so we raise enough money to accomplish the primary mission, but also to build a reserve that would handle the mortgage for the next 12 months.

Please realize that it is not the actual house that we’re concerned about. We’ve considered that there may be someone out there willing to donate land or a place… but this lot of land is special, not just for its beauty and ability to calm both human and animals who come here, but because the people who surround us here are truly unbelievable. Our lot is just 2.38 acres (Stop! Try to picture that with 21 horses, 2 steer, etc., etc.), but three generous neighbors allow horses to live on their land, and those neighbors AND MORE are fighting HARD to keep us here. What we have happening right here is truly special and supporters have said that you simply must visit the sanctuary to feel it and understand.

We will do everything we can to save the sanctuary and give thanks in advance that we will be able to continue this work for those we serve.

I’ll close by acknowledging the saints and saviors who have been sending donations, large and small. There is love behind these contributions, people who would love to do what we do but cannot. This sanctuary belongs to all of you, all of US.

THANK YOU! Arbor View Veterinary Clinic, Baker’s Nursery, Dana Allen, Margaret Andrews, Caryne Anglin, Marta Anguiano, Ronda Belka, Tami Benton, Carl Brunberg, Vicki Capstaff, Bernice Chin, Neva Chonin, Sharon Connor, Sue and Doug Cooper, Denise Cutrell, Dana Edlund, Evelina Fata, John Fletcher, Kristy Fox, Agnes Frank, K V Girard, Renne Grace, Natalie Granchukoff, Margaret Grella, Healing Arts Institute, Janet Hudson, Laurie Huff, Felice Hussa, Erika Jewell, Robin Johnson, Juarez-Grix Foundation, Hope Justice, Suzanne Lamberg, Stephanie Lanning, Nancy Laskow, Mary Lawrence, Erin McLaughlin, Lisa Michell, Sally Morgan Welch, Trina Nguyen, Noreen Nys, Barbara Orr, Tiffany Owens, Sharleen Oxendine, Jodie Radakovitz, Kay Rodrick, Lloyd Rose, Melanie Schweitzer, Joan Spurling, Jane St. Croix, Michelle Stevens, Gay Teale, Kristina Towner, Kathleen Wagner, Joelle Yuna, and Donna Yutzy.

Thank you, also, to our steadfast support team ~ family, really. Margaret Andrews, Lydia Patubo, Tom Wilson, Christina Watts, and Becca Davis. Their blood, sweat, tears, and hearts are here.

Baby can't "bear" the thought losing home cooked meals

An Appreciative Update ~ Deanna

2009-10-18T05:14:00.000-07:00

As of Saturday evening, the donations we have received total $3,640. The response to our situation is more powerful and far reaching than we could have imagined.

Our deep and sincere gratitude to Fayann Barclay, Martha Barclay, Chad and Laurie Chase, Laura Daggett, Dianne Dalton, Steven Deeley, Patricia Deeter (Ruud), Chad Evanson, Elizabth Farr, Carol Ann Frei, Stacey Galvin, Eileen Gillis, Sandra Haliburton, Francine Harvey, Nicole Hatley, Loch Henson, Nancy Jensen, Kathleen Kerr Coad, Linda Klinger, Emily Kruger, Avinal Maharaj, Briana Martin, Erin McLaughlin, Melody Lea Lamb's Art, Nancy Morrison, Lily Nguyen, Victoria Perizzolo, Ann Ranlett, Teresa Reichart, Sharon Roseme, Veronica Selco, Ann & Fred Smallwood, D.R. and Julie Ann Stringham, Julie Swain, Judy Swauger, Eileen Thorton, Jeannette Williams, Mary Williams and last, but certainly not least, Lynn Willingham.

Before I go on, it must be said that we have the absolutely best neighbors possible. We tell this to visitors regularly, but have not acknowledged these friends in writing as we should. Not only do they lend us use of their land, they tolerate strange noises, dust, flies, parades of animal accupressure students and bustling second Saturday tours, escaping four-legged visitors at any given time of day or night and constant requests for baby-sitting or equipment repairs... they are actually fighting hard to keep us here. Above all else, I find this supremely humbling.

Ann and Fred Smallwood, along with Danny, Jo and DJ Turner, not only provide pasture for three horses, they feed them, groom them and love them. On top of that, their garden has taken every bit of manure and wasted hay that we have produced for going on three years. We dump, they drag and the vegetables grow. And should you visit, you would see that there is virtually no smell and no flies in this area (the flies prefer the horses).

Ron, Marianne and Jessica Stovall's pasture has housed sanctuary horses for three years, as well. Big and mostly flat, our younger herd can get a real steam up flying around over there, bucking and snorting and acting like horses. They put up with my mucking into the darkness and the dogs that follow Woody and I wherever we go, teasing poor Abigail with their freedom.

Steve Geraldsen deserves a blog or book all his own. Not only can he SERIOUSLY fix ANYTHING, he does so with grace and tutorials. At this time, he is allowing Ferdinand and Manny to run free on half of his parcel, as they enjoy head-butting the old boats that will some day soon be disassembled anyway. A real playground for bored steers.

In addition, we owe much to Nippy & Jim Feltl, Jean & Jayme Feltl, Cathy & Sam Norris, Laurie, Chad, Cody & Catie Chase, Dawn & Dale Sloss, and Vicky & Miguel Rivera (Homer's other home).

Yes, Willow Brook Lane is very good to us.

Moving Forward

We realize that the financial goal is lofty, so we are attempting other angles, as well, in hopes that our lender will work with us with less cash-in-hand. We've been gathering testimonial letters to illustrate that this little ranch means a great deal to many. The letters are coming in and they are powerful.

As we know more, we will share our progress.

In the meantime, we're focused on illustrating the abundant good works that take place here. Admittedly, it will be tough to convey the feeling that is so much a part of the ranch. This is a place of healing ~ mutual healing. We help the animals and they, in return, help all of us.

I tried my hand at Windows Movie Maker... I've taken lots of video that needs editing and the files must first be converted, so for now, a slideshow. I started a YouTube account for the sanctuary. Wish me abundant time to share the goodness and goofiness of our critters.

Thank you for supporting us in our endeavor to follow our hearts. There are so many more that could be served.

Namaste

An All Out Effort

2009-10-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

I have faith. The people who surround us and KNOW who we are and what we do could not be more supportive. The last thing I want to do is call upon our existing circle for more. We need media attention. Please help us tell our story.

What we do is unique. It feels so natural to Woody and I, but the feedback can be breath-taking. I look for the beauty everywhere I can... Had we not experienced this financial downfall, we would not have opened our place to the public. Through that door have walked an incredible number of empathetic, caring and fascinating friends.

On Labor Day, we were visited by several veterinarians from across the country who were attending the National Hospice Symposium at UC Davis and discovered us through Tom Wilson's presentation. I would never have imagined such interest and their insights and comments were humbling. It served to drive our passion to do more.

Donations have kept the animals cared for and Woody has strived in several arenas to get our personal income flowing again. The sanctuary has not paid for the mortgage or electricity, etc., as many/most organizations do. Everything you've given us has gone to them. However, there is nothing here that is not utilized for their care. Further, as supporters can attest, the days here are laborous and long since we have lost our ability to support paid help (that had come from us, not donations).

There is another sanctuary that does work very similar to ours ~ roughly 80 animals, mostly horses and dogs. After an appearance on The Today Show, their annual donations reached 1M. Our ultimate vision is to create the Shriner's of the animal world, but the world needs to know what's already happening here. Animals transform here ~ they blossom and thrive before they leave. This is about the animals. Their stories need to be told, so that people can understand. We do this for them.

If you can contribute a note or story about one of our kids, please send it to deanna@achanceforbliss.com and I will post them to the blog. There are 40 kids who have passed on and I have not made time to post to the website, but EACH of them has a special story. They are why we have given everything we have.

In the meatime, here are a couple of special stories that did get some web time.

DeeDee ~ We would choose not to subject our kids to chemotherapy again. DeeDee was our teacher in so many ways.

Trixie

Note: I am overwhelmed by the efforts of our friends on our behalf and blown-away by the creativity. We've submitted our outline to Ellen and others are reaching out to those they know. A Chance for Bliss has a life of its own... Woody and I simply work here. Thank you for your support in allowing us to serve these special creatures.

If I am slow in responding, it is due to the tremendous outpouring ~ AND the mess outside that the weather has caused.

More Changes ~ by Deanna

2009-10-13T00:56:00.000-07:00

Last week was crazy for many reasons, but of note were the passings of the sweet Miss Piggy and our own "Gruru", Grace ("Face like a Teddy" her Poppa would sing to her.) The goodbyes are not easy and we are grateful for the time we got to spend with each of these little ladies.

Ah, Mud in the August Heat

Breakfast on September 6

Grace with Tamara in April

Grace with Vince
On a lighter note, I'll introduce our newest resident, Paige, who arrived last Wednesday and until now has been a "house-pig." Paige is not so sure about the other piggies ("What are THOSE!?), but is a sweetheart with people. Today Paige discovered a drippy faucet and made good use of it.

Thanks for stopping by...

Homer by Ann Ranlett

2009-10-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

On September 13, Ann Ranlett surprised us by visiting our booth at Woofstock bearing a remarkable gift ~ the first print of her freshly completed rendition of our one and only Homer.

This beautiful piece can be purchased through Ann's website and you can see the reference photo on Ann's blog.

Ann, we're grateful that you saw Homer's true inner beauty! :o)

A true gift ~ Windsong ~

2009-10-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

One recent Friday, I received a call at work from Deanna, “Are you sitting down?” She was excited to tell me about a horse she had heard about that was in need of a new home. Windsong was her name and her owner had recently died of cancer. Well, there was no need for a long discussion, we had to get her! So Dee and Becca went and picked her up and brought her home. When I met her, to say I was in awe is not doing Windsong justice. She is beautiful! A white mare, half quarter horse, half thoroughbred, and stunning mover! And she was going to be my horse. A gift like no other. The generosity of Deanna and Woody humbles me every day.

Windsong appears to have Entropian in her left eye. Entropion is a condition of the eye that causes the eyelids to fold inward and press against their cornea. Entropion may be found in one or both of the horse's eyes, leading to extreme irritation and “runny,” watery eyes, similar to conjunctivitis. Apparently, she had past surgery to correct this before, but it has come back. We will be having an animal eye specialist check Windsong. We expect that she will have to have surgery to correct this or possibly have to remove her eye (we are praying this doesn’t happen). Regardless, we will do what we can to see that Windsong has long and happy life with us.

I have spoken with Domenic, the wonderful brother of Windsong’s previous owner, and we plan to keep in contact and we will keep him up to date on Windsong’s progress. I asked Domenic to give me some history on Windsong and her owner as I believe the back story is important to understand the beauty of this horse. He relayed the following to me:

Windsong was originally rescued by my sister Marie in 1996. She was with a group of neglected horses that someone became aware of, and this person told my sister that there was a unique horse in the group that she might be interested in, and that turned out to be Windsong. She was about 150 pounds under weight, so my sister took care of her, and then sent her for some training by a local man. He liked Windsong so much that he offered Marie any horse that he owned as a trade, but Marie refused. She knew that Windsong was a unique mover.

My sister and I grew up in San Francisco in the 1950s, yet we both always shared a love for horses. We used to rent them at various stables back then. Marie got married in 1974, then two years later she had her first horse. In 1978 Marie and her husband moved to Orangevale, where Marie later had a few other horses, and she got involved in jumping and dressage. In recent years Marie had mainly enjoyed trail riding, and we often when riding together, except for the past couple of years when her health problems started.

In honor of Marie, we have decided not to change Windsong’s name. Typically, when we get new animals we change their name (new life – new name!) but since Windsong did not come from neglect, abuse or abandonment, there is no need.

Windsong has become alpha mare of our younger herd. She has established herself as protector and I find her watching the outskirts of the pasture while the other horses are eating. She has found a steady friend in Doc, and they often share flakes of hay. She is very smart and attentive, I am often amazed how busy she keeps herself keeping watch over her herd. Oh, and she loves apples and carrots! Of course, I spoil her – she deserves it, don’t you think?

Thank you Domenic for your gift to us. I am sure Marie is looking down upon us and we will do right by her.

Look for more updates on Windsong as we hit the trails together.

Wisdom from Tom Wilson, PhD

2009-10-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Part 1 of a presentation delivered at the Second International Symposium on Veterinary Hospice Care, University of California, Davis, on September 6, 2009

The title of my presentation today is Dancing to the End of the Song: Reflections on Animal Hospice. We're all here at this most important symposium on animal hospice because we share a common aspiration to bring more dignity, more loving care, and the very best approaches to assisting our animal companions in the final days, weeks, or months of their life's journeys. We're here to reflect on the state of animal hospice today, to explore what works and does not, and to sculpt new ideas, new understandings, and a vision of how to make hospice reflect our highest values of compassionate care for animals. We're here to reflect on how to make animal hospice better.

So this morning I'd like to share with you some of my reflections on animal hospice through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). I've had the honor of working with critically ill, aging, and dying animals for over ten years in my role as student, teacher, and practitioner of TCM and other Asian and Western therapies. The modalities I work with include Acupressure, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tui Na (Chinese Massage), Thai Belly Massage, Zen Shiatsu, Qigong, Chi Ne Tsang, Polarity, and CranioSacral. With the exception of the Western newcomer, CranioSacral, these ancient healing modalities have been the cornerstones of health and wellness for centuries in many countries around the world.

All of the modalities I work with involve the compassionate touch of the practitioner's hands to help regulate and balance Qi, that invisible life-force energy that flows through every thing in the universe. Working with Qi, TCM allows us to address the all aspects of a whole being-physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual-in gentle, non-invasive ways. With its focus on the whole being, TCM has shown me ways to assist animals and their guardians in all stages of critical illness, aging, and hospice care. Thus, the intent of the first part of my presentation title, "Dancing to the End of the Song": I'm saying that when done well, animal hospice can be, in the midst of inevitable grief, a celebration of life and the passage of death. When there is no hope of a physical recovery, our animals still have a journey to make. They still have mental, emotional, and spiritual journeys to make as conscious beings moving toward physical death. There needs to be more awareness in hospice care of the conscious lives of animals. Accordingly, my reflections on animal hospice today center on ways in which we can enrich the last stages of a life's journey for the animals and their guardians.

It has been my experience that when fear and powerlessness are replaced by a compassionate continuity of care that involves the animal, its guardian and family members, there is a strength that emerges. When death is accepted as an inevitable and meaningful part of a life and a soul's journey, coupled with a courageous and loving commitment to dance to the end of the song with our animals, there may be sorrow but there will not be regret for how we walked every step of the way together with them.

If I have a thesis to put forward on animal hospice that encompasses all of the individual reflections contained in this presentation, it is this: Like the journey of a thousand miles that begins with one step, I believe it is time that we retrace all of our steps and reevaluate all of our models of animal health care and wellness from birth to death. There are culturally accepted tenets of our health care models that need radical reevaluation, most notably our beliefs about nutrition, immunizations, and euthanasia. The number of animals entering hospice with a panoply of advanced degenerative diseases as early as four or five years should set off alarms and a corresponding call to right action.

We need a wellness model that brings the best of Eastern and Western medical approaches together. As the line up of presentations here at this International Symposium clearly reflects, a movement toward that synthesis of East and West has been taking place and is making great strides. The way to get there successfully is to view ourselves and all other creatures as a community of conscious beings, a family that supports each other. If we can unite the caduceus with the taiji (yin-yang) symbol-that is, the synthesis of Eastern and Western healing traditions into an integrated medical model, we will bring the invaluable gifts of both traditions to our animal friends.

A Commitment to Altruism

For the good of the animal community, we will need a new commitment to altruism. We need to work together for the good of animals and not let animal health care go the way of the current debate (or is it debacle?) over health care reform in this country, which is shamefully entrenched in politics, money, power, and turf. In a recent article, Deepak Chopra urges us to shift our focus from the trappings of our health care systems to the healing system inside our own bodies.[1] Accordingly, we need to defend, strengthen, and preserve the healing systems inside our animals' bodies. Our health care systems need to align themselves with the natural healing processes of the body itself. The key is to remove the toxins and to strengthen natural immunity. We need to drop old paradigms such as the war on cancer, which has led to a lesser of two evils approach that ultimately weakens the immune system.

Animal hospice care needs to embrace a wellness model, not just a pathology model and end of life strategy. Just as with our American health care system that is breaking under the weight of diseases engendered by poor lifestyle choices, our animal hospice work is witnessing a staggering number of our animal friends leaving us at four and five years old with cancers and other debilitating diseases that began escalating in the middle of the 20th Century. If we don't address wellness strategies from the cradle forward, we are going to watch the bodies piling up in hospice at an ever alarming rate.

Healing Arts Institute & A Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary

To set the stage for my reflections on integrating the best of allopathic and natural modalities of animal hospice, I want to share with you how the evolution of my animal hospice work has expanded and deepened in ways I previously only imagined. This deepening is the result of my affiliation with the Healing Arts Institute in Citrus Heights, California, and A Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary in Penryn, California, where we now teach our 100 Hour Animal Acupressure Certification Program. It started simply when I met Tamara Samsa, Associate Director of the Healing Arts Institute, in a Thai Belly Massage class in Berkeley in 2008. Tamara asked me if I would stop in Sacramento on my way back to Nevada City and work with her two rescued dogs with critical illnesses, Teddy and Andrew. Tamara's remarkable and tireless devotion to finding and coordinating resources for critically ill and hospice animals (I call her "The Rainmaker") led us naturally to launching the Animal Acupressure Certification Program in January of 2009.

I have taught in other animal acupressure schools, including my own, but the nature and scope of the Healing Arts Institute's animal acupressure program expanded exponentially when Tamara, Lydia Patubo, and I met Deanna and David Woody Bartley, the founders of A Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary. Dee and Woody invited us to teach our classes at their sanctuary. Think of it: our classroom blossomed from a single classroom into a six-acre animal sanctuary with 85 animals, including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, horses, steers, goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, geese, ducks, and, yes, even chickens. (One of our students, Tana, told me firmly that chickens respond amazingly to energy work.)

A Chance for Bliss has anchored our scholastic work in the real world, in real time, with the critically ill, aging, and hospice needs of so many of the residents of the sanctuary. A Chance for Bliss has become our classroom and hands-on animal clinic. Our affiliation with A Chance for Bliss gives our students a place to learn and practice their craft with animals with myriad health and hospice needs. In return, the 20+ students enrolled in our program assist with the health and hospice needs of all of the sanctuary animals.

This synergistic relationship of an animal sanctuary and animal acupressure program has created a very real sense of community for all involved, humans and animals. A Chance for Bliss Animal Sanctuary has become a second home for many of us in the program. That is because Dee and Woody have generously invited us into their family, and the family keeps expanding. The nature and scope of our work keeps revealing ways in which TCM can effectively address aspects of animal care that include but go beyond the physical.

Our animals are on courageous life journeys in which their original natures and ways of being in the world have been radically and often tragically altered to human purposes. Just like us, animals have mental confusion; they get lost. Just like us, they have emotional and spiritual needs. Our work attends to all aspects of their lives, not only the physical. In ancient healing traditions, the totality of a being was recognized by what is now referred to as the Mind-Body. Modern allopathic medicine is making strides in understanding the role the Mind-Body plays in health.

A Kinship With All Life

Perhaps most important, what continues to evolve from this sense of community at A Chance for Bliss is, to use John Allen Boone’s words, “a kinship with all life.” In essence, A Chance for Bliss has subtly enfolded or transported us into the force field of a community of animals, into a sense of oneness and kinship where words like “them” and “us” are meaningless. The animals have invited us in, and we are changed forever. That sense of kinship cannot be underestimated in its contribution to the healing effects of our acupressure work, and to raising the spirits of the animals in hospice situations. Listen to these words from Boone’s Kinship With All Life: “[P]eople of certain ancient times appear to have been great virtuosos in the art of living, particularly skilled in the delicate science of being in right relations with everything, including animals.…Life to these ancients was an all-inclusive kinship in which nothing was meaningless, nothing unimportant, and from which nothing could be excluded….Every living thing was seen as a partner in a universal enterprise….Everything lived for everything else, at all times and under all circumstances.”

When you work closely and regularly with animals at the sanctuary, you realize the truth of Boone’s words because the animals invite you into that kinship. The animals have known this kinship all along. It’s there always. They know why we are at the sanctuary, what we are doing, and they let us know with no uncertainty that they appreciate that we are there for them. What you learn is that healing is inseparable from and enhanced by your kinship with them.

Animals that might have died alone or been euthanized before their time come to A Chance for Bliss and enter a community of animals that invariably raises their spirits and their wills to live. An ancient Nigerian proverb says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” It might also be said that the village and its kinship with all life remains invaluable in the time of dying. The average tenure of the animals at A Chance for Bliss is 15 to 18 months. While that may seem either a short or long time for hospice care, depending on your experience, the heart of the matter is that our concern is with the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the animals in the present moment. We do not worry about or try to predict how much time one of our animals might have left. Our touchstone resides in the ancient Taoist concept of Shen, or spirit. We look for that luminous radiance of spirit that can shine brightly through the eyes of a failing body. As Bernie Segal, the eminent cancer physician from Connecticut, has said—and I’m roughly paraphrasing here—that when dealing with the spirit, all bets are off on how long one with a terminal illness will stay with us.

In this spirit of kinship with all life, from this place of a deepened sense of animals as conscious beings, my central reflection on improving animal hospice is that we retrace all of our steps and reevaluate our models for delivering animal health and wellness from birth to death. We need a fresh perspective in which hospice is not simply an end of life form of triage, but part of a holistic system of wellness from cradle to grave that includes the vital component of spirits in transition. In the process of reevaluation, I believe that we must reawaken within ourselves our kinship will all life and see our animal brothers and sisters as conscious beings that need us to remain cognizant of our kinship with them in the death and dying process. They have been our loyal companions throughout their lives, and in hospice they need to know that we will dance to the end of the song with them. We want them to experience the highest quality of love, care, and quality of life on their journeys, including a dignified and gentle passage from this world.

[1] Deepak Chopra. "Do You Want a Health Care System or a Healing System?" SF Gate (San Francisco Chronicle), Monday, August 31, 2009. www.sfgate.com/columns/chopra

* * * * * * *

Part 2 of this presentation will focus on animal food & nutrition, vaccinations, euthanasia & natural death, integrative medicine, and a TCM approach to animal hospice

Anniversary ~ by Deanna

2009-09-30T23:32:00.000-07:00

One year ago tonight, Buddy and I slept in our front paddock with a horse who really needed a friend. A horse who has been abandoned in an apple orchard near the Stockton airport for roughly a month before Will Martin took it upon himself to call someone. It was our second wedding anniversary, but I couldn't leave him alone. I wanted him to KNOW someone cared.

On September 28, 2008, Mom and I followed Will to pick up the grey horse. We found deep within the orchard, terribly thin and foundered. There was no way to get the horse to the trailer, so I took the trailer to the horse, through a narrow row of trees. Mom and Will waited with him and he grew excited as the trailer approached. Help had arrived. He enthusiastically limped in.

Buddy Helps Us Look
Pushing Our Way Through
LeRoi spent the first two nights at Loomis Basin, receiving treatment for choke, among other things. Not surprisingly, the doctors recommended euthanasia. Jane St. Croix checked in on the sweet soul and saw that he very much wanted to recover. The clear message was "I can do this." He was not a terribly old horse, so we set up a M*A*S*H type unit for him at home and gave it our all.

Margaret Andrews with LeRoi
On his second day at the ranch, Rachel Chao, our barefoot trimmer, took her time removing those extremely overgrown toes. She took the right toe off with a hacksaw, which was a laborious project, and the blade kept getting stuck in the saddle pad he stood on for comfort. For the left toe, we moved to the efficient reciprocating saw, which worked beautifully. I just pray that no one reading this ever find themselves in a position requiring the use of a sawz-all on a horse hoof.

Unimaginable
Progress
Standing Patiently, Even Through Power Tools
Trying Out His New Feet
On the morning of October 3, LeRoi collapsed and died. The effects of such long term neglect were insurmountable. I was crushed. Later that day, insight from Jane revealed that he was confused and didn't understand that he had died. He really wanted to make it.

I couldn't write about LeRoi at the time. It was emotional, exhausting and consuming. There was no way to encapsulate. There were so many intricate details. Then time slips away and other things capture your attention. But today seemed like the appropriate day to deliver the "Reader's Digest Condensed Version" of our journey with LeRoi.

I think of him each time I notice the scratches down the side of Woody's Sequoia. We tried, sweet boy.

International Animal Hospice Symposium

2009-08-31T15:35:00.000-07:00

Sanctuary champion, Healing Arts Institute instructor, and good friend, Dr. Tom Wilson, PhD, will be speaking at the upcoming three-day International Animal Hospice Symposium at UC Davis. We couldn't be more proud of our affiliation with such an extraordionary healer and visionary, shown here working with Ranger.

Tom is a certified Jin Shin Jyutsu(R) Practitioner and Self-Help Instructor, who maintains a private practice for humans and animals in the Energy Healing Arts of Acupressure, Jin Shin Jyutsu, CranioSacral, Polarity, Tui Na, Zen Shiatsu, Thai Massage, Reiki, & Somatic Emotional Experiencing in Nevada City, CA. He is a CranioSacral practitioner and teacher certified by the Heartwood Institute in Garberville, CA. He is a Reiki Master, certified by the Sai Reiki Center of Pune, India, and the co-creator of the Reiki Distance Healing Circle. Tom is the director of the Animal Acupressure Training Academy, Nevada City, California.
Further, Tom has broken through barriers with Chico, our epileptic Chihuahua who was once so nervous that the excitement of a visitor would trigger a seizure. Chico now interacts with visitors regularly and adores his Uncle Tom.

More on the Symposium (from www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu)

End-of-life care issues, now being hotly debated in relation to human health policy, are also of growing interest in veterinary medicine and will be addressed Sept. 5-7 at the University of California, Davis, during the International Symposium on Veterinary Hospice Care.

The symposium, coordinated by The Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets and the Assisi International Animal Institute, is designed for veterinary professionals and students, grief counselors, animal shelter personnel and the general public. It will be held in the veterinary school's Gladys Valley Hall, northeast of the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

Veterinary hospice care addresses the needs of people who want to care for their dying animals at home, under the guidance of veterinarians and a qualified, professional staff.

The three-day symposium will feature speakers from a variety of specialties discussing pet hospice and euthanasia, stages of dying, alternative therapies, pain management, the role of veterinary technicians and pet sitters in hospice care, and dealing with client grief.

Joining a panel to provide closing comments will be Donald Klingborg, associate dean for UC Davis Veterinary Extension who was previously in private veterinary practice.

An optional field trip to BrightHaven, a holistic animal sanctuary and pet hospice in Santa Rosa, will precede the symposium on Friday, Sept. 4.

Symposium information and registration are available online at .

Media contact(s):
* Kathryn Marocchino, Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets, (707) 557-8595, marocchino@sbcglobal.net
* Pat Bailey, UC Davis News Service, (530) 752-9843, pjbailey@ucdavis.edu

The Ride of a Lifetime! ~ by Deanna

2009-08-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

We had a rare treat last night ~ a trail ride involving four key members of the sanctuary. Woody has discovered an affinity for Ms. Cuervo and she appears to really enjoy being his girl. Once you ride a gaited horse, your life is forever changed! Zulu and Margaret got some trail time in before participating in their first ACTHA ride this weekend (we're on a fact-finding mission for our October 10th fundraiser!) Our new RM, Deborah Jacobs (DJ), is seeking her equine soul-mate and took Eddie out for a try, which they both enjoyed thoroughly. Lastly, I was absolutely thrilled to take Stevie out for the first time.

My intuition told me that Stevie had been a riding horse before his blindness set in, but we know nothing about his past. Fitted with a just a bareback pad and a hackamore for his comfort, we set out to Traylor Ranch. Our collective hunch was that the sweet boy would enjoy and outing and he certainly did. It took him a bit to get familiar with his riding partners, but soon was confident enough to give them clear "back off" signals and stride out ahead of them. Seeing him use all of his senses to excitedly explore his surroundings was one of the most uplifting equine experiences of my life. He was clearly having a ball! He trusted my guidance and did everything but break into a lope, even crossing the wooden bridge.

One of the most endearing things about Stevie is the way his bottom lip hangs a bit and moves quite liberally as he gains speed.

[My editing is obvious, but we're both looking at the camera!]
He is such a beautiful, well-built and confident boy. I couldn't be more of proud of Stevie and look forward to enriching his experience here with more adventures.

Next time you visit, call his name and he will answer with a nicker. He loves people!

Ann Ran Rocks!

2009-08-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

Check out Ann's most recent blog entry...

Happy Anniversary

2009-08-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY On Tuesday, July twenty-eighth; Easter Seals Superior California, Help To Recovery Program celebrated a one year anniversary of a partnership with A Chance For Bliss.
We welcomed a pretty white kitten named Casper and a brown Boston Terrier puppy named Joy. They will blend in well with all the ubiquitous Boston terriers in the sanctuary!
Woody & Deanna treated us to cupcakes- they sure were good! Shaun must have eaten at least six! Altogether, it was a good day.
Animals & people have come & gone this last year; however, we that are here still persevere! I’ve said it once; and I’ll say it again: One of the main reasons we love coming to the animal sanctuary is that the animals don’t see our disabilities.

-Lisa & Hector
Easter Seals, Superior California
Help to Recovery program

If a Picture Paints 1,000 Words... by Deanna

2009-07-20T23:42:00.000-07:00

...then this should constitute a novel!

A photographic tour of the sanctuary, featuring many of our residents as they hung out today.

Thank you, Aunt Jodie, for painting the horses' names on their fly masks!

An Angel Has Lit ~ by Deanna

2009-07-20T16:52:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, we traveled to San Francisco for two huge reasons.

First, we received a third incredibly generous donation of dog food from Freshpet. This is an extremely high quality product and our dogs all love it. It is made from human quality ingredients, just like when we cook here for them, and is sold in the refrigerated section. I urge you to try their product. Locally, it can be purchased at Raley's. Incredibly, the warehouse is quite close to Linda's house (Wonder Dog Rescue), which is perfect, because;

Second, we welcomed home a grateful and loving older girl appropriately dubbed "Angel" by the dedicated members of Wonder Dog who fostered and cared for her since her release from the Martinez shelter on Saturday, July 11. Visit their site for additional information here.
Linda shared that Angel was one of the worst cases of neglect she'd ever witnessed and as her website details, Angel preferred to drink urine and dug frantically in the dirt for worms to eat. Heartbreaking.Angel seems to be completely contented here and is fascinated by the bunnies and chickens. She fit into the pack perfectly and is always ready for a cookie or a tummy rub. She smiles. She sleeps with me. She seems to be quickly returning vibrancy and we are so thrilled to be a part of her healing journey.Whatever she had been through may have broken her body down, but her BT spirit is completely in tact.

I look forward to posting photos soon revealing a body reflecting the radiance of her spirit. The food here is good and she is getting plenty of it now.Loving up kids like Angel is absolutely the best part about what we do here. I love her so much already!

WAW! ~ by Deanna

2009-06-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

What a Week!

Sometimes I forget that we're no longer living the quiet life that Woody and I once knew. I tend to view the days and weeks in terms of regular ranch chores, which account for roughly 15 hours of labor daily. Feeding, cleaning, shopping... It keeps us both (plus Margaret, Rachel, Becca, Jodie, Lewey & Jenna, Laurie...) plenty busy.

Gratefully, the sanctuary is growing, but at times I don't know how to plan and manage my time and energies the best. Admittedly, I get overwhelmed, and when I do, I tend to pick up a muck fork instead of the telephone. Mucking can be very zen and helps to quiet my mind, even though there are many other matters that demand my attention, as well. If you've not heard from me on some issue, please send another e-mail or leave another message. I'm doing the best I can in any given moment and the immediate care of the animals that live here tends to reign dominant.

Jan Harper Administers Another Round of Cold Laser Therapy
Jan is Truly an Earth-Bound Angel ~ She Drives from Volcano
Within the last seven days, we orchestrated a benefit concert (photos), welcomed a blind horse, introduced our pups to new donated Drinkwell (filtered!) fountains (if that sounds easy, remember that one-third are blind!), breezed through the Western States Horse Expo (connecting and gathering information), attended a planning meeting for an upcoming barn raising, conducted four sanctuary tours, investigated new feed sources, hosted a dinner party for Woody's sister and her family (visting from VA), and began offsite training for Handsome and Dusty.

We could NOT do this without support. There are a huge number of acknowledgements that we need to make for the No Bozoz Benefit alone.

This week has brought a large number of deliveries - replacement muck fork heads, the Drinkwell fountains, Purina's Give-a-Bowl promotional materials, and books for the monthly sale...

At this very moment, I am blown away by a package that just arrived from Morgantown, West Virginia. I have told many people how incredibly honored we are to have a number of Hunter originals in our home, both Susan Hunter and the late George Hunter. Woody shared that Susan was sending some prints for our fundraising efforts, but what arrived today had me literally shaking. I've yet to take full inventory, but the box that arrived was filled with MANY, MANY originals. I am flabberghasted. The line from Wayne's World fills my head ~ "We are not worthy!" Please visit Susan's site and let her know how awesome she is!

These pieces are so beautiul (and NOT all Bostons!) We'll let the Board decide how to best utilize this most generous donation.

I suppose that makes it divine timing that I need to run to Ross Hay Ranch for a ton of alfalfa cubes before they close... Nothing like old fashioned physical labor to get me out of my head. I hope you each can feel the love we have for the support you give. Without such, where would Stevie, Ruth, Murphy, Faith & Justice, Otis, Bug, Red (etc., etc.) be?