If you could spend one day observing any wild animal in its natural habitat, what would you choose?

Sounds like the perfect job description for a turkey vulture. Most people think turkey vultures are disgusting. After working with them for a year, I happen to think they're one of nature's greatest creations. If you've ever wondered why you rarely see dead animals lying around for long, you can thank turkey vultures. Their stomach acid is so powerful it destroys bacteria that would make most animals seriously ill. They're nature's cleanup crew, helping stop disease before it has a chance to spread. Their bald heads have a purpose too. Without feathers covering their face, they can feed inside a carcass and stay much cleaner than they would otherwise. Not every animal is beautiful in the traditional sense. But every animal has a purpose. Turkey vultures just happen to have one of the messiest and one of the most important. What's your favorite misunderstood animal?

Working with animals isn't easy. As a wildlife rehabilitator, you have about a 50% chance of successfully raising an orphaned animal to the point it can be released. Every baby you take in comes with hope and the risk of heartbreak. Then, if you succeed, another kind of heartbreak begins. You open that carrier, watch them disappear into the wild, and wonder, "Did I do enough? Will they make it?" I'm only a parent of paws, but if you've ever raised children or become an empty nester, you probably understand that feeling. You do everything you can, then you have to let them go and trust they'll find their own way. For five years I rehabilitated wildlife for All Things Wild while also serving as their grant writer. Finding money for animals is never easy. People often think nonprofits simply apply for grants and the money appears. Most grants are small, and fundraisers and community support are what keep the doors open. Before wildlife rehabilitation, I founded a feral cat rescue, created the 501(c)(3), raised the money, trapped cats, organized adoptions, and helped more than 500 cats. I've lived this work from every angle. That's why I know it takes a community to save animals. So why do I do what I do? Because I can't imagine my life without animals. And I can't imagine reaching the end of my life knowing I didn't fully use the gifts GOD gave me to help them. That's why I created Empowering Animals. I know I can't save them all. But together, we can save far more than any of us could alone.

I got my skunk fix today from Helen at All Things Wild. This video features two sets of three orphaned skunks getting ready for their final journey back to the wild. Watching these little creatures stomping around like the little stinkers they are always makes me smile. I miss working with these babies. They fill me with such joy. Enjoy the entertainment. 🦨💚

This morning I woke up to no electricity. This meant the routine I was used to, was not going to happen. My neighbor texted asking if my power was out, followed by, did I want to go get coffee and breakfast. This was such a spontaneous move for me because I had my scheduled service at ANT today and again, I am a routine person. But, throwing caution to the wind, I went and enjoyed a delicious breakfast with a friend before ANT. After spending time with the animals, I stopped by Trader Joe's for a food haul. Outside, a Native American gentleman with his little Chihuahua, was playing a drum and singing. My Soul has always felt a pull towards the Native American culture and the way they respect and love the earth and animals. Somewhere in my DNA I must have their blood flowing through my life energy. While I was in TJ's, I purchased some water, jerky and dog snacks for them, assuming they needed help. I confirmed they needed help before I offered my gift and ended up having a really interesting conversation before I headed on my way. Such a blessing to listen to this wise elder and meet his beautiful companion, Honey-Love. Next stop... the tea shop to refill two of my favorite addictions. ☕😊 While I was waiting for my turn, I wandered over to admire the teacups, as I always do. One had a snarky little saying that made me laugh out loud. Because I didn't have my glasses on, I thought it was a squirrel running with a butterfly net. But with a closer look, I saw that it was a skunk! I was so thrilled. There was no decision to be made. It was mine! 😂 Clearly, I don't need another teacup, but this one is definitely going to become my favorite. Even though my whole day has been flipped upside down, and I'm just now sitting down to my "morning" routine, this little change of plans has brought so many unexpected and wonderful moments today. Hope you're all having a beautiful weekend too. 💚☕🦨