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

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. 💚☕🦨

One of the things I love most is watching people come together and create something none of us could have created alone. I'm a member of a painting community called Painting for Drawing Dropouts, led by @Michelle Cyr who is also a member here in Empowering Animals. Recently, Michelle shared a story about an event she participated in where she invited 50 people to help paint a picture. Most told her they were worried they would ruin it. The only person who wasn't afraid was a four-year-old who simply picked up a brush and painted with abandon. She stated she wished she could give us all permission to paint like a four-year-old. To create without fear, to have fun and to simply enjoy the process. Since I've been experimenting with writing songs, I took what Michelle shared, combined it with what I've learned from her and my experiences in the group, and wrote a song inspired by her message. Then the magic of community took over. Michelle asked for a graphic to go with the song, and Kate Mack took that a step further and created a music video instead. What started as a simple conversation became something meaningful, fun, and beautiful because multiple people brought their talents and passion together. And if you watch closely, you might recognize a few familiar faces. Michelle definitely made it into the video, and I'm pretty sure I did too. Those glasses are a dead giveaway. Once I saw them, I just KNEW that was me. 😁 I've watched this video more times than I can count. Not only is it beautifully done and a lot of fun, but it also reminds me of the mission behind Empowering Animals. Animals are why we're here. But it takes people willing to share their gifts, talents, and hearts to create something beautiful. When we come together with a shared purpose, amazing things happen. Enjoy the video. ❤️🐾

What animal made a rare genetic muscle condition called myotonia congenita desirable to breeders? No Googling! 😄 Drop your guess below and I'll post the answer later today. 🐾