If Only We Were 18!

At 09:11 PM 1/7/03 Carole wrote Howie:

 

Dear Howie,  I am curious how you will do on a two day recharge.  I used to have sex every day, three weeks out of the month.  When I was married, sometimes two or three times a day.  I didn't think I could live without it.  I think I like it better this way, because it gives me time to really look forward to it and then fully enjoy the moment (as you may have gathered).

 

I hope your leg is better and your cold evaded.  I would prefer to eat last.  If I could only do one, it would not involve broccoli and cauliflower.  I can always eat in the car later.  Thanks for the offer to keep frozen meals at your place.  I am so accustomed to dragging food around with me that it is no bother.  I might keep one there, just in case I forget some day or stay later than planned.

 

I started walking today and must have completely become entranced with the experience as I looked at my watch three and a half hours later and "woke up".  Does this count as meditation?  I used to be so passionate.  My feelings were so intense that I felt almost manic-depressive.   The lows were worth it because the highs were so euphoric.

 

Somewhere along the line I said to myself that I wasn't going to feel any more.  I reasoned that it wasn't safe to feel any more and that if I allowed myself to do so, it would surely kill me.  Amazing, the stupid stuff I tell myself and then believe!  There was no huge epiphany today but seeing what I have done and how bizarre it is to believe it was eye opening.

 

Using the line of thought from the book you loaned me, I said, "If I allow myself to feel and get hurt, what harm will that really do?  What is the worst thing that could happen?"  I know I won't die.  I won't be permanently impaired.  I won't be in any worse condition than I am now, (and I am doing fine now) so what is to fear?  I couldn't answer that.

 

I couldn't "feel" my former intensity either.  Maybe that is a good thing.  Perhaps I am mellowing in my old age, or perhaps it was a product of an addictive life style or food addiction that has finally been broken.  I feel contentment.  I am happy with my life and the people in it.  I am particularly thankful for you and your friendship and the pleasure we share.

 

Donna sent me this today:  "We meet ourselves time and time again in a thousand disguises on the path of life, meaning people are mirrors for us, and how we see and think of them, we are always seeing and speaking of ourselves in one form or another." Carl Jung

 

I thought of you when I read that.  I am always so impressed with the way you speak of others and do believe that your words reflect a reverence and respect for those you speak of.  It is a beautiful reflection on you and an inspiration to me.

 

I apologize for rambling on.  I seriously considered just erasing everything back to the second paragraph because most of this was just me thinking out loud.  Putting thoughts into written form is how I process information; slowly; tediously.  I am off to bed.  Sweet dreams.  - Carole

 

07 Jan 2003 21:54:13 -0500 To: Carole

From: Howard Baskin  Subject: Re: mirrors

 

Sounds like a wonderful walk.  I'd be interested to hear more about some of this.  Regarding your past sexual frequency, when I was 18 I might have kept up with you.  I guess I'll have to hope I can produce quality that will make up for lack of quantity?

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others

Pleasure Pleasure Pleasure Pleasure

At 10:29 PM 1/6/03 -0500, Carole wrote Howie:

 

That was a sigh of relief and contentment for those of us who do not have email sound.  Thanks for a wonderful evening.  I am pretending to write this to ask the name of the book on the four personality types.  I really do want to know, but the real reason is to tell you that Wednesday is now up to you.  I didn't wish to go another week without the pleasure of your body in mine, but now that you have given me such an exquisite, sensual experience, I will let you decide if you want to do that again so soon.  I personally would never turn down the opportunity to do the wild thing with you, but I do not wish to impose.

 

This email should have been entitled pleasure as I used the word four times in one paragraph and had to go back with a Thesaurus and exchange it for words of similar meaning, just so I wouldn't sound like someone with a one track mind.

 

I enjoyed the movie.  It made me think.  Any time you can get a blonde to do that, it is probably a good thing.  Someone who recently came to me for money (and not under the guise of love) was rattling on about dating, the voices in his head and his failed marriage of 22 years.  It was the first time I had heard anyone say out loud that they heard voices, (since Joan of Arc) so what had been a monologue that had about put me to sleep finally had my attention when he said, "I will know I have met a good person when that little voice inside my head isn't screaming at me, over my infatuation, "stop!  look at all these warning signals! pay attention!".  He went on to reason that you always hear the voice, but you tell your self you can fix them, change them, put up with them or whatever and in the end, you can't.  That made me think about you.

 

My little voice hasn't warned me once about you.  There isn't one thing about you that I think needs fixing nor changing.  For someone who makes a career out of fixing and changing things, I find that a remarkable feeling.  What a delightful experience this has been and continues to be! -Carole

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themselves and our shared planet.  

 

You can help feed the cats at no cost to you using Amazon Smile!

Visit BigCatRescue.org/Amazon-smile

 

You can see photos, videos and more, updated daily at BigCatRescue.org

 

Check out our main channel at YouTube.com/BigCatRescue

 

Music (if any) from Epidemic Sound (http://www.epidemicsound.com) This video is for entertainment purposes only and is my opinion.

No wonder we are both single.  Who has time for a life?

Howie writes Carole:  Tomorrow would be good if it works for you.  I'm going to be restricted to a quiet day tomorrow - did something to my calf on one of my wild charges to the net in tennis this morning in the cold.  Nothing serious, but limping a bit.  So getting out to a movie later in day would be nice.  But if your day gets busy and you find you can't, you can just let me know.  I'll  check theaters and times.  Happy to meet up your way if that is best for your schedule.  What time frame works best for you? Shall we plan to dine too?  All of above totally up to you.

 

I forgot that I have my friend Bruce and his daughter coming to stay Thursday and Friday evening.  How about we tentatively plan for Monday afternoon and firm up time as we get closer? - Howie

 

Carole wrote Howie:  I just got out of the Spay Neuter meeting and we had set our next meeting for next Monday night (13th) at 6:00 PM.  I could do tomorrow night if you are eager to see it, or shoot for Tuesday the 14th, but keep in mind we are already set for the 16th at the zoo.  I could still do the Sunday afternoon thing as well...

 

No wonder we are both single.  Who has time for a life?

 

Today's meeting went well.  We are making some pretty huge strides toward the goal of no more homeless pets. Hope your day was equally fulfilling. - Carole

Unprotected Sex 01 Jan 2003 07:08:27 -0500 To: Carole From: Howard Baskin Subject: Good thoughts Thanks Carole, The unfiltered openness that you consistently show in your conversation is something I really enjoy and value. The bar comment did sort of turn my head for a moment, but I didn't think any more about it. The issue of unprotected other sex is something I've wanted to bring up but was not sure how. You operate at such a high level of integrity that I've accepted your initial comment of being "certified" disease free and have assumed you would act with concern for my health. But, frankly, I'm glad to have that understanding be explicit. Given your history, I'm not sure how you can believe commitments any man makes to you in return on these matters, but all I can do is assure you I would honor it as well. I suspect in my case it will not even come up, but that is a whole different discussion we do not need to have right now. I would like you to feel free to do whatever is right for you. Re the guidance, it was a little experiment based on something I had experienced once. But more generally, I would like to continue to learn what you enjoy and am happy to provide feedback as well. And while I don't have any particularly kinky inclinations, if at any time any suggestion were uncomfortable for you in any way I would want you to voice that rather than feel you were obligated. Meanwhile, it was really wonderful of you to focus on my pleasure despite the limitations on your own. Very rare. I think all of this is just part of the fun journey of getting to know each other over time. Thanks for the offer to stay. With the early breakfast and a long day of driving ahead, and not being used to sleeping with company, I felt that it was not the best time to possibly not sleep well. But I look forward to exercising the rain check. Happy New Year to you! Shall we plan something for Saturday night to kick it off? 01 Jan 2003 22:16:18 -0500 To: Carole From: Howard Baskin Subject: Re: Check out Dictionary Information: Definition Equanimous Looks like it is, indeed, a word. I think the sound of it as you say it, verbally or mentally, is very consistent with its meaning. Just has a peaceful ring to me. (Reading this 16 years later, it’s the only time I knew a word Howie didn’t) I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views. If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story. The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/ I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story. My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themselves and our shared planet. You can help feed the cats at no cost to you using Amazon Smile! Visit BigCatRescue.org/Amazon-smile You can see photos, videos and more, updated daily at BigCatRescue.org Check out our main channel at YouTube.com/BigCatRescue Music (if any) from Epidemic Sound (http://www.epidemicsound.com) This video is for entertainment purposes only and is my opinion.

Picking Men Up in Bars

12/31/02 Carole wrote:

 

Dear Howie,  I had just gone to bed, when I realized you asked me if I frequent bars and pick up men, (because of my comment about the Playboy channel) and I just said, "no, not anymore" and got distracted with something else.  I didn't explain myself, and despite all of the recent assertive training, feel that I should:  I have only done that four times, perhaps, in my entire life and not in the last 12 years or more.  Oddly enough, two of those people turned out to be life long friends.   My morals are not as high as I would like, but they are not as low as my comment would suggest.

 

I feel awkward saying this because of the negative implications of doing so, but also want you to know that I have not and will not engage in unprotected sex outside of our relationship as your continued good health is of utmost importance to me.  While I may have had a rather nonchalant attitude toward my own health, based on the fact that I never even catch a cold, I would not risk your well being by association.  As long as I am on uncomfortable subjects, I want to say that I really appreciate you telling me what you want sexually.  I am not a mind reader, despite my claims to the contrary, and truly wish to please you.  I can only be effective if you let me know what you like and what you don't.  As someone who has a hard time saying what I want, I can appreciate what an imposition that is for me to ask of you, but in the long run we will both benefit.  Of the two of us, you are stronger, so you can lead by example.  ;-) - Carole

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themselves and our shared planet.  

 

You can help feed the cats at no cost to you using Amazon Smile!

Visit BigCatRescue.org/Amazon-smile

 

You can see photos, videos and more, updated daily at BigCatRescue.org

 

Check out our main channel at YouTube.com/BigCatRescue

 

Music (if any) from Epidemic Sound (http://www.epidemicsound.com) This video is for entertainment purposes only and is my opinion.

Howie Anticipates the “Jamie Test”

At 07:11 PM 12/30/02 -0500, Carole wrote:

 

Dear Howie, I am in awe.  I feel like I am moving in slow motion through a dream and it feels

marvelous!  I often think, when reading books, that the author felt a need to flesh out a predetermined number of pages and that if they just kept it to the important stuff if would be much more helpful.  Your summary of the book gave me a feeling of insight into you that I found very comforting.  It also gave me the heart of the message in a very condensed form.  Interestedly, it took me all day to read it, because I had to sit and reflect on virtually each sentence to fully experience the idea.  Perhaps that is the reason for all the seemingly unnecessary verbiage in books;  so that we have time between the thoughts that challenge us for our minds to think they are doing something?

 

I really appreciate you sharing that with me.  I am increasingly amazed at your depth of understanding and your ability to focus.  What impresses me most is the way you have incorporated your learning into your everyday life.  You make it appear effortless and, while I am sure it is anything but easy, that is the mark of any expert.  I hear it in your speech and the way you talk about others and life's experiences.  There seems to be a constant awareness of, and acceptance of, your inner essence and that of others.  I see it in the tranquility that you exude whether you are driving, talking, amusing me and even in the heat of passion.

 

Perhaps especially in the heat of passion.  Sometimes I get so caught up in the moment that I lose touch with everything outside of my physical pleasure.  (Your body has that effect) It is only when I start to reconnect to the room that I notice how peaceful your expression is.  It draws me in and enfolds me in your serenity.  It is like sharing a warm fuzzy blanket with you.

 

There is an innocence and gentle strength about you that brings tears to my eyes.  They are the kind of tears that you would shed at the sight of a glorious sunrise, or at the sound of the wind in the trees, or in the feel of sand between your toes, or the interaction of a doe and her fawn.  It is the overflowing of gratitude for having witnessed something truly beautiful.  You are such an inspiration and your friendship is such a blessing.

 

Movie and dinner sounds great.  I "started" this morning and am not in a tremendous amount of pain, so I don't anticipate being any worse by tomorrow.  Apparently the acupuncture from last month is still effective.  I have heard there is a good Chinese Acupuncturist in St. Pete.  I need to get over to see him before next month.  I have been a little cranky and emotional, but not nearly as bad as usual (without the treatment).  I stood in the kitchen and balled my eyes out yesterday at a poem that one of my volunteers wrote about the life of a stray cat.  Rosie always makes me cry though.  She is just the dearest, most sensitive little Native American Indian.  She cried the day she graduated from red shirt to yellow shirt and had ALL of us crying with her.

 

Glad to hear you can make it on the 3rd.  Jamie and Daniel rescheduled their vacation so that they could go, so you will meet some of my blood kin.  Daniel is one of the funniest people you will ever meet and Jamie is sure to like you because she has an uncanny ability to see through to the heart of a person.

 

30 Dec 2002 13:30:15 -0500  From: Howard Baskin 

 

I'm sorry you are one of those for whom this time of month is so difficult.  Hope it will not be too bad, and again, if you find yourself not up to it tomorrow just let me know.

 

Look forward to meeting your troops Friday and Jamie and Daniel in particular.  I guess we'll see if I pass the "Jamie test".

 

There is also a pair of Chinese female acupuncture doctors here in Tampa who have a good reputation if you ever want to try.  Dr. Leyun Shao is the one I saw some years ago.  On Virginia Ave. by St. Josephs.

Jamie Dresses Like a Clown to Talk About the Circus

 

Dear Howie,  I am running late for church and was too tired to do anything but fall into the sack last night, so I didn't write.  Thanks for the notes, the ideas on the email and especially for "Little" Howie and a WONDERFUL evening.  The circus raised 5700.00 for us last night and 7200.00 for their own elephant sanctuary.  They did a great presentation about us and their affiliation with us and Jamie expects some antics, that she pulled in their costumes in front of the St. Pete Times journalist last night, will get us some press today.  I cannot believe the way she has changed from not being able to speak to a person to dressing up like a clown and cornering the press with her version of how Ringling is supporting WOES.  Who is this kid?

 

I am meeting with the Spay and Neuter committee that evolved from the meeting where you and I first met.  I am hosting their meeting at the sanctuary and may not be able to write until late, but wanted to thank you for being your wonderful self.  I enjoy the "minutes" with you.  They are all great. - Carole

 

29 Dec 2002 09:28:16 -0500 To: Carole 

From: Howard Baskin 

 

The minutes we share are a wonderful mutual gift.  I'm glad you enjoy them too.

 

Have not seen anything advertised that I thought would be of particular interest for Tuesday evening.  But I really do not want you out driving in the later evening that night with the roads full of drinkers, so I suggest whatever we do end at your house if ok with you.  I look forward to welcoming in the New Year with you, even if we don't quite make it to midnight.

 

29 Dec 2002 12:24:09 EST Subject: Friday the 3rd To: Howie

 

Dear Howie,  Now I am running late for the Spay / Neuter people but wanted to get on your calendar for 6PM Jan. 3rd to do the circus thing, if you are not booked.  John Kirkland just sent me an email asking if he could give me and the board and whomever I wanted to bring a back stage tour of their animal housing (which wasn't done last night) and then the show.  Jamie and Daniel are going on vacation the 1st and won't be here, but Scott, Cathy and Jen and maybe Anissa, Brian and Christy will probably be there.  They are wonderful people and I would be proud to introduce you to some of my "family".

 

Thank you for your concern about driving on New Year's Eve.  I really don't want you out there driving either.  I am due to start my "cycle" on the 31st or else I would suggest spending the night with you.  The first four days are hell, so not only would I be not much fun to sleep with, but even worse to wake up next to.  If you don't have a "better offer" for the 31st, I'd still like to see you and we can work out the details and driving later. - Carole

 

29 Dec 2002 19:24:02 -0500 To: Carole

From: Howard Baskin 

 

I cannot imagine a better offer.  I'm fine driving that night, and sounds like we won't make it that late anyway.  If it turns out you are really not feeling well and would not enjoy getting together please feel free to tell me on short notice that day.  Not a big deal.  Assuming we do get together, maybe just a movie and then eat at your house.  There are bunch of good ones out and I have not been in a long time, so if that is ok with you, would be fine with me.  3rd for circus is good. - Howie

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themsel

The Power of Now

28 Dec 2002 09:08:39 -0500 To: Carole

From: Howard Baskin 

 

Notes are great.  Simple, key points.  I had not read this book in years so it was a nice refresher for me.  The book was a gift - no need to return unless you really feel you would never refer to it, in which case I'll pass it one to another disciple.

 

Fair's fair, so attached are notes I made 18 months ago on The Power of Now.  Have a copy here if you would ever like to borrow.  I tend to read in spurts with long periods between that I always regret allowing.   You seem much more diligent.  Sometimes my notes are too cryptic and later

even I cannot determine what they mean.  And Power of Now was pretty ethereal, not an easy read, so not sure if these notes will have meaning.  But you have reminded me that I should reread them.  I'll plan to be here from 3pm on, so whenever you arrive is fine.  If you feel like arriving early feel free.

 

I'm not an email guru, but in many cases when you set up a website the provider offers at least a forwarding email with the website name in it.  You use that email address, and the emails that come in are forwarded to whatever email you use.  One big advantage is that when you change ISPs or email providers, you do not have to tell all of your correspondents to change the address they use for you.  You simply forward to your new email.  The bigfoot account I use works that way.  It forwards to my tampabay account.  For years it was free, now they charge, and recently they had a glitch and were down for a few days which was annoying, so I have tended to use the roadrunner address more.  But back to the website, as an example, a while back I set up ww.HowardBaskin.com with Verisign.  (Never did much with it after setting it up, but had fun with it briefly.).   They offer an email service.  So, I have an email address  @howardbaskin.com.  It forwards to my roadrunner email.  If I drop roadrunner and change to some other provider, I just go in and change who it forwards to.  So you might have SaveTheCats @WildlifeOnEasyStreet.com forwarding to AOL or hawk or whatever.

 

Not sure I understand how hawk offers email without being an ISP and simply having a phone number to dial into.  You might also check with ATT.  I use their service when I travel and have found it reliable.  Not sure if their cheaper plans have usage limits though.

 

I'm a little surprised that with the amount you seem to use the internet that you would not use the roadrunner broadband, despite the added cost.  Unless it is not available to your house or easy st?

 

Not sure why I am rambling on about all this typing when I'll see you in a few hours and it would be much faster to do in conversation.  Duh!

 

Still debating what to give up.  Am almost bathing in cappuccinos to enjoy my last few days in case that is the choice.  And alcohol is a growing candidate.  I decided you are so intoxicating that the liquid kind is probably easy to drop.

 

See you later.  If you think of it, call as you head this way.  What is attire for this evening? - Howie

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themselves and our shared planet.  

 

You can help feed the cats at no cost to you using Amazon Smile!

Visit BigCatRescue.org/Amazon-smile

 

You can see photos, videos and more, updated daily at BigCatRescue.org

 

Check out our main channel at YouTube.com

If you are going to meet me in nothing but a tool belt...

27 Dec 2002 11:59:20 EST Subject: Re: tomorrow Carole writes To: Howie

I am glad you are home safely.  I would love to get together with you tomorrow evening, (even if I was second choice to a kid and his grandmother).  If the weather is good I am going sailing with Nelson and Bryan and some of the other people from the club, but should be back by 5PM.  We are heading out at 10AM so we should be back well before then.

 

I was impressed with your handiwork in the photo.  You know, if you can wield a hammer and swing from the rafters like that, (in a thong and tool belt), you would have the Chippendale boys running scared and worried about their job security...  When I was a kid my parents bought a two bedroom house and convinced me that it was really cool that I lived on a similar looking platform in our garage.  Mine did have stairs though.  Until recently, I bought that.

 

I have really enjoyed the book on assertive training and just got the opportunity to practice saying no (like a broken record) until the other person gave up.  I have to deal with the county on an issue that I have been avoiding because I knew I would cave, but now I can't wait to go give them a hard time... Are you sure you want me to come over tomorrow? ...  I promise not to practice on you.

 

27 Dec 2002 16:31:27 EST Subject: circus Carole writes To Howie

 

Would you like to go to the circus tomorrow at 6PM?  Ringling wanted to impress me and my board and persuade us that our association with them is not perpetuating the exploitation of performing animals.  They sent 10 tickets to their pre season premiere tomorrow that includes going back stage, seeing how the animals are cared for between shows and the show itself at 7PM.  I have an extra ticket if you would like to go.  It would be an opportunity to meet my "family" as well.  Jamie and her boyfriend Daniel will be going, as will my operations manager, Scott, and Cathy who handles everything on weekends.  Jen is coming and is also a key person although I haven't put her on the board, only because I cannot risk losing a majority of the vote.  All of these people are kids, so if we go, should I introduce you as Uncle Howie?

 

If you would rather not go, I can skip it and go another time, under cover, which may be a better idea any way.  Either way is fine with me.  Just let me know.

 

27 Dec 2002 20:41:46 EST Subject: tool belt Carole writes To: Howie

 

If you are going to meet me in nothing but a tool belt, I should probably come to you rather than have you drive cross town that way.  What did you decide about the circus?  I apologize for the late suggestion, but didn't know myself that the date Ringling had chosen was tomorrow until an hour before I emailed you.  I don't even know for sure where it is, but will know tomorrow after talking to Jamie.

 

As for the food issue, that is a lifetime commitment for me.  I will always be toting around Tupperware.  When I travel I exist mostly on canned tuna and rice cakes.  I hope it does not exasperate you.  It is the only effective way I have ever found for managing my weight.  I want to lose another pound or so per month for the next year and a half and then maintain 135 to 140.  I currently weigh 155 and have maintained that for about 7 months.  I haven't been seriously trying to lose more, but decided to make that one of my New Year's Resolutions.  I don't remember ever making one before, ( a NYR) but you were an inspiration to do it and do it right.

 

Thanks for the inspiration... and the dancing carpenter imagery.

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savet

First Christmas for Howie and Carole

Carole writes Howie:  Dear Howie,  As soon as I read “battery needed for the corkscrew" I laughed out loud.  The wine butler is the perfect compliment to my CoCo Chanel incense burner that shares the same counter top in the kitchen, but you knew it would be.  You don't miss a thing!  Thank you for such thoughtful and useful gifts.  You really know how to touch me.  Speaking of which, I am looking forward to your touch New Year's Eve.  Hope you are having a wonderful time. - Carole

 

Howie writes Carole:  Glad you liked them!

 

Having fun here.  Yesterday I helped my brother build an elevated storage area in his garage.  I really enjoy these projects with him and he is very appreciative.  Aside from the fact that it is easier and more fun when he has help, the opportunity to take advantage of my being here means a project gets done that might be delayed indefinitely until he can make time.    This one was fairly ambitious and when we started I was concerned it might consume the entire visit.  But to my surprise we got both 4x8 platforms up in about 6 hours. Not a highly engineered cat-a-tat, but still very satisfying.  And more physical work than I've done in awhile.  Can still wield the hammer from my old aluminum siding days though.

 

Today I got to see the kids put together the picture puzzle, which was fun.  My teenage niece is playing her American Idol CD over and over, and my nephew is struggling to build the airplane Sue suggested I get him so we can fly it.  Just got back from an hour walk in crisp 50 degrees, which makes it feel more Christmasy.  Anyway, that's the news here.  Thanks for the e-card.  Talk to you end of week. - Howie

 

Carole writes Howie:  The cat is certainly out of the bag now that I know you can wield a hammer and actually use the word "enjoy" in the same paragraph.  That sort of brotherly camaraderie sounds pleasurable.  The closest my brother and I have ever been has been when he has helped me with the cats.  He cleans cages and he and his wife helped my father extensively when we were trying to grow all of our own organic chicken.  I am glad that you have this good relationship with your brother and his family.  Blessings like these are just too precious for words.

 

I've been writing my story since I was able to write, but when the media goes to share it, they only choose the parts that fit their idea of what will generate views.  If I'm going to share my story, it should be the whole story.  The titles are the dates things happened. If you have any interest in who I really am please start at the beginning of this playlist: http://savethecats.org/

 

I know there will be people who take things out of context and try to use them to validate their own misconception, but you have access to the whole story.  My hope is that others will recognize themselves in my words and have the strength to do what is right for themselves and our shared planet.  

 

You can help feed the cats at no cost to you using Amazon Smile!

Visit BigCatRescue.org/Amazon-smile

 

You can see photos, videos and more, updated daily at BigCatRescue.org

 

Check out our main channel at YouTube.com/BigCatRescue

 

Music (if any) from Epidemic Sound (http://www.epidemicsound.com) This video is for entertainment purposes only and is my opinion.