November Scavenger Hunt

The November scavenger hunt on flickr was based on the Sound of Music song, "My Favorite Things." I finished the August hunt, and started the September hunt, but it was so difficult, I gave up, and wasn't even sure I'd try again. Inspired only a week ago to look at the November list, I decided I could do it--even though I had a very short time to complete the list. I'll blame my liberal interpretation of the clues on that!

Farm Sanctuary's Winter Wonderland Benefit

Click on the image below to learn more about this sure-to-be-spectacular event. One of my sterling silver chain maille bracelets will be in the silent auction. I wish I could go, but I have to teach early Friday morning.

Farm Sanctuary Action Alert

Bring Change to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Of all the animals in the United States facing cruelty and exploitation, those raised and slaughtered for food make up the vast majority. One of the most significant impacts President Elect Barack Obama can make for farm animals as he transitions to be the leader of our country, lies in who he chooses as the next Secretary of Agriculture. In addition to our new president, Election Day also saw passage of California’s Proposition 2 – granting hens used in egg production, calves raised for veal, and pregnant sows used for breeding basic freedoms. The Obama Administration has the opportunity to advance more humane agricultural policies nationwide. The next Secretary of Agriculture needs to support a new American diet, one filled with fresh fruits and vegetables and other plant foods grown by sustainable methods and available to all, rather than continue down the path of harmful industrial animal agriculture and government subsidies to the wealthy meat and dairy industries. Please urge President Elect Obama to appoint a Secretary of Agriculture who will bring needed change to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and our broken food system. Tell the Obama Administration your vision of a government where the treatment of farm animals matters.

Little Man Walter

More Picture News

A picture I took at the Hawaii Convention Center is feature in the Schmap Honolulu online guide!

Celebration FOR the Turkeys

On Saturday, George and I went to Watkins Glen for the annual Celebration FOR the Turkeys at the Farm Sanctuary. The day began with a lovely and delicious vegan potluck at the Watkins Glen Community Center. Thanks to Turtle Island Foods for donating tofurky for the event! Many people brought yummy home-cooked side dishes and desserts. Being the first-class cook I am, I bought some food at Greenstar! After we were all stuffed, we heard a presentation from Keith McHenry, co-founder of Food Not Bombs (wow--the stories he told!), and then an incredible talk from Susie Coston, Shelter Director. Susie knows all the animals at the Farm, and she is so passionate about them. She's quite an inspiration!

Of course, my favorite part of the day comes when we all go to the Celebration for the Turkeys, a feast of pumpkin, squash, berries, and lettuce for the turkeys at the Sanctuary. Because it was a very cold day, we were all bundled up...I could hardly operate my camera, my hands were so cold. Even so, it's always delightful to see the farm animals.

Two small pallettes had the spread for the turkeys...we were standing in a semi-circle around them, waiting for their grand entrance. One brave girl ventured out in front of the others, though a small group quickly followed her. Some of the turkeys were a little shy and stayed in the shelter. George and I watched them feeding for a bit, then visited the pigs (my favorite) and the goats. By the time we made our way to the pig barn, George gave up, he was so cold. I perservered and went out to say hello to my cow friends.

Because of the weather, the Farm is closed until spring, so it was my last visit until 2009.












All of my pictures from the celebration are here.