A belated Lovemongering Thursday....

So, unless you were abducted by aliens or spent a leeetle too much time partying yesterday, you noticed it is now Friday instead of Thursday, and Thursday is when I do my Lovemongering Thursdays.

Gah, big apologies guys! I've already missed a few because of the pneumonia bout, and it seems as though the fates are conspiring something against it...so boohiss on those fates.

Unfortunately, much as I'd love to do nothing better than write all day, I actually have to go out in the world and make a living. And yes, though this takes time, I will NOT complain about a job that lets me play with animals all day (which is a story that I will save for a whole 'nother post).

ANYHOO.

Because I've missed a few of these Lovemonger sessions, I've decided to highlight TWO subjects that I think are worth helping. As always, if you feel someone is a valid candidate to highlight during my Lovemongering Thursdays, please let me know!

This week, I've decided to take note of worthy candidate, fellow animal lover, and fellow friend Kathy Steven's Catskills Animal Sanctuary.

I've actually volunteered at the sanctuary, and written about Kathy before. Raised on a horse farm, and with a background in education, Kathy made it her life's mission to save farmed animals, and educate others on the horrors of factory farming. She also takes in abused, abandoned, and neglected farm animals. The 80 acres in this peaceful upstate retreat is now at capacity--especially with animals being brought in due to the many farm foreclosures.

Especially sad is the plight of horses, which she also takes in. These animals are simply turned loose by people who suddenly find them a costly luxury item during this volatile economic climate.

Kathy has already built TWO extra barns and she is completely at capacity. If you live nearby, consider volunteering or adopting an animal...and, of course, donations are always appreciated. Simply click the link above to find out about the many ways you can help this wonderful organization.

By the way, Kathy has written a wonderful book about her experiences called, "Where the Blind Horse Sings." On the cover with her is one of a FEW blind horses she has rescued and ridden. If nothing else, pick up the book, you will love it and I think some of the proceeds go to the sanctuary:



The second candidate this week pertains to the horrible brush fires in Australia. These wildfires have ravaged a great deal of forests, killing and making homeless countless animals--like this sweet little creature, whose story you can read HERE.

The wildfire also burned homes, automobiles and killed many people.

There are many ways you can help directly. You can donate to the Australian Red Cross. You can also help Australia's Animals through the Wildlife Victoria Fund.

Another more interesting--and crafty--way to help is through Etsy. They have set up a store with donated items...all of the proceeds going to relief of this tragic fire. If you are interested in purchasing an item, you can visit the OzBushFireAppeal site HERE.

So far, they seem to have collected $15,000 Australian dollars...great job everyone!
As always, I am hopefully that each of us can help one another....

Until next time, Friends!