'''Cheers to a New Year and Another Chance for Us to Get it Right.''

Well, its almost the end of another year.  I was thinking to myself what a good year it was for kitties in the Beechwood section of Rochester.  Even though I can't see it, I know for sure there are less on the streets because of me.  I am REALLY proud to say that.  I've stopped a lot of unwanted pregnancies too with Trap, Neuter Return.  I've also adopted out at least 50 cats this year.  I am so proud of that.  What one person can do is absolutely amazing, isn't it? 

Of course there are angels out there who have helped me help the cats with shelter building, and food donations.  Just last night, during the storm that dumped at least another six inches on us, Bob pulled up with his pretty wife and dropped off SIX plastic tote shelters!  And just yesterday Maree has made me another two!  Boy are these ever needed, along with boards.  If you could see the snow that piles up on each of my spots out there, you would see how much these totes, along with boards, are necessary for any degree of comfort for these cats.  Its terribly sad what I see, but I keep moving, and I know that I am at least filling an empty belly for them each morning. 

I took a nice long drive out to Honeoye Falls this morning, the sun shining, the sky as blue as the sea.  It was not a quiet ride though.  I had Hercules SCREAMING at the top of his lungs the entire ride.  He hates being in a car, hates it.  I drove him to his new home, which is on 10 beautiful acres.  I am so thrilled I was able to meet up with this girl, who turns out is a real sweetheart.  I felt an instant connection with her.  She has the cutest little girl Chow dog named Lacy.  Black and fluffy, just like Hercules (now named Cee lo).  I am hoping they become best friends.  I attach a picture of Cee lo cuddling on his new mom's lap.  More pictures to follow soon!  

Finally, to add cherry on top, here is a beautiful piece of poetry about welcoming the new year.

Perhaps a bit wiser,

a bit kinder, too,

a little bit braver,

a heart that's more true,

a touch of believing

I've not known before,

in joys I'm receiving

a little bit more.

A little more anxious

to reach out my hand,

despite hurt or problems
to still understand,

accepting the heartache

that life often brings,

a little more beauty

in life's simple things.

A prayer when I'm weary

as onward I trod,

a little more trusting,

believing in God,

'tis this I would wish for

within moments dear,

not a lot - just a little

this wondrous new year.