WILDLIFE UP CLOSE - SEQUIM-STYLE - Just off the Road

When I first heard a lion roaring from my deck, I decided that it was necessary to find the source.  Amazingly, just about 2 miles from my house, I found the entrance to the Olympic Game Farm, home to some of the friendliest "wild" creatures on earthy.

From bison to elk to deer to bears who wave at me, these wondrous animals are the legacy of those wonderful Disney nature movies that I loved in my youth.  Feeding is encouraged, though only wheat bread will do.

Being a transplanted Alaskan, I was skeptical about the brown bears they advertised, but a stop beside a huge specimen, and the offer of a slice of wheat bread was all it took to entice this big guy to give me a little wave, though he proved to be camera-shy.  It was a no-brainer to follow the signage.

Olympic Game Farm is now my 90-year old mother's favorite place in Sequim. She loves getting up close and personal with the animals, and it gives me an excuse to visit as well.

HAPPINESS - Just off the Road

My Mother is 90 years old.  She's starting to forget things, and sometimes I find her TV unplugged and her slippers in a drawer.  Make no mistake, she still remembers the important things, and this year she remembered all the wonderful memories associated with Christmas.  In the place she lives, they go out of their way to make their residents feel loved and cherished, and this visit from Santa took place after a wonderful classical concert presented by some amazing musicians.  

Christmas is a time to give thanks, to laugh and sometimes indulge, to hug our loved ones, and to feel that sense of family that we occasionally overlook.  This is my Mother's 90th Christmas, and it's one I'll always remember.  She is so happy!!!