1:04pm

Back from Orlando

3 comments

I can't begin to tell you how great the Animal Care Expo was and that's after we didn't win the million dollar makeover, standing in line for Disney buses, and paying way too much to eat okay food.

BUT the people that I met were just so fantastic and spending 3 days with 1600 people that care about the same things we do, that share the same passion that we do, and so want to make a difference in the world of animals, is just so energizing! The entire Zootoo announcement event was very emotional but I just have to say I truly am so happy for those that are sitting in New York as I type waiting for tomorrow to come. I just got off the phone from Cheryl of HSOV and told her again "Enjoy these moments". I know she's nervous and scared about what all this could mean and bring. I know I would be. But its a moment to be present for and to remember.

I'm very proud of her and the HSOV and their supporters who worked so hard to get them where CHeryl is today. And believe that there is such potential for good and change to come for them and the animals in their care from this. And selfishly, I also know that the good fortune that comes to them will also help us. So I am wishing the very best for them and will have my fingers crossed for them tomorrow.

But I also met Randy from St. Louis and he's fabulous. What he's doing there and the strides he's making are just so terrific, that its difficult to not want the same for him. Loved him! But again, I met so many people that share this cause that how could you not love them.

Standing in front of more than 1000 people waiting to hear the final three announced, I just kept thinking I was so lucky to be where I was. Mostly, so lucky to have found my passion and my purpose. And while many people think it must be so sad and difficult, I know now not having a purpose is so sad and difficult. Not knowing what you were put on earth to do is sad. Knowing that you are meant to do something....even if difficult, is a gift.


While many people thought I should be very sad about what happened with Zootoo, I couldn't be. Who ever wins will do such good for animals that need help. Are the animals in Parkersburg in need more than those in St. Louis or in Marietta? No, animals in need are animals in need. So tomorrow will be a day for animals winning...whoever the winner is. Yeah for the animals!



Discussion

3 comments found.
Taryn R.
Taryn R. (tarynd)
3 months ago
It sounds like Orlando was a great experience. You along with the HSOP are winners and you should be very proud of all you do. Our shelter is so fortunate to have so many dedicated and compassionate people that care so much for the animals.
Thanks for all you do!!!

Perfectly said Carrie!

My shelter didn't make the final three either, nevertheless I couldn't have felt any prouder than I did watching our representative up on the podium. To have a tiny rabbit rescue achieve what they did speaks volumes about the strength of the nationwide rabbit community. Just making the top 20 brought so much needed attention to an underserved pet.

Attending the HSUS Expo was nothing short of an amazing experience. I met so many wonderful and compassionate people there. Of course, the conversations always gravitated towards our animals.

Congratulations to your shelter for making the top 20!

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