My birthday is on Monday. Last year, as many of you know, I came to Sundance to celebrate my birthday. This year, I am, of course, working at Sundance and will celebrate my birthday, at Sundance by working! On a federal holiday, no less. It's all good, I assure you. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to help everyone get tickets to the films they so very much want to see. I'm especially happy to be part of this very fun festival.
But enough about all of that.
I have a very special request. Since it is my birthday, I figure I get to ask!
I grew up on the back of a pony. Her name was Sandpiper. I will tell anyone who asks that I loved her just as much as I have loved any animal I have had the pleasure of sharing my life with and that she really was my best friend during my tumultuous teen years. She kept all my secrets and never told a soul. She also taught me how to win with grace. Believe me, it is important to know how to win with grace.
Sandpiper lived for what felt like forever. I could never truly part with her, so when I was no longer able to ride her, I spent many years finding new riders and caretakers for her. There are lots of children who are now grown adults with children of their own who also learned to ride on the back of that very sweet pony.
Because of her, I am a sucker for horses of all colors. It's practically tattooed on my forehead. I can't walk into a barn and not rub my own nose against theirs, scratch their ears and long to hop on their backs and gallop away into the clover. Horses just have huge, loving, trusting hearts. I've never met a horse I didn't absolutely love.
Economic times are quite tough these days and it seems that a lot of folks who own the backyard pony or horse are finding themselves in a pickle. Unable to properly care for their animals (and I know, horses are expensive to keep!), they're sending them off to the slaughter houses. Slaughter houses! As a vegetarian who is working her way back to a vegan, well, this is just making me very sad.
Right now there are 13 horses who really need our help. They're being held hostage at a feedlot in California and we need to bail them out. I've already donated lots of my Dreamsweet Tea money because if Dreamsweet can't help, then I shouldn't be in business.
But because it is my birthday and I'm not ashamed to ask my blog readers for favours, I'm asking any and all of you who have a soft spot in your hearts for these kind and gentle beasts to please donate and help, as well.
Sandpiper got to live out her final days until the ripe old age of 38 romping in lush green pastures in Maryland. These horses do not deserve to end up being tugged fearfully to slaughter. Let's give them the chance to live happy lives.
I realize it's January. The holiday bills are rolling in and the economy is shakier than ever. But even $5 will help. Especially if 500 of you participate.
Thanks!
P.S. I do not believe it is too late. While it said they had until the 18th, I believe all monies raised will go to saving these horses...or others in a similar plight. So please donate.
