I have come back to life after a rough month. The farm chemicals. A terrible rash - allergic to raccoons! I thought the latter was connected to the chemicals so we only figured it out, or Ken did, when it got so bad I looked like a red-eyed raccoon! I phoned him in CA because he is my avocado growing friend and I was afraid it was them. But, he also rehabs raccoons and gave me good advice. I wash with Dr Bronners after each session with the guys and it is almost gone.

The chemical poisoning took numerous de-tox baths and a month anyway. I also started drinking green tea again; the weather demands it.

So it was wonderful to wake up at 5:30 Tuesday morning Full of energy! I have been sorting and decluttering, mending, some potting, and caring for animals - two cages of squirrels and a big cage for the five raccoons. R and I built the 8x8 cage on the weekend and the guys love it so much they, so far, have made no moves towards the door when I open it - except "Here comes food!"

Not as high since then but still FEEL like doing things instead of just sitting. Through all this time of troubles, I stuck fairly well to a strict diet and have not lost a pound - in over a month! I can get into three pairs of pants so I must be less bloated. My mantra is "I really want... but I want to lose weight more!" It has worked pretty well. I have not lost hope. Just thinking about new strategies. One I have been doing is to be less efficient; take things further, park further from the markets, move more. The exer-cycle is in the city and I have been in the country - five raccoons are TOO many in the city. They really needed this big cage. I needed for them to have it!

The animals have helped my agility, flexibility and balance. There is a certain amount of work involved even though they are weaned except one little guy. I carry buckets of water for their mini-pool as it is too far for the hose. The water needs to be changed several times a day but they love it and it is fun to watch them playing in it.

R took a pic of me feeding bottles to three on my lap! I held one under my chin. The forth kit was probably raising cain! Their REAL mom has six tits! I am glad to be down to one on a bottle. Banjo is named after Terry Joe Banjo!

Well, I was going to vacuum before the Cafe tonight but I guess I won't.