I’ve finished my children’s book called Love Doesn’t Stink, inspired by a precious baby skunk that won my heart. I wrote this story to share how loving and wonderful these little misunderstood creatures truly are. If you have kids, grandkids, love to spoil a friend’s kids, or are just a big kid yourself, the link to the digital book is here. You can also find it in the Classroom anytime. Profits from this book will go to All Things Wild to support the care and protection of skunks.

For centuries, whaling pushed humpback whales to the brink of extinction. Entire generations were lost. The balance of their populations shifted in ways we’re still uncovering today. But here’s the beautiful part. As humpback whale populations rebound, something fascinating is happening. Older male whales are now more successful at fathering calves than their younger rivals. Why? Because they’re better singers. Humpback whales produce some of the most elaborate songs in the animal kingdom. And it appears those powerful, refined songs may take years to perfect. In the early years after whaling ended, populations were dominated by younger males. But as numbers recovered and older whales became more common again, females may have become more selective. It appears that experience matters and they may be choosing males whose songs have been practiced and perfected over time. Researchers studying whales in New Caledonia used genetic testing and even an epigenetic “molecular clock” from tiny skin samples to identify paternity and estimate age. The findings suggest that behavior, competition, and mating success are evolving as populations heal. Nature doesn’t just rebound in numbers, it calibrates, relearns and restores wisdom. There’s something comforting in the knowing that given time, protection, and space… life finds its rhythm again. Practice makes magic. 💙

It never ceases to amaze me how GOD brings people into my life. Some may see it as coincidence. Others may see it as a sign. For me, I see it as a blessing. I met Mark while helping him with an urgent situation at work that thankfully turned out well. During our conversation he shared a little about the project he is currently working on. His mission felt aligned with my own, and we exchanged contact information. A day or two later he emailed me a couple of articles. I read the one about whales first. You can imagine my surprise when I realized he was one of the people who helped rescue the gray whales trapped in the ice in Alaska in 1988. I received this just before learning that the Center for Whale Research was hiring. Yes… I took the leap and applied. It would truly be a dream job if the stars align. Mark kindly gave me permission to share the article he wrote about that incredible rescue. It’s a powerful reminder of what people can accomplish when they come together for animals. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did.

Since it’s Wednesday… let’s talk about the original hump. A few fun camel facts: • Camel humps don’t store water. They store fat, which helps them survive long stretches in harsh desert environments. • During mating season, male camels inflate a strange pink throat sac called a dulla. They puff it out of their mouth to attract females and intimidate rival males. • Camels can drink up to 30 gallons of water in about 10 minutes when they finally find it. Nature always has a few surprises. Did you have any fun camel facts to share?

What’s on the agenda for you today… and for the weekend? Does it include your furry friend? A nice relaxing walk outside? Reading a good book by the fire? Maybe a little afternoon nap for a pick-me-up? Whatever you do, I hope it includes some unhurried time and unconditional love with a furball. Happy Friday 💛 Jungle and Monkee are already planning their nap schedule over here. 🤣