Thanks Peeps for the sympathies. It really does help to know you all care.

Jewel was a black lab mix (mixed with what we really didn’t know) and she would have been 11 years old at the end of this month.

My son asked me last night if we would get another dog. I said yes, but not right now. We need to wait for the right dog. We’ll know it when we find it. That is how it was with Jewel. I saw her at the pet store with an adoption society and just knew she was the one. I can’t imagine my life without a dog in it.

I was just imagining how warm and comfy that would feel, and I got friendly goosebumps
And def. one of the best Monty Python skits EVAR!

I too call matchinks!

also, that looks so comfy.

That is cool, biscuthead! There was a LARGE gorilla with his back to the glass, and I sat behind him – even through howevermanyinch glass, it was still a bit daunting!! Cool that you got to connect with one of the babies.
We only live an hour from the National Zoo, so we should get there more often…

Baby gorilla looks absolutely blissed out.

Martha – I’m so sorry for your loss. I understand how it feels to lose an animal companion. We grieve for animals the same way we grieve for any family member. It is good to know that your Jewel had a life filled with love. Many hugs and lots of love to you and your family.

long hair plus strong hands with opposable thumbs negates need for baby bjorn.

@Kristabelle
10 or so years ago, I sat with the gorillas at the National Zoo, back to the glass.

Eventually, the 15 month old baby approached + we pressed our hands against the glass + had a nice friendly look into each others eyes before mother came + took him away.
So very moving.

Lucy the friendly orangutan was amazing too.

I highly recommend people to visit them.

I am scared of gorillas. Actually all apes and really all monkeys. I like my arms attached to my body, thanks!

Martha – deepest sympathy to your family. I have never lost an animal, and I know we will be devastated when that inevitable time comes. I’m sorry that you did not get a chance to say goodbye.

Gorillas are cool. They are very thoughtful, or so it seems. At the National Zoo, you can sit with them – they tell you to sit back to back with them against the glass and look over your shoulder – that way they don’t think you’re being aggressive.

Mommie, you make me feel so happy, and sleepy…..
and I love you:)