Marshmallow Humans, Donkey Fits, and the Best Secret Ever

Hello friends, fans, and humans who sneak me extra snacks,

Samson here. Reporting live from Illinois Horse Rescue of Will County with Straight From the Rescues' Mouth, where we have officially survived blistering cold, questionable fashion choices, and some very dramatic weather decisions.

🥶 The Cold (and the Humans Who Tripled in Size)

Let’s start with the cold. It was rude. Like really rude.

Our human pals have been walking around looking like giant marshmallows. So many layers that some days all you can see are their eyes. I tried to identify them by voice, but everyone sounds muffled and crunchy.

Thankfully, we’re back in the 20s, and we are hoping it stays there. I personally LOVE the indoor arena because I hate being locked in my stall. However, let me be clear... if you try to make me go outside when it’s that cold, I will throw a full-scale donkey fit. There will be opinions. Loud ones.

🐱 A Very Important Manure Mound Rescue

Now for something serious (but also heart-melting).

My human pals found a very cold, very underweight cat on our Manure Mound. And no (before you ask) she is not one of our resident barn lions (cats).

They knew something was wrong right away, especially with her eyes, so they rushed her straight to the vet. Here’s what we know:

• She’s about 1 year old

• She’s blind in both eyes

• She weighs only 4 pounds

• She is now safe, warm, and loved

Currently, she’s living in our office bathroom, which I hear is very exclusive real estate. She’s getting lots of care, cuddles, and supervision while she starts her rehabilitation journey.

If you’re able, please consider sponsoring her care. Even us large, fuzzy animals agree. This tiny girl deserves every chance. Her name is Ophelia.

💘 February Is Almost Here… and So Is Valentine Giving Day!

Guess what’s coming in February?

💝 Valentine Giving Day📅 Saturday, February 7th⏰ 10:00 AM – Noon

Bring a donation of:

• Dry cat food

• Chicken food

• Or a monetary donation

And you’ll get to meet some of us rescue animals in person. (Yes, that includes me. You’re welcome.)

🥁 The News We Couldn’t Keep Secret Any Longer…

Okay. This part nearly broke me. And trust me keeping secrets is NOT a donkey strength.

After Christmas, I overheard something BIG. Like… life-changing big. There were whispers. There were happy tears. There were tears of joy.

Illinois Horse Rescue of Will County received a sizable donation. One we have NEVER received before.

Because of this incredible, anonymous gift: We will be able to purchase a small quarantine barn.

So please, from all hooves, paws, and beaks ... give a BIG HOOF-STOMPING THANK YOU to our anonymous donor. You changed everything for us.

That’s a wrap for me this month. See you next time.

With gratitude, sass, and hay crumbs,

Samson 🫏💙