Today was the final day for my 2023 'daily travels'. It was not the busiest day but it was productive none the less... All of the Christmas pet toys and sweaters were put back in storage but they were not sorted. This morning, Wend Kelly was kind enough to meet me and get things organized. (Thank You Wendy). After doing so, I realized that we have enough for Christmas 2024. Even though nobody donated any of the items this year, I had been buying things on clearance for the past couple of weeks. That added to what we still had filled six large plastic tubs. I am, very grateful to know we will be ready, when the time comes... When I left our storage units, I drove out to Jurupa and Van Buren but the people and pets I was looking for were not there so I continued on to Jurupa Valley off of Galena. I finally caught up with someone in need of dog food. I was able to visit and provide supplies. When I left that location I drove to Veteran's Memorial Park. I actually y made two stops there. One in the back for three dogs and another in the front for one. When I left the last stop it was 11:30am and time for me to get back home... Bottled waters, V8 Juice, chicken jerky treats, Inaba Churu Bites, wet dog food, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and a Kong squeaky ball were shared.

We were expecting rain all day today. I had planned to spend time at our storage units getting the Christmas items organized for next year, after I finished doing some baking. However, when I was done baking and cleaning up, I noticed the rain had let up so I decided to venture out for a bit. I usually go to Grand Terrace on Saturdays so I headed out there. It began raining again, while I was there. It wasn't pouring so I pulled up my hood and stayed for awhile. I visited with six dogs and distributed supplies. I thought about driving around and looking for others with pets but most look for 'cover' so they can stay as dry as possible and I didn't think it would be worth my time or the fuel to continue. I just drove to our PO Box in Jurupa Valley where we received one last supply donation for 2023. Afterwards, I went home to give my dog a potty break and then went to meet someone for lunch... Bottled waters, hot hands hand and toe warmers, chicken jerky treats, Inaba Churus, wet dog food, wet puppy food, Inaba Twins for dogs, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Millin Company, kabob chew sticks, buffalo tendons, bully sticks and a plush squeaky toy were shared.

My first stop of the day was on the East Side at the Path of Life Community Shelter. I found out that the dogs I was visiting will soon be moving into an apartment. Sadly it won't be in Riverside so I won't be able to visit but I am still happy for them. When I left that location I drove around for a bit and then headed over to Fairmount Park. I wanted to speak to someone about the motel room he was unable to get to this week and ask if would like one for next week. From there, I drove over to University and Van Buren to meet up with 'Solo' and his companion and discuss a motel room for them next week too. I am trying to get to those who missed it on Tuesday and Wednesday and give them an opportunity to go next Wednesday. On my way home from there, I stopped at the Mary S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic to inquire about not having any of my weekly appointments open until the 24th of January. The person who has the answers is not back until Tuesday. I am hoping this is an error or our appointments will be very limited in January. I made one final stop at our PO Box, hoping for end of the year donations but there wasn't anything there. We did not do too badly considering our funds were cut so much in 2023 so I am very grateful for what we did receive and what we did accomplish... Bottled waters, chicken jerky treats, Inaba Churus, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, small bag of Pedigree Adult dog food, small bag of Senior dog food, kabob chew sticks, buffalo tendons, bully sticks and a Kong squeaky ball were shared.

I reserved five motel rooms last night. One of the people was a no-show and another left before I arrived but I still visited with a few... At 7am, I went out to get fuel and purchase fast food gift cards for the companion of 'Johnson'. Afterwards, I went back home and then left again shortly after. I went to Rite-Aid and purchased more of the clearance Christmas pet sweaters and then headed to the motel. Tracey Cleary was going to meet me there at 9am, in order to pick up the deceased dog and take him to the animal hospital to be sent out for cremation. I got there a few minutes before she did and visited with the other dogs in the room. When she arrived, the companion took 'Johnson' out to her vehicle, said his good-bye's and then she left. I went back to the room and spent more time with the companion, his friend and the three dogs that were there. My next visit was with a dog named 'Nugget' and the last one was with 'Boxer and 'Becca'. As I was leaving the motel, I received a message from the animal hospital saying 'Johnson' was there and they would charge my credit card. Because I still had Christmas pet sweaters and toys in my back seat, I decided to get on the freeway and go to our storage units. The holiday items take up so much room and I don't plan on giving out anymore of it until next Christmas anyway. We actually have quite a few holiday pet sweaters and toys, now that I have bought clearance items four times now. I already asked a friend to go over there with me to sort and organize everything so I know exactly what is there for the 2024 holiday season... Bottled waters, Burger King gift card, McDonalds gift card, Taco Bell gift card, cookie packs, beef sticks, wet dog food, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 2 large stainless steel pet bowls, chicken jerky treats, individual bags of treats, buffalo tendons, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and a squeaky ball with a rubber cover were shared.

Both places that we spay and neuter were closed to us today but I was still able to spend time with pets. We received a donation to be used for motel rooms and anywhere else it was needed. I reserved five rooms last night and five rooms for tonight. There were nine dogs and three cats in the rooms from last night. Everyone showed up and they were all still there when I arrived at 9am. I had an opportunity to visit with each pet, provide supplies as well dress a few of them up in holiday sweaters and accessories. I am hoping those I reserved rooms for tonight show up and stay until we can visit Thursday morning... Bottled waters, hand warmers, Subway gift cards, gloves, socks, tuna snack packs, beef sticks, cookie packs, candy canes, Christmas candy, canned pastas, soups, small fleece blankets, Christmas fleece blanket, Max and Neo fleece blanket, jingle bell necklace, holiday headbands, holiday pet sweaters, handmade pet jacket, small bag of small dog tender bites dog food, small bag of small bites, senior dog food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, chicken jerky treats, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks, individual bags of dog treats and squeaky plush Christmas pet toys were shared.

Tomorrow will be the first time in nearly twelve years that I will not be doing my daily travels. Because of that, I wanted to touch base with as many people as I could today. The main reason was to offer them a motel room for Wednesday or Thursday night, thanks to a donation we received yesterday. I drove around to different locations on the Eastside. Only one stop was made and that was to visit with 'Scamp' and 'Joey'. Next stop was an encampment in Grand Terrace where six pets were visited and supplies were provided. From there it was an area near Fairmount Park. I wanted to speak to the gentleman whose dog ran off but was found. He had not gotten her back yet but planned to this afternoon. I was hoping to find a few people at the park but nobody was there with pets. When I drove through Rubidoux to go home, I did not look for 'Leo' and his companion. After the last minute cancelation and the other unsuccessful attempts to get the dog neutered, I decided not to stop for him anymore. He is a great dog and I hope his companion doesn't continue putting off his neutering. I would like to thank Wendy Kelly for riding with me today. It is always nice to have the company... Bottled waters, hand warmers, toe warmers, beef sticks, cookie packs, small bag of small dog tender bites dog food, small bag of senior dog food, wet puppy food, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, chicken jerky treats, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks, individual bags of dog treats and squeaky plush Christmas pet toys were shared.

I am making cheese lasagna for my son and his family and started the sauce this morning. While I was doing that, I received a text from someone asking me how a particular dog was doing. She then asked if we needed anything specific for any of the pets. I said that what we need the most right now are monetary donations but that I would let her know if I thought of supplies she could donate. She said she was just going to send money via PayPal. I told her that was great! She was very generous and said she would like some of the funds used for motel rooms to get pets and their people out of the elements for a night. I plan on starting our annual 'Shelter From The Rain' fundraiser in January but this gives me a way to offer something special now. I was able to get seven people signed up jut this morning so hopefully we can do this for a few more.…My first stop was in Jurupa Valley at a river bottom outlet in an industrial area. I visited with three dogs and provided supplies for them and seven cats. When I left that location I drove to Fairmount Park. Nobody was there with pets but I was told where one of the gentleman was with his two dogs. When I found him, he told me that one of the dogs had gotten loose and run. I told him I would check the shelter's website and make a post on social media. When I went back to the park to ask some people to be on the lookout for the dog, I was informed that she had run back to the park and one of their friend's had her. I then drove back to where her companion was to let him know. When I left the park, I got on the 60 freeway and then the 91 to head to our storage units. I loaded some pet food, went to our PO Box and then back home. I did not make my usual Saturday stop in Gran Terrace but will do my best to get over there tomorrow... Bottled waters, Subway gift card, gloves, socks, hand warmers, toe warmers, beef sticks, canned soup, canned pasta, cookie packs, tuna snack packs, holiday pet headbands, jingle bell necklaces, holiday 'fun' glasses, holiday pet scarves, holiday pet sweaters, holiday pet toy stockings, chicken jerky treats, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet dog food, Inaba Juicy Bites, Inaba Churu Pops, Christmas cat toys, bully sticks and individual bags of dog treats, were shared.

It was supposed to rain all day so I wasn't sure how much I would get accomplished. However, the sun was out at 8:30 this morning so I decided to take my chances. I told a few people I would meet them on the Eastside in the parking lot of the Path of Life Shelter. I met with three resident and their dogs first. Next I met with a family that is no longer unhoused but came to visit. They had all three of their small dogs and one of the cats. I also met with my friend Janene Purdie. I had some baked goods for her. She had a vegan lemon cake and 2024 funny calendar for me as well as some bully sticks for the charity. When I left the parking lot, I made a call and reached someone I had not seen for awhile. We agreed on a place to meet and I drove there. I visited with the dog and provided them with a few supplies. I was going to go to our PO Box and then home but I made a stop at the Smart& Final first. While pulling into the parking lot there, I saw a familiar gentleman and his dog so I stopped to visit with them before going into the store. My final stop was the PO Box where I was thankful to find a donation check waiting for me! Bottled waters, Subway gift cards, gloves, socks, hand warmers, beef sticks, canned soup, canned pasta, cookie packs, tuna snack packs, handmade pet jackets, holiday pet headbands, jingle bell collar, holiday pet scarf, chicken jerky treats, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, Inaba Juicy Bites for cats, small bag of tender bites for small dogs, small bag of dog food for small dogs, Christmas plush squeaky pet toys, Christmas squeaky toys, Christmas cat toys, bully sticks, candy cane shaped chew sticks, individual bags of dog treats, were shared.

I was relieved that it was not raining this morning, when I left for the motel. After I dropped off some of my cookies and holiday candy to the front office, I went to visit one of the dog's that received 'the works' yesterday. She was in heat so I was thankful we got to her when we did. She had a rough night with the meds and had been throwing up a lot but looked like she was feeling better and was happy to get some chicken jerky treats. After our visit, I moved my vehicle around to the side of the motel to visit a second dog that received 'the works' yesterday. He wasn't having any issues and was happy for the visit and treats. Both dogs got new handmade jackets, holiday headbands and jingle bell necklaces, as well as some other goodies. When I left the motel, I drove around Jurupa Valley for about thirty minutes looking for a family that lives in their van and truck. I was also looking for a couple of other people who are sometimes in one of those locations. I did not have any success. Because I had a personal appointment to get to at 11am, I decided not to look any further today. I am hoping for clear skies tomorrow morning, so I can meet some people on the Eastside but the weather forecast is not promising. I will have to wait and see... Bottled waters, handmade pet jackets, holiday pet headbands, jingle bell necklaces, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks, individual bags of dog treats, squeaky holiday balls and Christmas pet toy stockings were shared.

We had two female dogs, two female cats and two male dogs scheduled for 'the works' today. These would be our last spay/neuters for 2023. Everyone confirmed yesterday so I was really hoping it would work out. That was not the case. At 7:45am, I received two text messages. One was from the companion of a dog that was supposed to get 'the works' at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services and was asked to be there by 7:30am. The second was regarding a dog named 'Leo' that I have been trying to neuter for more than eight months. I saw the dog yesterday and everything was a go. I guess it was too good to be true. I was told the dog was not feeling well and would not make it in today. The last time they were a no show. This time they were a last minute cancelation. I decided I am finally done with this situation. I have spent too much time and effort trying to do right by this dog but nothing has worked and I am going to have to move on. It makes me sad but at some point it is time to let go….The one dog that did show for the earlier appointment did not get there until 8am but she was in heat so I am very grateful the people were able to keep her appointment... I gave them some people and pet supplies and we got the dog checked in. I then went home for about thirty minutes, before heading out to the Mary S Robert's spay/neuter clinic. At this point we only had two female cats and a male dog that were supposed to be there. All three showed up. One of the cats had diarrhea and some neurological issues. It cost extra to pay for testing and treatment but I did give the approval. Our six pets turned into four but that is four more that won't be adding to pet overpopulation in the homeless community or our community at large. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter"... Bottled waters, ARCO cards, Subway cards, canned soup, canned pastas, beef small fleece, sticks, cookie packs, socks, large Max and Neo fleece, large collar and leash set, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba chicken stew for cats, Christmas cat toys, large stainless steel pet dish, wet dog food and plush/squeaky Christmas dog toys were shared.

Yesterday, my daughter told me that PetSmart had a lot of their Christmas pet toys and sweaters on Clearance. I asked her if she would purchase a variety of both for 'Taking It To The Streets'. At 7am, I went to meet her and pick it up so I could drop it off at our storage units. It is so close to Christmas now that I am just going to use whatever I have from last year but now I will have a head start on next year. I am hoping others will do the same and we will be able to spread some of that 'holiday cheer' again. The only things I bought this year were the holiday headbands, necklaces and scarves. I am hoping it works that way in 2024 too…..While dropping off the holiday items, I grabbed a few bags of pet food, a couple casesof water and some canned soups and pastas. I took it all home, unloaded some of it and then stocked my vehicle for today. With rain on its way, I wasn't sure what to expect... It only drizzled but I still didn't have much luck finding people with pets. I drove around for nearly two hours going through Rubidoux, Fairmount Park, Salvation Army and then back through Rubidoux. The second time driving thrpugh there I did meet up with a dog and his companion. He is actually scheduled to be neutered tomorrow and I wanted to be sure the instructions were clear. When I left that location I drove to three other areas of Jurupa Valley but still had no luck. I decided to drive over to an area off of Jurupa and Van Buren and I did find someone there with his dog. I only visited with two pets but it was not for lack of trying to do more. I headed home after that and filled three containers with baked goods and candy to bring to Riverside County Animal Services. One for the Director and staff, one for the clinic staff and one for the ACO's. I will be there tomorrow but figured it would be easier today when I wasn't dealing with spay and neuter appointments. My final stop was our PO Box and then I called it a day... Bottled waters, socks, Subway card, holiday headbands, holiday squeaky balls, holiday plush toys, holiday scraves, handmade pet jacket, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, wet puppy food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company and bully sticks were shared.

I stopped going to the Eastside on Mondays but I went today because two people requested supplies. My first stop was in the parking lot at the Path of Life Community Shelter and then I drove over to University Avenue. I distributed supplies and gave the 40th Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag to a dog I have known for many years. I had a counseling appoint so I did not have time to visit other pets but I did have time to go to check our PO Box. While I was there, I dropped off a container of baked goods and holiday candy to one of the employees there. Most of them don't offer to help me, when I have to get heavy boxes to my vehicle but this person does and I wanted to thank him. If he decides to share that is great but my concern was showing gratitude to someone who goes above and beyond... Bottled waters, 40th and final Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag, socks, holiday pet sweater, jingle bell necklace, jingle bell collar, holiday headband, holiday squeaky ball, chicken jerky treats, small bag adult dog food, small bag senior small bites dog food, small bag senior dog food, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, Inaba Fun Bites, small bag tender bites dog food, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.

I spent the early hours of my morning, baking cookies and filling the freezer so I can share during the week. When I left the house, I drove to the store to return something and then began my daily travels. I usually reserve Sundays for those I can't get to during the week. There were two people I thought I was going to meet with. One is on the west side of the city and the other out in Jurupa Valley but I was unable to reach either for confirmation. However, there is a family in the area of Jurupa Valley where I was going to meet one individual and his dog so I decided to go there. I figured I could distribute needed supplies and then drive around looking for the person I thought I was meeting with. I visited with the family, distributed supplies and drove around as planned. I did find the companion of the dog I was going to visit but the gentleman had to go to work and the dog was with a friend. I did not feel like driving out to the west side but I did go to a park in Jurupa Valley to look for a particular dog that I had a Tiller Tug donut tug toy for. I found him and his companion. The dog was very happy to get teats and especially happy to get the tug. I had given him one before and he loved it but someone walked off with it. They won't lose this one. When I left the park, I drove to my house to get some baked goods and soup that I had for a friend. I had to pass her place on my way to the grocery store so it worked out well. After I dropped her goodies off, I shopped for a few of the baking supplies I had run out of. I do a lot of baking all year long but try to share even more during the holiday season... Bottled waters, snack packs of Christmas candy, wet cat food, wet dog food, Inaba Churu Pops, 17pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, chicken jerky treats, peanut butter filled chew sticks, holiday squealy balls and Tiller Tugs donut tug were shared.

I did not do my daily travels yesterday,due to an appointment I had at Kaiser, I did drop off baked goods and candy to a couple of people but that's about it. I was back on schedule today... When I went to get fuel this morning, I forgot the cookies and candy that I was going to give to the employees at the CircleK so when I went back out at 9:15am, I stopped to drop them off. I was supposed to pick up Wendy Kelly across the street by our PO Box at 9:30am so she could ride with me today. As I was getting ready to do that, I noticed a familiar car in the parking lot. I had to stop, so I could give the dog in that car an Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag and some other goodies. As soon as we were done, I drove across the street to pick up Wendy and we headed out to Grand Terrace. We made one stop where we visited with five dogs and distributed supplies for other and then to a nearby location to meet with two more dogs. The first five had already received the Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags but the last two had not. I have now shared 39+ gift bags and have one left for a dog I missed yesterday. This project has been so much fun and has brought joy to many people and pets. There are other pets I did not see that did not receive bags but I will make sure they get something holiday and/or treat related. Thanks Again to Wendy for keeping me company today! Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweater, holiday headbands, jingle bell necklaces, holiday scarf, 2-14 pound bags of puppy food, Inaba Churu Bites, Inaba Fun Bites, small bag of cat food, wet cat food, bully sticks, small bag of senior dog food, wet puppy food, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, Tiller Tugs leash and Tiller Tugs donut tug were shared.

My first stop of the day was at the Jurupa Valley Motel6. I was there to check on a dog that got 'the works' yesterday and to visit with his two 'brothers'. When I left that location I drove through Rubidoux and Fairmount Park but did not find anyone with pets so I continued driving to the Eastside. I drove to Massachusetts Avenue and visited with Suzy. When I left there, I spent another twenty minutes driving all over the Eastside but never found anyone with pets. My son, his family and my daughter were planning to stop here again this morning so I decided to make a quick stop at our PO Box and then go home. I drove through Rubidoux, while on my way, but I still didn't see anyone to stop for. I have a Kaiser appointment tomorrow so I am debating whether or not to do my daily travels as it might be too rushed. I may just drop off baked goods to a couple of friends and then go straight to Kaiser. I will figure it out, after I wake up... Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag, holiday headbands, jingle bell collar, holiday scarf, Christmas fleece, bully sticks, small bag of adult dog food, small plush squeaky holiday toys, two large plush holiday pet toys, wet dog food and Inaba Twins for dogs were shared.

We had a male and a female dog scheduled for 'the works' at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services spay/neuter clinic and a male and female cat scheduled for 'the works' at the Mary S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic. I received a call at 6:30am that one of the people was already waiting at the first location. She was very early but said she rather be early than late. Around 7:15am, I received a call from the other person. She said he ride had not showed up yet. I told her if she could not arrive by 8:15 or 8:30am that she needn't bother coming, because it would be too late. I would be gone and they won't do surgery if a pet arrives after the other surgeries have begun. I left around 8:15am and received a text soon after that the ride showed up for the second person. I told her it was too late and we would need to reschedule. At that point, I went home for a few minutes to tend to my own dog and then went back out to the other clinic. The cats and their companions rode together and were there right on time. One of them did not have a carrier so I brought one she could borrow. I will go back tomorrow morning and pick it up. When I was done there, I drove out to the Costco in Eastvale, stopped at our PO Box and then went home. I was very thankful to find someone had sent 4-14 pound bags of puppy food through Chewy.com and now I will be able to feed a few puppies during the next week. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter"... ARCO fuel cards, handmade pet jacket, holiday headband, jingle bell necklaces, cat collars. 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food, Inaba chicken stew for cats, wet kitten food, Christmas cat toys, collapsible pet bowls, small bag of senior dog food, small bag of tender bites for small dogs, wet dog food and Inaba Twins for dogs were shared.

I spent most of the morning at two locations. The first was a river bottom outlet off of Grand and Streeter. The second was in the parking lot of the Hardman Center. I was able to give all of the pets and Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag, other holiday items and needed supplies. When I left the second location, I ran a quick personal errand and then went to our PO Box. I got an email that there were two boxes coming from our Chewy.com Wish List. I emptied as much of the back seat as possible in order to make room. Thankfully, one of the postal workers was kind enough to get them to my vehicle and put them in for me. The boxes were very heavy so I cut them open and unloaded them, when I got home. I don't know who sent the packages but I will post photos within the next twenty four to seventy two hours... Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet scarves, jingle bell collar, jingle bell necklaces, holiday headbands, Max and Neo dog leash, Hip and Joint Chews with Glucosamine and Chondroitin, extra hand and toe warmers, cans of tuna, vienna sausages, extra beef sticks, extra cracker packs, chicken jerky treats, small bag of senior dog food, small bag of adult dog food, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet puppy food, Inaba Twins for dogs, wet dog food, Inaba Churus, small leashes, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.

On Saturday, a gentleman told me he was out of dog food. He has two dogs. I said he might want to borrow some from someone else for a couple of days, because I didn't have anymore with me. I told him I would drive back out there and meet him on Monday. I just asked that he call me at 8am to confirm. I didn't want to make the trip, if he wasn't sure he would make it. Today is Monday and I heard nothing from him. I contacted someone else to see if she wanted to meet me, while on my way to Fairmount Park. She said yes and we met at a river bottom outlet in an industrial area of Jurupa Valley. My next stop was Fairmount Park and I met with someone there with her pet and another she was watching for a couple of hours. All three dogs received Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags and other items as well. I was going to look for other people with pets but realized I would not have time to go home and empty the back seat of my vehicle if I did. I was meeting Christine Langdon at our storage units, after she picked up our monthly donation of cat/dog food from the Star Milling Company. With all of the holiday pet supplies I had, there would not have been room to bring any of the pet food with me, which is why I had to go home first. I only visited three pets but three more Animal Victory Holiday Love bags were distributed for a total of 30 now. I am determined to get them all shared by next week and it looks like that may happen. I got off to a late start but everything fell into place and the 'Home Street Home' project seems to be going well for the fourth consecutive year!... Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweaters, holiday pet scarf, holiday headbands, plush squeaky holiday toys, beef sticks, chicken jerky treats, small bag of senior dog food, wet puppy food, small leashes, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.

I limited my time on the streets to ninety minutes this morning. I figured that would give me enough time to edit photos, update all of our social media and take care of emails, calls and texts before finishing preparations for my family's holiday dinner tonight. I had made arrangements to meet with a couple of people at two different locations. I started at Fairmount Park and ended on the Eastside. It had started getting windy again anyway so I was grateful to be limiting my time outdoors. I already made arrangements to meet others tomorrow, before I go to our storage units to meet Christine Langdon with our monthly Star Milling Donation of pet food... Bottled waters, canned soup, canned ravioli, girl scout cookies, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweaters, jingle bell collar, holiday pet scarves, holiday headbands, plush squeaky holiday toys, beef sticks, extra fleece blankets, chicken jerky treats, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, small bag of adult dog food, 2 small bags of tender bites for small dogs, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, small collar and leash set, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.

At 4am I woke up and was unable to go back to sleep so I started cooking more of what I will serve tomorrow night when my family comes for a holiday dinner. At 7am I ran to the store to get a couple of things I have forgotten, even though I have already made multiple trips for the same purpose. When I got home, I cleaned up my cooking mess and loaded my vehicle for today's travels. It was really windy again and my allergies were acting up so I decided to just make one stop. There were six pets at that stop. I knew it would take time to get each of them dressed and ready for the Holiday Love Bag photos. We did not have a sweater for the smallest dog and we don't have any sweaters for the dogs over fifty pounds but I am going to do my best to make them as festive as possible. I am not exactly sure how long I was there but it felt good to get back in my vehicle and out of the wind. I made arrangements to meet people tomorrow morning and Monday morning, stopped at our PO Box and went home. I sorted a couple of donations and put a few more Holiday Love Bags with the supplies I am sharing tomorrow. I had four people coming over to pick up my soup and other goodies after lunch so I made sure I had everything ready to go. The remainder of the day was spent on social media, answering emails, answering texts and answering calls for people who either wanted to spay and neuter or others looking for medical care for their pets. It is hard telling people we do not offer emergency medical care, especially when they can't seem to find help but we have never had funds to do that and certainly don't now. I was hoping that some day we would be able to but our Grants and Donations have decreased over the past three years so it is impossible for now. Maybe in the future... Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweaters, holiday headbands, plush squeaky holiday toys, hand warmers, chicken jerky treats, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, small bag of adult dog food, small bag of tender bites for small dogs, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, Inaba Churus, Inaba Churu Bites and bully sticks were shared.

Most of the morning was spent on the Eastside. Wendy Kelly joined me again (thanks Wendy!) and we made our first stop at the Path of Life Community Shelter where we visited with three dogs. Each received holiday sweaters, treats, supplies and Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags. Our second stop was at Hunter Park. We did the same for two dogs there. When we left the park, we drove around different parts of the Eastside looking for people and pets. Even though I know they stay there, we were unable to find any of them today. On our way back to my home, we stopped to speak to someone in Rubidoux. Her dog had taken off and she could not find him so we did not stay. She did call me later to let me know he returned. I wanted to check our PO Box and thought I would drive a couple more miles to look for 'Chevy' and his companion. The dog was not there but his companion was. Riverside County Animal Services has a program that is helping with the dog while his companion goes in for surgery. I will catch up with him in a couple of weeks. I did speak to a couple of gentleman who want to get their dogs spayed and neutered so I gave them my card. Our final stop was at the post office where I picked up donations. I got them mixed up so I am not sure who sent what and I am waiting for replies from people before I post on our page... Bottled waters, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweaters, holiday headbands, plush squeaky holiday toys, squeaky holiday balls, chicken jerky treats, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, small bag of senior dog food and bully sticks were shared.

I was only going to be able to stay our for sixty to ninety minutes today, because I had a personal appointment to get to. My friend Wendy Kelly said she would ride with me. She met me at my house and we headed over to the Jurupa Valley Motel6 to check on three of the pets that received 'the works' yesterday and to give an Animal Victory Holiday Love Bag to one of them. We will bring something for the kitties on another day but I did give them holiday toys, Inaba tuna fillets, Inaba Churus and a few other things yesterday. When we left the motel, we drove out to Agate Park and met with a family there. The two dogs received the Holiday Love bags and some other items. Only one of the cats came over and we gave him Inaba Churus. There are other cats as well and we will have to go back with something for them. When we were done at that location, we drove around for a bit looking for other people with pets but were unsuccessful. Wendy will ride with me again tomorrow and I am sure we will be able to share more Holiday Love Bags then... Bottled water, Animal Victory Holiday Love Bags, holiday pet sweaters, holiday headbands, beef sticks, plush squeaky holiday toys, squeaky holiday balls, small bag of kitten food, stainless steel pet dish, small collar/leash set, chicken jerky treats, Inaba Churus and bully sticks were shared.

I knew I was going to have a very busy day today but wasn't quite sure how it was all going to work out. Thankfully, it went well! My holiday begins tomorrow night. My daughter will be here for dinner but I am not making my traditional dinner until Sunday when more family is here. In the mean time, I was at the grocery store by 6:30am where I picked up most of what I needed and then went to a second store to get the rest. I will make one final trip on Friday to get a couple more things and that will be it. I went home, put away the groceries and then spent an hour bringing the holiday decoration containers inside and began going through them. A did that until a little before 9am and then I headed over to the Mary S. Robert's spay/neuter clinic. I did not have to go to the clinic at Riverside County Animal Services, because it was closed today. We had two female kittens, one male kitten and one female puppy scheduled for 'the works'. Things were not looking promising, until about 11am yesterday and then the people who were originally scheduled called me to confirm. I had not been able to reach them and wasn't sure if we were even going to be doing any spaying/neutering today. After the paperwork was turned in for the four pets, I left to run another errand, go to our PO Box and then pick up the last of the items I purchased for the AnumalVictory.org Home Street Home, Holiday Love Bag project. I am still waiting on a few beanies and more of the logo bags but things have gotten off to a good start. I had over ordered some of the items and was able to go today to substitute for more of the holiday head bands which are always cute on the pets. I got back home around lunch time and spent the rest of the day going back and forth between holiday decorations and charity business. The day was productive and it always feels good to accomplish everything on my daily 'to do' list... "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter"... ARCO fuel cards, puppy pads, wet kitten food, small bags of kitten food, small bag of puppy food, wet puppy food, kitty litter, Inaba Churus, Inaba tuna fillets cat toys and a dog toy were shared.

I was originally only going to one location this morning. The reason being that at least four people wanted to meet and there were supposed to be a minimum of five pets. I know that getting them dressed up and doing photos and video clips with the AnimalVictory.org Holiday Love Bags would be time consuming. I arrived early but a gentleman showed up with his dog soon after. We were done in about twenty minutes or so and I was ready to start with another pet but nobody had shown up. I tried calling the phone numbers for three people but they all went straight to voicemail. Two of the others always show and that includes the woman who I normally make contact with to make the meeting arrangements. I waited about twenty minutes and then finally left. I headed to Fairmount Park, hoping I might find a few people there. The first person I saw was there without his dog so I continued to another area of the park. There I found a gentleman with his two dogs. We put sweaters and head bands on them, before starting to take photos and video with the AV Holiday Love Bags. I drove back across town and went by Van Buren and Jurupa but did not find anyone there or near the CircleK off of Clay Street. At this point it was 11am and I was near our PO Box so I stopped to pick up a supply donation. While I was doing that, I received a call from someone who is supposed to get his pets spayed and neutered tomorrow. I had been unable to reach him and had just canceled his appointments but I told him I would try to get them back. Thankfully, it was soon enough that I was able to. If all goes as planned, we will have two female cats, one male cat and a female dog getting 'the works' tomorrow... Bottled waters, AnimalVictory Holiday Love Bags, handmade pet jacket, Christmas headbands, holiday pet sweaters, handmade pet jacket, holiday squeaky balls, 2-20 pound bags of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet dog food, Inaba Twins for dogs, snack sized slim jim beef sticks, chicken jerky treats and bully sticks were shared.

I had not made plans for my daily travels, because until yesterday I wasn't sure if the AnimalVictory Holiday Love Bags were going to ready to distribute. Once There were enough to get started, I began trying to make contact with people to see who might be available for a visit this morning. I did not hear back from anyone by 8:30am and I had to be at a person appointment by 10am so I decided to drive to Veteran's Memorial Park in Jurupa Valley. The last time I was there, I saw people with pets and I was hoping to again. Thankfully, three vehicles were there so I knew pets were too. I just wasn't sure if everyone was awake. I might have woken a couple of them up but by the time I left, all of the dogs got holiday sweaters and the gift bags. There were seven pets total at this location. The cat was in no mood for putting on clothes so we just gave him treats and let him be... Bottled waters, AnimalVictory Holiday Love Bags, chicken jerky treats, hand warmers, holiday pet sweaters, handmade pet jacket, holiday squeaky balls, Inaba tuna fillet, Inaba Churus, Inaba Churu Bites, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks were shared.

There were no daily travels today but I was busy preparing for something special. At 6:30am, I went out to get fuel, check my mailbox and then back home for a bit to start organizing holiday decorations and gifts and make a list of what I needed to do this week to prepare. At 8am, I drove out to our storage units. I was there to pick up waters, empty AnimalVictory.org bags left over from last year, Christmas pet sweaters and fleece blankets. Wendy Kelly met me at around 8:45 to help transport some of those things to my house. Once we got there, we started working on the AnimalVictory.org 'Home Street Home', Holiday Love Bags. I did not receive the new bags yet but had thirty five from last year's project. I had all of the items going into the bags, except for 23 beanies. Everything was in my guest room so we dragged it all out to the kitchen and started organizing the supplies and filling the bags. This is a very time consuming project. All of the items going in the bag need to be decided upon and then purchased, before I can even begin. I usually work on filling the bag, after coming in from the streets and spend many hours getting it done. With Wendy's help, we got everything done in about two and a half hours. I can't thank her enough for doing that. It made everything go quickly and it was nice having someone to talk to while doing it. If all goes as planned, I will begin distributing the first bags tomorrow. Seventeen are ready to to and the others will be too as soon as the remainder of the bags and beanies come in. I am looking forward to all of the smiles and tail wags these bags will bring to those we provide services for! Thanks Again to AnimalVictory.org for teaming up with us for a fourth year in a row for this act of kindness and generosity.

First thing this morning, I was back at the store picking up more of the items for the AnimalVictory.org Holiday Love Bags. A few of the things I ordered did not come in yet and there was no definite delivery date so I decided to substitute a few with something similar. Now we have everything except three cases of beanies and the logo bags. It is possible the bags arrived today but I did not have time to check so I will do that in the morning. I would love to get started…After unloading the purchases, I drove out to a homeless encampment in Grand Terrace. I visited with five dogs and provided them with supplies. When I left that location I drove through a few areas of Rubidoux and Jurupa Valley but did not find anyone with pets. It was already after 11am so I decided to stop for produce at the grocery store and head home.. Bottled waters, large bag of recyclables, hand and toe warmers, Inaba Mega Churus, Inaba Churus, Inaba Churu Bites, Inaba Twins for dogs, wet dog food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and holiday squeaky balls were shared.

I did not visit any pets yesterday but did spend all morning taking care of business for the charity. I was checking on orders for items going in the AnimalVictory.org Holiday Love Bags and I went to our storage units. I was mainly at storage to take a look at what types of holiday pet clothes and toys we have. Every year, after the holidays, I ask people to buy clearance items and send them to us for the following year. A few people did that and we filled two large plastic containers. I planned on doing inventory for decided it would be much easier to bring someone with me. I plan to do that this week end. In the mean time, I grabbed some of the holiday toys, pet food and treats... This morning, I went to the Path of Life Community Shelter, on the Eastside, where I visited with and provided supplies for three dogs. When I left that location, I drove to Hunter Park and all around Spruce, Iowa and University but did not find anyone with pets. On my way to the freeway, I stopped at Fairmount Park after I noticed a familiar van parked there. I visited with the dog and provided supplies as well. When we were done, I drove out to our storage units to pick up waters and more dog food. My final stop was at our PO Box... Bottled waters, pet jacket, Inaba Churus, Inaba Twins for dogs, wet dog food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, small bag of soft bites for small dogs, small bag of BilJac senior dog food, Inaba Churu Bites, bully slices and bully sticks were shared.