I remember black squirrels from my college days. There was an interesting variation where some of them had reddish tails, which was rather cool.

The squirrels were so tame, unfortunately, that they would invade dorm rooms and tear apart backpacks, etc. to get at treats.

Much job~ma, Anne.

Much job~ma, Anne.

Go, Anne!!!

...

I am glad Allyson made note of Polgara's mother passing. I've known since yesterday, and it felt odd not saying anything, but as I found out from her sister who doesn't post here, it seemed not my place.

If you know Polgara or Little Sister (Pawswithclaws) at all, have talked to them, probably even once, in person, you know their deep love, and admiration of, and gratitude to their mom. And she was too damned young--55. Little Sister has been in the middle of planning her (own) wedding. I am drowning in denial of the "it's not fair" and "it can't be" variety, and have been since I heard from Little Sister. When I first read her post, I kept thinking I was reading it wrong, or it was a reference to a sick joke I wasn't privy to, or something.

Loads of job-ma Anne

I met Polgara's mother when she was in town just last month -- she was (I typed she is, dammit) a lovely woman, and I'm still in shock. Poor, poor Paula and her sister.

I'm with you on the shock, ita.

I never got a chance to meet her, but it was clear from things Polgara said that she was a special person.

I'm sorry to hear that, though I've only posted with Polgara, and never got to know her mom, but I'm telling you, that thought gave me quite the shiver. We only have right now with the people we care about, really. (Suddenly feeling icky about killing myself for humorous and political purposes in lj.)

job ma~~ Anne

Oh, God Polgara. Much much much love and condolences to you and your sister. {{{{}}}}

If anyone is gathering money for a ginormous bouquet, let me know. I can't contribute much, but would like to contribute something.