Last year was our first year wrapping gifts at Borders Bookstore and we raised $3000. That was significant but this year, we wondered if we might match that or do better. The volunteers were so excited to see the final tally reach a grand total of $5004! The Borders managers were delighted with our professionalism and the superb level of service we provided for their customers. So much so, that they invited us to set up a table any holiday we choose. They also promised us that, next year, we would again be their charity of choice for their Christmas holiday gift wrapping.

What was most touching was that so many of the Borders employees came up and personally put their hard-earned money in our donation jar. They appreciated all the work we were doing making their job a little easier during the holiday crunch and what we do on behalf of the animals. During our two weeks there, the Borders employees had their annual party and included all the Big Cat Rescue volunteers in their "high-calorie" celebration. They brought us plates and plates of home baked goodies to keep us going.

The days were long, 10:00 am to 10:00 pm everyday, but we all covered shifts at the bookstore as well as our daily workload of caring for nearly 150 big cats back at the sanctuary. The best thanks our volunteers can receive they tell us is to see the money really make an impact for the cats. Toward that goal, we have just purchased several heavy gauge plastic balls to give to some of our cats for enrichment.

Pictured here is Sylvester acting like a kitten with his new toy. It's a joy to see the funds go towards both the necessities and the fun things. Thank you all for volunteering and those who gave. A huge thanks to Borders Bookstore for making this possible!