massive low blow
today was odd. first an exam on a very frightening sea otter. history of numerous human attacks with massive pearly canines fully engaged. but things went ok, with ready fear in the background keeping a low hum of thrill throughout the tasks. then i spayed a bat all on my own and felt very happy and content with my improving surgical abilities. just as i finished closing the bat and she was recovering, there was a short request on the walkie-talkie: "please call this number immediately" one of the kudu (which i had darted yesterday) had been found dead in the quarantine barn and another one didn't look so hot. ran down and put in a catheter, gave fluids, provided oxygen, moved into a warm spot... then she was dead. the others were concerned but maybe ok? then a late day with necropsies of the newly dead that are 70kg each and both by themselves would have been a significant undertaking. covered in kudu blood and woefully behind on paperwork i checked my voicemail and a had left a message letting me know she was at the zoo at that moment and we left in the almost snow together. had dinner at this diner i once frequented in my much more naive years and laughed our way through the train ride home. sooooo meloncholy that she is leaving tomorrow and i won't see her for 2 months. my heart is aching a bit at the thought. we will preemptively bring the new year in together tonight.