Manhattan is the showcase of some of the most adorable, well-groomed, well-loved, happy animals. While doing my errands in Upper East Side, I had the good fortune of meeting Butter. Seeing Butter as an young adult, I can easily imagine he must have looked like a chunk of butter as a puppy - hence the name.

Also in Upper East Side is what I call the Proud Guardian of Pet Toys. Expressive and interactive, this cat naps all day amidst pet toys and supplies, usally by the window when the winter sun is the most sleep-inducing and comfortable. The same proud feline patrols the shop at night, staring at the streets and perspective introders menacingly and suspiciously.... it doesn't know it yet, but it is destined to be a web sensation!

if you haven't been to the American Musseum of Natural History, it is an excellent idea to visit in the midst of the scorching heat. There is something about the scientific display and its rational, calm, analytical content that makes the museum seem an oasis. At the same time, the constant commotion of curious, excited children, their eager but happy parents, and waves of tourists from all around the world keep us connected with the human element. It's the kind of place you visit alone but will never be lonely.

I myself interacted, shared, laughed, and discussed with many perfect strangers over some of the most detailed, intimate subjects over the course of my visit today. Some of us were particularly impressed with the spider silk, a magnificent gold silk textile produced from undyed silk from the Golden Orb Spider. These creatures pose unique challenges as a source of silk not only from their unique geography but also their lifestyle...these spiders are cannibalistic in nature, so extra precautions were taken to secure the silk.

Here's a bit information on the spider silk on display: http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/spidersilk/?src=e_h

One other object that held manys' attention was the Star of India. Not everyone knows the Star of India is here in the American Museum of Natural History; it was as stunningly beautiful as luminous. Who does not like star sapphires?

Cheers,

Sassy