Originally known to the First Nations of the Okanagan Valley as Khiluk, which was- and remains today revered as a sacred site producing therapeutic waters. During World War I the minerals of Spotted Lake were used in manufacturing ammunition. Later the area came under the control of the Ernest Smith Family, for a term of about 40 years. In 1979 Smith attempted to create interest in a spa at the lake. The First Nations responded with an effort to buy the lake; in October 2001 they finally struck a deal. First Nations arranged the purchase of 22 hectares of land for a total of $720,000, and contributed about 20% of the cost. The Indian Affairs Department paid the remainder.

These animal portraits and painted headdresses by Amy Hamilton are adorably perfect for this time of year. They feel so soft and wintery, and would make amazing notecards for gifts.

Huge weimaraner Harlow immediately fell in love with the new inhabitant of the house – dachshund puppy named Indy. Now the two friends spend all the time together. Just look at this adorable and fun couple!

Pickles the cat was once abandoned and had a hard time finding a home because of his size until he met a couple who have a heart and home big enough to take him in.

A lesser or red panda stands on its hind legs at Chiba Zoological Park on May 20, 2005 in Chiba, Japan. The panda can maintain the position for over 10-20 seconds at a time. (Photo by Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images)