brakelight

Left rear brakelight on my 2008 CR-V Ex-L doesn't work unless the running lights or headlights are on. Right brake light works just fine all the time (knock on wood), but the left brake light will only illuminate if the running or headlights are on. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I'm sure everyone has had experience changing out bulbs in the past on their CRV's but since this was the first of mine on the gen 3 - I thought a little "black pearl" type write up might be nice to make the task easier for those who will need to complete this task in the future. Tools needed...