Day 1068

This morning, I was cooking chicken for Miss Lilly and some of the water boiled over the side of the pot. It hissed a bit and the smell was pretty horrible, but it was a quick fix. Looking around at my Goldens, I realized they were a bit upset by the event. Comforting each one, I turned to Sam…he wasn’t there! This boy is my absolute shadow, so after calling his name a few times with no paws running my way, I became slightly frantic. After a quick look around the main floor, I finally saw a paw peeking out from the stairwell! Making sure he was OK, my relief was huge when I realized he was only frightened. Poor little guy, the shenanigans on the stovetop had made him flee! Realizing that he had run upstairs to feel safe (I had predicted he would run towards me) has prodded me to make a plan for a true emergency where Sammy won’t be safe if he hides upstairs in a closet!

Safe places come in two “styles” for me. The first is a physical spot where I know I am out of harms way. A room, a chair… a special location where nothing can go wrong…these places are magical and keep any danger at bay!’

The second style involves a beating heart. There are a few people in my life who are able to envelop me in their ring of safety…their hugs make everything better. These individuals are such a gift during a time of anxiety and beyond.

Of course, my Therapy Dogs offer their own wonderful sanctuary! How can anyone be too frightened with those big brown eyes watching over you? A paw on the arm doesn’t hurt either!