Day 123

9/14/23

Day One of a "Therapy Dog in Training" was so rewarding!

Sam is nine weeks old and weighs close to 18 pounds...that's 18 pounds of love and gentleness. We continue to be amazed at his sweet spirit and acceptance of everyone he meets.

We headed down to the Walker Residence to meet with some of our regulars there. The first stop was the main entrance where Sam was flooded with loving arms, hugs and melting hearts. He took it all in stride and nuzzled all who held him.

Next, we went up to see our dear 99-year-old, harmonica-playing dear, dear friend! Don was there with his daughter (joined later by his son and a visiting nurse) and all decided that Sam was a keeper. Many snuggles, lap-holding AND some songs on the harmonica were bestowed upon our new boy. He loved every moment!

Heading off to the other side of the establishment found us with our sweet friend, Bobbi. With tears in her eyes, she held our boy and said, "How did you know this was just what I needed today? I felt hopeless and now I have hope!" Sam didn't miss a beat. We set him down at her feet and he proceeded to lick her hand before taking a little snooze.

Off to our friend Sonny who got right down on the floor to be at "pup level" with Sam. They played and played, followed by the world's best belly rub! Sam was beyond happy and so was Sonny!

It was time for our little guy to go home for a nap, so we left the way we came..."oohs, ahs," and lots more love from the concierge area! There were even a few photo sessions!

Mac and I said our good-byes and headed out to the car. I crawled in the back seat with our "Therapy Dog in Training" and Sam placed his head on my lap as we drove away. As he gazed up at me, I found myself pondering what it is about this pup (and our other three) that makes me feel the love. I realized it is their pure offer of love to me that enters my heart and warms my soul. What a gift!

Perhaps, just maybe, we could all offer a bit of that puppy love to those we encounter. I'm no Golden, but giving away just a little bit of pure love might just make this world a little better place. It's worth a try!