Day 180

11/11/22

Sammy will be four months old tomorrow! Since his return from the breeder, we have been giving him more and more freedom in the house. It took him a bit to get used to making his own choices, but he now seems to enjoy himself!

With my students and my own children, I tried to give a reasonable amount of freedom. I would often give two choices towards the end result! Being happy with either choice, it was a win/win for me! They got to experience a taste of independence and I was able to get something done!!!!!

Watching our youngest Golden experience his new-found freedom, I thought about the freedoms I often take for granted. Walking my Goldens wherever I desire, driving from state-to-state, choosing an occupation, voting and so much more led me to stop and focus on this special day.

Veterans are an amazing group of people who left home and family to protect the United States. This extremely selfless act allows me, and everyone else in this country, to live a life where freedom guides our choices. What we say, what we do and where we go are all choices we can make because veterans protected those rights.

My sweet father and my amazing husband both served our country. I have heard heroic stories of WWll and Vietnam from the perspective a loved one. I have always been humbled and appreciative of their sacrifice, bravery and love of this country.

Now Sam, on a much lesser scale, is gaining some of the freedoms in this big old house. He has been hesitant while testing the waters of his new-found freedom. I am not sure he is actually appreciative of this new phase in his life. Hopefully, he will continue to develop with the knowledge that he is safe and that someone will protect him if that is needed.

That is how I feel about our veterans...they make me feel safe and I know they would protect me if necessary.

Thank you VETERANS!!!! You are appreciated!!!