Day 234

1/4/23

Snowstorms bring out the need for comfort and warmth in Minnesotans! Today was one of those days! The Goldens could be found curled up on dog or human beds, the cozy blankets strewn on chairs were put to good use and the jigsaw puzzle was a hub for the family. These days are cherished!

I did, however, find myself walking through the drifts towards Walker Senior Residence early in the day. Although the plows had not been out yet, I followed some tire tracks and headed down the road. Mother Nature offered quite the display with the tree limbs covered in white, the clean snow glistening ahead and the subdued silence of the world a beautiful "sound!"

Since the Goldens would have been a veritable snowball by the time we arrived, I ventured out by myself. Arriving without a dog was strange, but I was on a mission. Signed in, I walked up the stairs to the dining room to sit with my Harmonica Friend while he ate. You see, I had not been able to connect for a couple weeks and we missed one another. In parting, he said, "Even though darkness can find you around every corner, remember to look on the bright side. Why not choose to be happy?" Words to carry in my heart!

Returning home, it was time to call my special friend over in Austria. We "adopted" Swen back in 2000 when he was working at the German Pavilion at EPCOT in Disney World. We connected so strongly at our first encounter that we kept in touch, invited him to MInnesota for Christmas, had him visit our cabin, home and even spent a week with him in Germany. He is so very dear to us!

While we were visiting, our wonderful neighbor, Tim, came over to plow our driveway. Our incredible friend across the street invited all the neighborhood children over to play in the snow. The children arrived with parents (and one Hey Nanny) so it was a village of adults making sure the kids had a great time...and they did! Arriving home, I let the pups our for a "snow bath"...playing in the snow (not Gus with his stitches newly gone) and coming through the doggy door much cleaner than when they went out. All in all, a great day!

Due to the slower pace of the day, I was able to have some real quality time with each of the Goldens as well. As a pack, they are amazing, but one-on-one, they are truly incredible.

Sam and I had a snuggle on the bed where we had a discussion about what a good boy he is.

Ranger got a belly rub while I told him about the impact he has on so many and how he makes this world a better place.

Lilly got some loving on the couch with a conversation regarding her sweet nature and empathetic ways.

Gus, stitch-free, received belly rubs, back scratches and a long visit where I told him how brave and amazing he was.

I am so lucky to have these pups in my life. They are MY Therapy Dogs here at home.

Hoping that everyone had a chance to simply slow down and savor the day. Thinking back to the breakfast visit with my 99-year-old friend and his wisdom, I decided that there will always be challenges along the way, but choosing happiness is a brighter path!