Day 327

4/8/23

It's hard when your little brother, who isn't quite nine months old yet, is bigger than you are! Poor Gus! What he lacks in size, he makes up for in agility! They could play in the backyard ALL DAY, but only are allowed a short time every couple of hours or so (due to their rough play). When they come in, they are typically filthy and need mini-baths each time! I don't really mind because they are so sweet and it gives me some one-on-one time with each boy. Lilly and Ranger (being the elegant seniors of the pack) never get dirty...but they don't really rough-house anymore.

Spending time with just one loved one is a rarity in this day and age. Family members and friends seem to be extremely busy, so getting them together as a group allows for a connection of sorts. I still enjoy those times when I get to really focus on one person and share that relationship uninterrupted.

Having coffee with a friend, taking one of my children out for lunch or shopping, visiting a certain actor in California, doing an art project with Asher or having a candlelight dinner with Mac are all times when I don't have to divide my time with that loved one and others. They are precious, memory-making events and I cherish each and every moment.

The same is true with my Goldens. They are such individuals with distinct personalities that tend to blend together when they are all together in their pack. Taking walks, training for classes, snuggling on the couch or grooming with just one pup makes for special times.

Ranger has such a big heart! He loves everyone and lets them know. He has a knack for making people laugh and seems to be perpetually happy.

Lilly is my empath. She needs to be needed. When we are Therapy Dogging, she is on the lookout for someone who is hurting...and sweetly delivers love and comfort. At home, she is the alpha and runs the pack with an iron paw. With me, she is a love and only wants to be close.

Gus is a character! He is skittish, shy and a people-pleaser. He only wants to be a good boy, but at 18 months, that is sometimes a challenge. We adore his goofy personality and honor his cautious persona. He is such a gift.

Sam...Sam! This puppy is full of love and energy! He wants to please SO BADLY and will try everything to hear "Yes" or "Good Boy!" He often flops over on his back for a belly rub and needs constant attention and affection. He is love personified!

People have the same wonderful, individual descriptions. I could write about friends and family in a like manner. However, we often neglect to take the time to focus on that one important person...and they are ALL important!

Taking the time to have that individual time with those we care about is such a gift. A gift to them AND a gift to us! Even though life moves quickly along and most of us are in the fast lane, it might be a real treat to slow down, or even pull over and focus on those we love...one at a time.