Day 354
This arrived in the mail today and it now hangs on the wall! I have six frames on the Honor Wall which get updated whenever the pups achieve their next "degree" or award.
Arthur's was hung on the wall first. That boy became a Therapy Dog at six and still did over 150 visits. Nicki, our rescue shiatzu, became a Therapy Dog at 12! He made so many people happy! Lilly is approaching her 350th visit and Gus and Sam are in training! Whew!
Today, I had the distinct pleasure of being interviewed, regarding my writing, by a 4th grade student (actually two amazing kids) at Eisenhower Elementary. He is in a program that guides gifted and talented children and places no ceiling on their learning. One of the questions he asked me was, "What are you passionate about and does it infiltrate your writing?" (Yes, this from a nine-year-old) Without hesitation, my answer was Therapy Dog work. When that response so quickly flowed forth, I knew it to be true.
When I look back on my adventures with the Goldens (and Nicki), I am humbled beyond words. Even though I know other people benefit from interactions with the dogs, it is I who really receives the gift...the one that makes my heart grow with each visit.
I have been blessed to:
Read with blossoming readers
Hear stories from WWII vets
Help with the transition at end-of-life situations
Support families who have a loved one in the hospital
Bring some light to patients in the hospital
Help my pups educate others about volunteering
Visit Girl Scouts
Share my books at schools and other venues (With a pup by my side)
Help some of the needs in the mental health community
Bring smiles to lonely seniors...
The list goes on and on. Although it looks like we are on the giving side of things, what we get in return is immeasurable. I have made such amazing friends and my heart has been touched every single day by the work my Goldens do. It is my passion because it fills me up to overflowing.
As always, the dogs are the true gift. Without them, I would be a pretty boring show! They are the ones who work the crowd, comfort those who are in need and bring smiles to everyone they see. I am beyond lucky to have them in my life...I truly am only at the other end of the leash!
