Day 386
Today was a big day at our house! Our Lilly and Ranger turned 10! After Ranger shared some love at Mercy Hospital, the rest of the day was dedicated to these two Birthday Pups!
Happy Meals and Pup Cups for the all the Goldens were a hit! Extra time outside, extra scratches in just the right place, extra hugs and extra love was all centered on our two elders. They seemed to know something special was going on and wagged their tails most of the day!
Birthdays can be viewed in so many ways. When we are children, the excitement of parties and presents are front and center. In the teenage years, birthdays can mean a "right of passage" for driving and other freedoms. As a young mom, I vaguely recall a few of my birthdays, but the focus was blissfully on the children. Now, it seems the years fly by, but each one is more precious than ever.
There are those who refrain from sharing their actual age. Not me! I will tell anyone that I am 68 and my gratitude is overwhelming! Getting older is a privilege and I never take it for granted.
Our Therapy Dog work with senior citizens (I guess I am one as well!), finds us coming upon those who are nearing the century mark. Each of their years is a gift to us! I find myself drawn to their wisdom and acceptance of whatever life delivers. I learn so much with each visit. Ranger and Lilly only know that these friends are less likely to move quickly and step on a paw...otherwise, they notice nothing different about the elderly.
As we celebrate the birthdays of our precious Goldens, I look back to the beginning of their journey with us.
When we saw the litter in Maple Grove and met the amazing family who loved them from day one, Mac and I decided we wanted one of the females. Stopping back to pay the family, they asked if we knew of someone who might want a male. Mac looked at me, smiled and asked them if we could get a deal for two! I was shocked! Our third trip to Stephanie Puppy Mama's home (the wonderful breeder) was when we brought Jimmy and Katie to bring them home. My twins knew we were going to get Lilly, but we surprised them with Ranger as well. They still talk about their disbelief when Lilly was handed to Katie and then, magically, Ranger was offered to Jimmy. It was the best surprise ever!
These two Goldens have touched countless lives as they approach a combined 700 visits to different venues. They have comforted and entertained so many and made life-long friends along the way. Being on the other end of the leash, the Golden's friends have become mine as well...what an incredible gift.
Today, we celebrate these two amazing dogs. They humble us with their devotion and make us better people simply by us being in their presence. Happy Birthday Ranger and Lilly! On your big day, YOU are the gift given to so many! We love you!
