Day 566

Today was to be a day of preparation for our Christian Hill Progressive Dinner this weekend. About three hours into my lengthy list, I realized the pups had escaped out to the backyard TOGETHER! (They both know how to time an exit through that doggy door!) Realizing the gravity of the situation, due to above freezing temperatures and mud beyond that door, I ran outside to lure them in with a treat. They came barreling in and, no surprise, had acquired enough mud to make their Mama groan!

After taking a few swipes at them with a washcloth and brush, I realized the only choice was the shower! Now, I was in the midst of decorating and preparing the Santa Room for our youngest guests, but everything came to a crashing halt when Sam and Gus entered the kitchen more black than golden!

Into the shower we went. First Sam, followed by Gus, entered their least favorite place in the house. Of course, I needed to be in there as well and kept reminding them that this was NOT my first choice of a productive, fun afternoon. However, they are so adorable that pretty soon, we were singing, laughing and finding all of those places that needed a little extra scratch or two. After Gus was washed and rubbed down, I looked at Ranger and Lilly and decided they might as well join the club!

Full disclosure: I do NOT do well with a sudden change in plans! If it is not on the "To Do List," it takes me a moment or two to readjust my plans and attitude. On the surface, I am calm and pliable, but within there is turmoil. Through the years (elementary students, my own children, dogs, parents...) you would think that a change in the order of the day would be par for the course. It has gotten much easier to "monitor and adjust" (a nod to son Jimmy and his life motto), so today was a real test of my growth.

By the time I gathered all of the shampoos, conditioners, ear wash, towels and other miscellaneous necessities, my attitude was far more loving and understanding. The Goldens are so adorable...even soaking wet! I couldn't help smiling and counting my lucky stars that they are my "kids."

After about an hour of spa treatment, with my assistant Mac at my side (outside the shower that is), the task was done to perfection. All four were clean, mostly dry and smelling like flowers. Now...if I had only had that on my "To Do List" in the first place, all would have been even better!!!