Day 578

Friends come to us in many ways, but many of our newest friends come by way of the "Doggy Path". When you walk with Goldens, your interactions with people are many and rich in nature.

Walking our pups a couple of years ago, we waved at a man across the street sitting out in his yard. Soon a good natured Minnesota banter took place.

"Nice dogs!"

"Thank you! We are very lucky to have them."

"Great night for a walk!"

"Yes, the pups love this weather."

"We are going to have to tuck this day away and pull it out next January!"

"You betcha!"

Since the Goldens were already "wagging their feather dusters" and leaning towards the man's yard, we headed over to, unknowingly, start a new friendship. Bob turned out to be an amazing guy who loves dogs and old cars. Mac thought it was a match made in Heaven!

Today, Asher jumped into his jeep for an early morning jaunt. Gus and I were in close pursuit when, suddenly, the motor killed. Propping the hood open, we looked inside to see a variety of wires that looked fine...maybe. Asher said, "Hey Nanny, don't touch those...you could hurt yourself!" After that role reversal, I pulled out my phone to call "The Lone Ranger" (Mac), who said he would be right down to pick us up.

Suddenly, our friend Bob was walking down his driveway to lend a hand. He admitted he was better with old cars, but helped load the jeep into the Subaru as soon as Mac arrived. It's good to have friends in many places!

Years ago, my parents took us to Powder Ridge to do some downhill skiing. On the very first run, I took a tumble and knew there would be no second run that day. Hobbling into the chalet where my parents waited, Mom and Dad attempted to remove the boot to no avail. Suddenly, a familiar voice said, "What's going on here? Let me take a look!" It was our doctor from Anoka! He removed the boot (ouch), examined the ankle (ouch) and deemed it a bad sprain. What are the chances you doctor does that kind of "house call?"

Another time when a someone was there at the right time was a few years ago. At a luncheon, I mentioned that we were looking for a Golden puppy. My dear friend, Trish, said that her son had just come up from Florida to visit and had bought a puppy over in the neighboring town. I called the breeders and they had two potential pups left...welcome Ranger and Lilly! Serendipity is a beautiful thing!

There have been many serendipitous times with friends who have magically come to our aid without blinking an eye. All of these friendships started with a moment of connection years ago...or not so long ago. I feel blessed by every one of them.