Day 798
Freedom is a wonderful thing,,, just ask Lilly! Now that Ranger and Lilly have slowed down a bit, they get a few privileges not shared with their puppy brothers. The seniors are allowed to roam the driveway area under the watchful eyes of their Mama. Their “recall” isn’t what it used to be (Ranger has selective hearing), so we are on “intruder watch” whenever they are free.
Another favorite guilty pleasure for the Goldens is access to our Secret Garden. This area, which embraces our gazebo and Asher’s hidden pathway, is typically off limits to the pack due to some sweet bunnies living under the structure. Every once in awhile, we open the gate and allow them to enter. They are beyond excited to race around, sniff, roll on the lawn and put their noses through the wrought iron fence leading to more adventures. It is their version of “Fantasy Island!"
We all enjoy freedom. Humans were born to push horizons, explore the unknown and discover amazing adventures. It gives life that added zest and fulfillment.
As a child, in our wonderful Christian Hill Neighborhood, I remember pushing the limits for adventures. One distinct memory has our gang biking down to the Mississippi River where we discovered the best fort on the planet…at least in our eyes. To access this “fort," we would scramble down a hill and enter a LONG tunnel. Crawling on hands and knees, we would finally exit into a small concrete room. What could go wrong? Taking a couple of our parents along to view our treasure, we discovered it was a gutter to help rain water flow from the street into the river! Of course, my father gently persuaded us to abandon this adventure for safety reasons. Sadly, we bid it a fond farewell.
When I go biking in that area, I always look at that small window leading to our discovery from long ago. I always smile at the memory of my relief when losing that particular freedom. It was a tight fit for this claustrophobic girl!!!
There are times when our freedom-loving spirits lose sight of danger. On those occasions, it is with grateful hearts that we walk away…not out of a cowardly heart…but safe in the hands of someone who wants to keep us protected. This allows us to pursue a longer life with less risky freedoms… and who doesn’t want that?!
