Day 891

I was “Dog Tired” this morning! Late to bed, too much on my mind and an early wake-up call from Mr. Sam led to a sleepy morning, finding me shuffling through the usual routine without any vim or vigor! Coffee didn’t even help the cause!

Heading over to Walker with Lilly gave me a moment or two to ‘come to life’ before our first visit. On the walk down, my eyes and heart began to slowly open as I took in the beautiful leaves and the crisp, fall air.

We have a friend who works at a nearby school on the way to Walker. When we walk past, I always look to see if she might be arriving or near a window. It is unbelievable how often our paths cross by happenstance. Today was no exception. This dear lady has had a true battle with cancer and, lately, ‘the wins’ have not been on her side. Today, she had good news to share! The infection in her lungs, surrounding her cancer, had diminished on its own! The doctors simply shake their heads and say it is a true miracle! My heart seemed lighter already!

After hugs, Lilly and I set off again towards our destination. Through the lobby and up to the top floor of Walker we went. We must have greeted thirty or forty residents on our way to our fourth floor stop. Smiles, treats and hand-holding ensued. My steps felt less labored and my smile genuine!

Our dear “adopted brother," Sonny, was so excited to see us. Last week, we had offered to rearrange his living room so he could see the television better. Having lost his sweet wife recently, he just couldn’t seem to rally enough to go through the multitude of papers and boxes overtaking the apartment. I asked if he wanted me to start moving things and he apologetically declined. He just didn’t have the energy. By now, I had filled the empty part of my own “cup” and told him I had enough energy for both of us! It wasn’t long before I had moved some furniture and organized a few boxes. He had been overwhelmed, but now said he had new energy to tackle the clutter!

My energy level was going up by the minute! A quick stop to see our beloved “Harmonica Man,” a check in to help our dear Mrs. L. clean out her refrigerator for the pups and a few more visits led us to our exit. It was time to go, but I could have stayed for hours!

When we do Therapy Dog visits, I almost always leave with a fuller heart. From senior citizens to elementary students and friends in between, the gifts I receive far outweigh anything we offer in return. Just today, I heard of a miracle, organized a living space, cleaned out a refrigerator and witnessed so many smiles and felt the love. More than once, people have asked how much I get paid to bring my dogs. My answer is always, “ If you mean money, we receive nothing, but if you are referring to other commodities, the love shared so freely far exceeds any monetary amount in the world!"

As for the Goldens, they only ask for affection and a treat now and then! Priceless!