Day 96
8/18/22
Is it wrong to love the smell of wet dogs? If it is, I am SOOOO guilty!
Looking at the radar, I decided it was now or never for that evening walk with my golden babies. We walked through the raindrops and kept our heads low. I think I was more soaked than the pups, but they do tend to repel water! Lilly and Ranger came in and stood by the door to wait for me to get the towels. Gus was wet too, but he chose to dry himself with the "zoomies" instead of savoring a warm towel. They are now snuggled in downstairs watching some Hallmark show with Mac. Happy babies!
During our walk in the rain, we passed the home where Diamond once lived. My heart would ache each time I passed the driveway and see her forlorn doghouse in the back yard. I knew she was tied up there and it broke my heart. No more! Tonight, I know she is dry, loved and cozied up on some amazing doggy bed. Dear Charlean has made certain of that! She sent me an update on that sweet senior and "Lady Di" has lost four pounds (21 more to go), the hot spots are receding, her eye infection has resolved and the ugly marks from her collar have all but disappeared. Our friend has assured us that this most fortunate dog is doing just fine. She sleeps on orthopedic dog beds throughout the house, has access to a doggy door with her pack and has actually started playing with the other dogs in the back yard. She takes long walks with four of her other buddies (Charlean is amazing!) and has more toys than any dog could want. It is only what she deserves. Thank you, Old Barkers!
After our walk in the rain, I realized how lucky I am to be inside, warm and...almost dry! Comfort is certainly something we all seek. For me, once I have the basic needs met, I look for soft blankets, a cup of coffee and a good book. Ahhh...that's a beautiful thing.
My husband has a different view of comfort. Being a Vietnam Vet at 19, he found himself wading through swamps and trudging though the jungle for hours on end. He might even sleep in the rain IN a flooded rice patty for safety. His idea of comfort is simply warm, dry socks. Every time my feet get wet during yard work or walking with goldens in the rain, I think of that man and know he appreciates simple comforts more than I can ever understand. I humbly thank every service member I see with a "Thank you for your service" or a "Welcome Home".
I am going to go downstairs now and tuck my feet under a warm golden retriever. When I do, I will count my many blessings and think of those in the armed services...past and present... who allow me to find the comforts in life. Thank you!
