Life-Affirming

Such good fortune.  Meeting up one recent morning with a friend on the seawall.  Walking and talking for hours.  Spending that afternoon with two of Kelly's closest friends.  Sharing stories and memories.  The following day, seeing Michael's best friend.  Dropping by here for a short visit.  Later, feasting with my husband and another couple. Making tentative vacation plans over an exquisite evening meal. Yesterday, walking the leaf strewn trail with one daughter and her puppy.  Relishing the energies of the sun and wind together.  Today, meeting up for a late lunch with the other.  Spending precious time with one another.  Numerous life-affirming moments over the course of a few days.  Giving much needed balance to the melancholy ones. 

Lovable Being

Puppy energy.  A chocolate lab's curiosity, intelligence, and enthusiasm for life.  Up for whatever is going on.  This is what Barrett shares with me this week.  Staying here while his pack takes a much needed holiday to rejuvenate and restore.  My routines happily adjusted to accommodate this lovable fur covered being.   

My Grandpuppy Arrives

Life goes on. I now have a chocolate lab grandpuppy to enjoy spending time with, a distant relative of Diesel's, as of yet unnamed.  He is a chubby bundle of joy, keenly exploring the world around him with such confidence. His new pack will ensure that he has healthy food, opportunity to play and exercise, fresh air, clean water, a comfortable place to sleep, access to medical care, and caregivers he can trust.  The love and resources that are bestowed upon this and so many family pets in my community far surpasses what so many children only dream of.  This is a good reminder for me to take action today and help a less fortunate child enjoy a better quality of life.