Confessions of a First Time Foster

Finally, the rain’s let up. The sun is shining and it’s nice and warm. The cornfield’s dry so I can open the windows, and it’s a great day for doggies to spend time outside.

Brother and Sister are happy to just stretch out on the driveway and let the sun warm their fur. Occasionally they jump up, tussle for fun, glance our way and then stretch out again. They’re still trying hard to ignore the puppy, but after seeing him through his reaction the other night, they’re showing signs that they might consider associating with him, on a trial basis, possibly, maybe.

Jackson and I wander around, and he pauses quite often to just take in the sights and smells. Suddenly, he stops.

Something has his rapt attention. At first I can’t tell what; I don’t see anything. Now he’s sitting, tilting his head from side to side. I see the object of his fascination — one of those little yellow butterflies, a few inches away from him. I was looking too far. I wasn’t appreciating the day on his level. It’s a reminder to simplify.

It’s also a realization. Jackson is mesmerized by the butterfly because he’s never seen one before. He’s only a few months old. His earliest memories are probably of the cage in the pet store…then the very brief time with his original owners…and now here. He probably hasn’t even seen a bunny or a squirrel, and he’s chewing on the different kinds of grass because he doesn’t know how they taste.

It’s all discovery.

It really makes you think.

But was he fascinated enough with being outside to poop there? No. So much for waxing philosophical.

Message from Kathy:

I have to tell you all about Lester. This morning I was taking a shower, and I did not close the door all the way. I felt something on my feet — Lester, he was just standing there with the water & soap all over him. Very funny!!! Usually it’s the kids bothering me, now I have to tell Lester to leave me alone in the bathroom.

Message from Marilyn:

JoAnne came over today and groomed Miss Darcy. We are both exhausted, but she looks beautiful.

Message from JoAnne:

Darcy is soooo sweet. It was funny how she strutted her self around the others when we were done, with her tail wagging and head held high. I love that part of grooming the best, when I can make them feel like a new doggie. You can see the happiness in her eyes. She is going to make someone a wonderful friend.