Tuesday was Ground Hog Day. Punxsutawney Phil came 
out and saw his shadow, signaling six more weeks of winter. I think what really happened was that he popped out, saw what was going on and decided to go back to sleep.
Let’s face it. This past year has been like the movie Ground Hog Day. We seem to be going through the same tedious motions and emotions over and over again. It takes a little more effort to break out and do something upbeat.
Wednesday, we had a Zoom call with the kids in neuropsych at UCLA which made me snap out of it. They love it when Gus and Stanley are in costume so I considered dressing them as ground hogs
ELBEE Is she serious?
Since I have no idea how to accessorize a ground hog, I thought it would probably be better to celebrate Valentines Day a little early. Coincidentally, I had seen a TV segment about how to “groom for Zoom,” and they had suggested red as a good color to wear. This was a win/win situation.
When we logged in for our visit, Stanley’s red sunglasses and feather boa caught the kids’ attention. I couldn’t help myself and was wearing a red shirt and hat for the occasion. When I switched the hat to Stanley and played who wore it better, they immediately voted for him.
ELBEE Shocker
Gus danced for the kids in his valentine neck 
ruffle. Stanley, who competes for screen time, immediately came over to do his version of dancing. This involves standing up and putting his paws on my shoulders. It looks so ridiculous that it makes everyone laugh.
STANLEY Hey, I love Dancing With the Stars and have picked up some moves.
When the kids laughed, even at my expense, it was music to my ears. Since they really seemed to be engaged, I asked if anyone would sing while we danced. I got a few takers. When I went so far as to see if they thought we were ready for America’s Got Talent, there were some big smiles and a few giggles followed by a smattering of applause. Maybe there’s still hope.
ELBEE She started the applause.
What touched me the most was a little boy who wanted to know if I would bring Gus and Stanley into the hospital to see him. It made me realize just how desperately we all miss that personal and canine interaction. As much as I love dressing them up for Zoom, the day that we can walk into UCLA with them wearing only their official PAC bandanas, will be a cause for celebration. The blue and gold scarves will be better than any feather boas or hats…well almost.
