Since I stopped writing my weekly blog, I realize there are times I miss oversharing. Also, selfishly, I don’t want to forget special moments.
This post is a few weeks late for Thanksgiving, but do we really need one particular day to celebrate gratitude? It was inspired by my grandkids and the Doods.
ELBEE Not necessarily in that order.
Dogs truly are man and woman’s best friends. Despite knowing everything about us, they are faithful, loyal and loving without judging.
ELBEE Trust me. We judge.
As for grandchildren, they are one of the perks of having kids. They bring so much joy without all of the responsibility. They may judge me a little but will write things off to my being “crazy grandma.”
For instance, I have an unfortunate habit of laughing hysterically at inappropriate times, like funerals. During Thanksgiving dinner, 9 year old Ryder requested we go around the table and tell what we were grateful for, something we have often done in the past. Then he added that it was because he wanted to see grandma crack up. Yes, it’s one of those serious moments where I feel on the spot and lose it. Trust me, I didn’t disappoint.
Ryder used to be terrified of dogs even though he’d never had a negative interaction. A year or so ago, Henry with his soulful eyes and gentle demeanor, somehow reached him. On the back of Henry’s UCLA trading card, his greatest accomplishment is listed as “Helping Ellen’s grandson overcome his fear of dogs.”
Ryder has gone from overcoming his fear to really being comfortable with the dogs. On Thanksgiving he decided that he wanted a holiday picture with them. His sister Bella, a very willing participant, was included. Knowing my stash of dog accessories, he couldn’t wait to dress up, or should I say decorate, everyone. He actually was the “art director” for the photo that motivated this post.
It touched my heart to watch Ryder, who used to run away from the dogs or scream when they came too close, picking out headbands and glasses for each of them. It was such chaotic delight.
I also have to give kudos to Stanley, Gus and Henry for their patience. It may be the magic of their therapy dog energy that made it all possible.
