It’s hard to believe this special pair is celebrating their seventh birthday today! They have brought so much joy into our lives.
Lily, with her happy-go-lucky personality and propensity for eating all things that aren’t good for her, is always full of surprises. On her fifth birthday, she landed in the emergency veterinary hospital after consuming an entire bunch of grapes! And, the entertainment she provides as we watch in disbelief at the skill she exhibits catching snakes as they slither out from under the stone step by the dog door, unaware that Lily-the-Snake-Catcher waits silently by. Lily loves to be out in the back with Annie, hunting for wild creatures on the hill. The two of them can be out together for hours, silently gazing into the woods, but give Lily a call and she’s at the door instantly with a happy-go-lucky look on her face. She keeps me smiling – and laughing at her antics!
King is a love bug. As soon as I sit down on the sofa or armchair, he propels his body through the air and lands right on my lap, both paws around my neck and snuggles right in. As much as his 75 lbs. body starts to feel a bit heavy after 10-15 minutes, I simply don’t have the heart to move this loving soul. He’s so in sync with the way I’m feeling… he’s always right by my side watching me. While I’m working at my desk, he’s lying by – or on top of – my feet. In many ways, he’s like my beloved James – just happy to be with me. He’s aptly named King.
Both Lily and King are Bright Spot therapy dogs. They work as Reading Buddies at two elementary schools here in western Massachusetts. They love working with children and the children adore them. When Tuesdays and Thursdays arrive, they’re in their element when suited up in their blue therapy dog vests, jumping in the car and heading to school. Once in their uniforms, Lily, the snake-catcher, and King, the snuggle-bug, shift into Reading Buddy mode poised to listen attentively as one-by-one children read stories to them.
Not to be left out, Annie has been chief party planner in charge of the birthday celebration. Each got a new collar – Lily’s an elegant peacock motif, appropriate for her striking appearance; King’s a geometric design, a masculine variety for him. Those went on right away, replacing the much-worn old ones. For the treat, their favorite: broccoli and carrot sticks. Partying in their honor will go on all day… and every day. Every day with our dogs is a special day!