Decked out in his jingle bell collar and Santa’s Helper bandanna, Bright Spot Therapy Dog James headed over to the nursing home to spread some holiday cheer. His red collar jingled as he walked and his tail wagged the entire time as he made his rounds. Everyone was expecting him – Thursday is his day!
His special friend Ruth met us in the main corridor, as she does each Thursday morning. Here comes James, she called out as he turned the corner from the lobby. You’re all dressed up for Christmas! Ruth proceeded to tell us all about her Christmas plans. My children take care of everything – they’re wonderful. They’ll take me home for Christmas and I’ll get to see my grandchildren and they’ll make lots of good food to eat. I’m so excited! she exclaimed, laughing and smiling throughout her story. And, let me tell you about Thanksgiving, she continued. They prepared a huge feast. It was wonderful. I didn’t have to do a thing. I’m so proud of my children and my grandchildren!
Before James and I continued on our rounds, Ruth looked at me and said very seriously, I hope Santa’s got something special for James – because he’s such a wonderful dog. Then, looking at James, she said, When I see you next week James, I’ll tell you all about my Christmas.
Ruth is lucky because her family lives locally. She will go home for the day and return to the nursing home at bedtime. Many of the folks here have the good fortune of having family nearby and, if they are physically able, like Ruth, will go home for the holidays. Being around family brings such joy and evokes many happy memories of holidays past. I know they’ll all have lots to tell James next week when he visits.
Just love seeing James warming hearts and providing those in need with some ES love & caring. I had his brother Walker, and miss him SO much, (sadly, I lost him at age 6 ), it just makes my heart feel good “seeing at him through James.” <3 Walker would have been a wonderful therapy dog as well, I'm sure.
Kim – it’s so nice to hear from you. I had James’ sister Julia, as well. She was a sweetheart, too, like James – and a fabulous therapy dog. No doubt Walker would have been a wonderful therapy dog… it’s in their genes. So sorry you lost him so young. We lost Julia at age 8 and miss her so much. They were a fun pair!