Introduction

This is a blog dedicated to those dogs that have touched our lives. Some are still with us, and others are memories. Consider this blog as a way of releasing endorphins without exercising! My first memories of childhood include my dog, a mixed breed, named Dottie. My Dad told me in later years that I had picked out the runt of the litter and possibly the homeliest puppy as well! She was white, long haired, with large black and orange spots and a bob tail! But what comes to mind when I think of her, is her sweet face. She would cock her head and listen to everything I had to say. Living on a farm, and being much younger than my siblings she was my constant companion. She saw me through my brothers leaving home for the armed services, my sister moving away, and my transition from country school to public. As if on cue, she left me as I entered my teen years. Growing up included missing sharing life with a dog. When our children were young, we planned for a family dog. The opportunity came when a co-worker had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies. The kids kept a running list on the fridge of possible dog names; one list for each of them so the right child would get credit for the name of course. We had the male pup home for two days before a decision could be made. Incidentally, the same number of days my husband and I took to name our newborn son! The new family member would be called "Doggie Junior" using a name from each list. I offered, "Auggie Doggie Junior". It was a hit. Auggie also became known as "August", "Augustus", and "Honey Dog". Eleven years of stolen socks, visits to the neighbors compost, jumping off the dock, chasing tennis balls, and stuffed animals provided glorious memories for our family. Two months after his passing, our vet suggested we "just check out" an "oops" litter of Golden Retriever/Yellow Lab pups. How does one visit puppies and not take one home? Exactly. Today we have "Buckshot", known as "Buck", "Mister Mister", and "Buckles". He is a leaping, licking, twirling bundle of love that loves his life. Just what two empty-nesters need to keep the endorphins going. As Auggie used to say, "Pet me! Release the orphins!" (He wasn't always good at getting the right terminology!) Now let's hear about your dog(s) and "release the orphins!"