November 18, 2012

White Dog stood on Steve's chest on the bed and summoned the entire White Dog Army around. "Today we are going to celebrate, a thanksgiving if you will. This has been a tough week and we have gotten through it. Together we are pretty awesome; we have been so blessed to find each other so, Dad, Let's start the day with a breakfast party!" The White Ones milled toward the door and Steve followed to create our special feast. Moving more slowly behind, I heard pans rattling, the refrigerator opening and closing and the sound of many helpers assisting Steve.

By the time I came out to the living room I could smell coffee brewing, and bacon on the griddle. White Dog extracted herself from the kitchen help and sat with me on the chair. "Look at how happy everyone is," she pointed out. "Dad is singing and the Army is wagging like crazy. It is going to be a delicious breakfast!"

White Dog had not lied, breakfast was a yummy combination of all the favorites: heavily creamed coffee for YoYoMa, Oso and I; bagels with cream cheese (Quinn's pick); scrambled eggs (Nuka and Puff's addition); granola with yogurt (added by Steve and WD)...and bacon for every one. Devoured to a background of gentle jazz music and the sound of leaves skittering outside the window. We lingered together, drowsily long after the food was gone.

Quinn looked out of the window and after while and suggested that it was a good day for a trip to the Park to run and crunch and roll. He indicated that while he was not up for the ride, that it would make him happy knowing the rest of the WDA had the opportunity to play in the autumn sunlight while he napped.

Each of the pups had to check with The Other White Dog personally to make sure it was truly his wish and once convinced, each excitedly harnessed up and rushed to the car. The Park provided a much needed release as White Dog flowed the length of the Park and did zoomies at top speed. YoYoMa took Steve for a prancing trot in pursuit, then burrowed into a pile of leaves sending them heavenward in an explosion of puppiness.  Puff stretched like the ladies we saw in Parks in Beijing, martial arts type moves that highlighted her gracefulness in the flickering sunlight. Nuka and Oso strolled along together sharing smells and exploring under the pine trees.

 

Spent, the WDA loaded back into the car but stopped Steve before he turned on the ignition. "Can we stop and pick up some ice cream?" Nuka asked. "Quinn loves ice cream and we all would like to bring him back a special thank you." Steve smiled in pride at our pack and headed to the grocery.

When he returned and set the bag on the back seat, every one had to take a look. "Pumpkin is a marvelous choice," White Dog commended, "seasonal, delicious and one of all of our favorites." Back home, Quinn was sleeping in the office so while Steve quietly went to the kitchen to prepare treats, the others made gentle "we're home" noises to waken but not startle their brother. Shortly, Quinn came groggily into the living room and the celebration began anew.

We hope each of you starts your new week with a chance to refresh and revitalize and share a bit of relaxation with those you love!