December 22, 2013

White Dog is nine today. When she arrived my heart was frozen and I still grieved the loss of our Sheltie, Sheena. This little 3lbs of floof would have a hard task melting me enough to risk such pain ever again…or so I thought.

On the Valentine’s Day she arrived (chance not planning); Steve greeted me after my class by reaching into the back seat and then placing a handful of white silk and soul stealing black eyes into my hands. The eight-week old looked at me with such depth and perception that I had to look away from her intensity. She nestled her head under my chin and sighed. In that instant she became “Siku” (ice in Athabascan) AND my daemon (in classical mythology a spirit guide and a soul’s connection between divine and mortal). There was no decision made or ever doubt; it just was. She thawed my heart. She is my soul mate.

White Dog is the only member of the White Dog Army for whom we have baby pictures. There was no WDA then, nor did we know anything much about the numbers of needy pups who need forever homes. These photos have only recently been scanned from old fashioned prints (how times have changed).

When I look across the past nine years, I am amazed at how quickly the time has passed. It scares me a little considering the lifespan of a dog. It fills me with wonder considering the length and diversity of the journey we have shared. I do not think either of us could have guessed our path on that first day as I held her. But I do know that neither of us would change any of it…White Dog because that is not the nature of dogs and me because I could not have been blessed with a wiser, more loyal, or more understanding partner who has helped me become a better human by being unwaveringly at my side through good and bad.

You have been a part of her growing up on these posts. You know what an elegant, loving leader she is. You know her moods and moments. You know her wisdom and compassion. You know her sassy stubborn side.

And I hope it is apparent how cherished and respected and pampered she is by me, Steve, each of the White Dogs, and Michael. I promised not to wax too long or cause myself to get weepy (one out of two anyway); this is a day of celebration and family and doing what comes naturally to the WDA…reaching out to help those in need.

They say you can tell how much a being is loved by the number of nicknames they have. So join us as we wish my Baby Girl, the Little White Dog of My Heart, Siku Marie, Her Highness, Leader of the Pack, The Queen, Beautiful Lady, The Boss, Little Fox, Silky, Beautiful Runner (there are more but My Girl would rather I not share ALL of her secrets today) a Happy Birthday! We only wish you could all join us for tonight’s feast in honor of White Dog…lamb shanks, triple crème brie spread on crusty French bread, sweet potatoes, buttery green beans, and of course cake with pistachio ice cream!

The White Dog Army has helped Steve make the carrot-zucchini cake and have made a special poster announcing their gift of warm blankets for pups and kitties in rescue. WD will be thrilled by both. They are confident that our community will spread the word so that they will get the 48 comments necessary to “buy” the case of blankets for Animal Crackers Senior Dog Hospice and for Fat Katz Rescue…and they thank you.

On this anniversary of one of the happiest days of our lives, the day you were born, we wish you, Siku Marie, a very long, healthy life, filled with bounty to share and opportunities to make a difference. We love you! Happy Birthday…your family