2.13.2014

February 13, 2014

White Dog’s arrival nine years ago changed our lives in unexpected ways. While the rest of the world celebrates Valentine’s Day tomorrow, with hearts and flowers and cupids, White Dog Army Ranch celebrates My Girl’s Gotcha Day. There is no less focus on love and beautiful sentiment, except ours involve white floof and buffalo steaks.

WD was not intended to be a Valentine’s Baby. She came to us from Kansas and the airlines would only allow her to fly if the temperature fell within a strict range. After two unsuccessful dates, the 14th proved to be the charm.

And charmed I was. Steve had recovered her at the airport and rushed to pick me up from class. When he placed that tiny white ball of white silk and big black unwavering eyes into my hands, I handed over my soul.

If you are blessed there are a few moments in your life that are so perfect and magical that you truly KNOW the Universe sends miracles to forever fill your every fiber and to always give you reasons for hope, determination and gratitude.

Finding Steve was like that. So was Siku’s arrival in my life.

Not a second has passed since we met at the parking lot of the school that I not felt her connection and faith and confidence. We have grown and evolved and weathered some mighty storms. We joyous embraced life and found a mission. We have danced in the rain and grew an incredible family...together.

This Blog is the result of her influence. And my recovery from congestive heart failure where I did actually die. The White Dog Army exists because of her. She is the one who sits up with me when my mind whirls and I cannot sleep. It is her fur I cry into and her face I kiss with happiness.

WD has taught me to be a parent, both a fur momma and a human one--demanding but fair…and always quick with praise. She has allowed the constant attention that comes from being an only child to wander as her older siblings make health demands and her younger ones have adjustment needs. From her I have learned to be more flexible and genuine and not to put off taking the time to say “I love you,” or “thanks,” or “I am sorry.”

So tomorrow when the entire world is in love with love, the White Dog Army, Steve and I will be having our own unique love fest…Happiest of Gotcha Days, Siku Marie, The White Dog, Leader of The White Dog Army and Momma’s Daemon.


I hope you feel as lucky as we all do that you are a part of our lives, Little White Dog of My Heart.

9 comments:

The Slimmer Pugs, Kitties, and Mama said...

Happy Gotcha Day Siku Marie!! AND MANY MORE!!
Much Luvums,
The Slimmer Puggums
George, Toby, Lily, & Mimi

Angel Ginger Jasper said...

I thought this post was just so very beautiful and so from the heart. Happy Gotcha day beautiful Siku and happy love day to you all. I know your lives are full of love and that is in itself beautiful xx

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

What a beautiful tribute to Siku Marie! Goosebumps for sure. She was just meant to come into your lives on Valentines Day..the day of love. Couldn't have happened on a better day! :)

Happy Gotcha Day pretty girl!

TimberLove said...

Happy gotcha day my furiend, so honored to share your journeys,

RA, Isis & Nanük

♥♥ The OP Pack ♥♥ said...

Happy Gotcha Day to the sweet little girl, Siku Marie!!! there is no doubt that she is loved - love just oozes from your posts and your whole family. Have a wonderful day.

Woos - Phantom, Ciara, and Lightning

Random Felines said...

Happy Gotcha Day Siku Marie!!! We know that your arrival was a blessing as much as you continue to be to your family and the rest of us. purrs

Brian's Home Blog said...

Happy Gotcha Day beautiful Siku Marie!!!

Little Reufus said...

Habby Gotcha Day Siku Marie!!! What a beautiful tribute... and a wonderful way teu celebrate Love!!!

wif lubbs from Little Reufus

haopee said...

Yes, Siku is a special girl. She is your love dog and you are her forever human.

I am glad you found that special one for her. I guess, I found mine in Chooey and Peanuts.

It is nice to have such a realization from the moment you've met them. I am happy for you and Siku.

Happy Gotcha Day, WDA Commander!