July 4, 2017

White Dog raised a paw and the White Dog Army arrayed around the dog door began to sing as Zsofia walked through. She threw her head back to woo along then realized that her family was singing to HER!

Today is Zsofia's fourth birthday; she is a Yankee Doodle Baby. We are blessed to actually have baby pictures.

The White Dog Army has done a tremendous job raising the Itty Bitty Baby to be a strong member of the pack with a great heart.

At the Birthday Girl's request, we planned a day of cocooning from the bangs and booms of the holiday. We listened to lots of wonderful music to drown out the noises as we enjoyed the perfect coolness inside the house.

Our All-American Girl and White Dog planned a star-spangled birthday menu of grilled chicken and veggie kabobs, over a bed of kibble drizzled with coconut milk and topped with blueberries and strawberries. Of course, dessert was apple pie and a spoon of vanilla ice cream (with a dusting a tiny training peanut butter star treats).

Sachi helped Zso work off calories with a strenuous wrestling match. He claims to have even let her win because it was "her" day. They have had a special bond since her very first days.

 The Army chipped in for new birthday toys...

...but she had exclusive rights for only a few moments before her siblings demanded that she share.

As darkness fell, we drew the blinds and settled in for a marathon viewing of Mozart In the Jungle, louder than usual. Each pup was comfortable, settled in the bedroom with us and munching on a special Zso birthday treat...round steak bones. The distraction kept fear at bay as the neighborhood celebrated...in a different, louder fashion.

Happy Birthday, Darkest White Dog! We hope you know that you are loved and that we are all so very proud of the person you are.

Your family.