Wavy Dane

We all have that special little or big creature that has stolen our hearts. They are the best things to ever happen to us. Their loyalty, companionship and emotional support is beyond human comprehension. Yet we can still FEEL it. Can’t we? No matter the size or breed this sentient being has us wrapped around their paws. Dragging us in to give them one more treat, one more hug, one more walk. The big paw that has me wrapped around and around is whopping 130 pounds of love. When he first rescued me I found him drenched and muddy. But who cares? I didn’t. He slept in my bed that first night and hasn’t left since.

How can you pick one single favourite memory of your special fur-spirit? When I think of my Goliath, he holds so many meaningful moments. He has been with me through a lot. Losses. Joys. New love. Tragedies. New home. He is the canine Scooby Doo that will never ever grow up. From grabbing logs with his mouth and running wild all over the countryside. To dragging blankets through the house. He is notoriously known for getting into the garbage and going to town. Yet as he gracefully advances towards the 12 year mark, I can think of one salty memory instantly. The one that wraps him up into the sweet hug he is. Our beach trip. My boyfriend and I surprised him with a trip to Santa Cruz beach. Wait a minute..Isn’t everything to them is a surprise? Of course it is.

We loaded up and when it was time I asked him,”Do you want to go bye-bye?”Excitement shot through him from tail to nose. His ears flapping the entire drive and his drool already dried against the truck paint once we arrived. Like I said, who cares?

For lunch we stopped to eat at a taco place and the sun was the second thing to warm us. Goliath, beaming as he watched cars of families and motorcyclists passing by. I wonder what great things he must be thinking?

And SMELLING! We made our way down to the boardwalk greeting the business of the beach. Sliding down the sand we got to the waves and enjoyed the special moments with Goliath. We watched as he smelt the waves as they came close only to recede. Looking around he caught a glimpse of a dog, then another dog..and another! His huge spotted tongue drooping out of his mouth as he let out a noble bark! Barking and booming we couldn’t help but laugh at this goofy pup of ours. Everyone stared and yet had no idea (obviously) he has never been here before. His love for adventure so purely reminds me to do the same. Watching his big body bouncing around and taking in not just this new water world, but every moment in his life. Goliath is always surprised no matter if we are at home, the beach, getting ready for a walk, or to play fetch outside. Every memory I have of my boy makes me think of that innocence he possesses. The presentness he exhibited that day and everyday. I almost wish we could know what they are thinking. In the same breath I don’t, because who cares? They show us everyday, every special moment or beach trip..they mutually enjoy the life shared. Life mirrored through drool, tears & woofy hugs. The countless meaning we bring to their lives & them to ours. Can you imagine, only living less than 20 years? Less than 10? Or 5? No wonder everything is a surprise to him, I believe he has a sense of being present. Something tells me it is a blessing to be wrapped around their little or big paws. Their innocence and joyfulness in life reminds me to be internally youthful. Because we really are not guaranteed tomorrow. So take that beach trip, hike or walk with your special creature. To them it is heaven and to you, just a glimpse.