Cheers to 12 years!

If you have ever wanted a dog, this post is for you. Our Golden has been a foot warmer, a stress reliever, an exercise buddy, and a listening ear, so it's hard to believe our first "baby" turns 12 today! She has been through all of our ups and downs with us...the selling of a house, the building of a house, the births of all 3 girls, new jobs, new cars, celebrations of friends and family, the loss of friends and family...she has supported us through it all! When we first got Daisy I was in love with her floppy ears and clumsy steps. She was trouble from day 1 with her chewing and destroying, but as she grew she would greet us at the end of each day and melt away our stress with a simple nuzzle. For the first 5-6 years she was a fabulous jogging partner and has kept us safe from numerous people and dogs that we have encountered on our goals to fitness. Though she has never been the fondest of other dogs, I have no doubt that it's only because she's trying to keep her people safe. There is no question that she is Marks dog first, but last week as we questioned if this would be her last few days, I realized what an amazing addition she has been to our family. What a relief that she has made it through the last really rough week, and is back to her normal self again. 

Though no one could ever match Mark, Norah and Daisy seem to have one of the strongest connections. Norah will wrestle her, use her for a pillow, dress her up, drink tea with her, and Daisy just plays along. Even as she ages she still lets Norah crawl all over her which I'm sure can't feel great on her aging body. 

Grace is my go-to girl if I need someone to help out so it doesn't go unnoticed by Daisy that many days after school Grace is the one to let her out, feed her, and is the first one to really greet her at the end of the day. She will follow Grace room to room and she is the first girl she runs to if she thinks something is wrong.

Daisy has been a kind soul in listening to our emerging readers as well. Emma and Daisy have become little reading buddies since I can't always sit and listen to her read. I think Em really likes having someone listen and not make any comments if she stumbles on a word or two.