Saturday, August 24, 2013

a camp visit

Off on another service dog adventure!!! We were invited to a camp for wounded veterans and their families.... what a beautiful spot this was. Each year this camp is open to veterans and their families as a place to "escape" and to relax and try new things. The directors of the camp are becoming more aware and interested in service dogs... and that is how we were asked to visit.....
There are small cabins around the grounds that house the guests...but the main lodge is used for dining, special events, and just a place to sit back and enjoy....
I could have curled up in a sun spot and just stayed there all day.....
There is a real peace around here, but it's also as "busy" as one chooses it to be. Swimming, boating, games, food... things that can be a challange as well as a retreat....
Four dogs went.. Otis, Moxie, Rayvan and Debbie... all being labs... let's just say... staying OUT of the water was it's own challenage!!!
We talked with a lot of the veterans... some of them knew about service dogs.. and others weren't so sure. I think that there were at least four veterans who were seriously interested in the idea of getting a dog... all for various reasons, but it felt good to give them the information and resources as to where they can find dogs.. and learn about the "work" that a dog can do.....(Debbie ran out of steam before we were done!!!)
This is Grizzly... he belongs to one of the directors and is a certified therapy dog... his handler said he makes a big difference to the guests at the camp.... (he was a real sweetie pie too)....
There were three service dogs camping with their handlers... one turned out to be a NEADS dog!!!! we had a great time meeting with him and his handler. This gentleman couldn't say enough good things about service dogs in general and of course NEADS!!!! They have been a team for four years, and we heard the greatest stories!!!!
I never knew such a place exsisted... and it was so great to see it in action. Just one small way to say thank you to those who have served, and a place where veterans can go and help to heal their wounds....
The next few days we spent back at our camp... true to a busy summer, we haven't been there nearly enough this year.... maybe some day.. life will "slow down" a bit... but, on the menu this evening!!!!!
And yes, my Mom always said... "don't play with your food..." but it's just way too much fun when it comes to lobsters... (poor thing...)
Have had quite a few meals of this beauties this summer.... I think I could eat it weekly.....













Camp fires, trips, beautiful weather... camp... I am truly, truly blessed......

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