Dear Readers,

As Thanksgiving approaches, I would like to share some of my many blessings with you, my loyal followers.

First of all, I’m thankful I’m still standing. As I may have mentioned before, Momma was not an experienced doggie parent, so there was a lot of trial and (mostly) error in the beginning. As you can imagine, there has been a giant learning curve for Momma, and I’ve had a big job training her. All is calm for now, however, and I’ve even taken down my “Dog for Sale” sign. See https://linasdogblog.com/2017/06/23/the-last-straw/ or Chapter 10 of Sit Stay Pray for more on that.

Second, I’m thankful I’m still able to eat even though I’m down to eleven teeth. It goes without woofin’ that this is especially true when trying to wolf down turkey at Thanksgiving time.

Third, I’m thankful for help from my caregivers, and as my hero Hillary says, it does take a village! Nanny Becky, Dr. Becca and Janice (in Florida) are always ready to step into the breach when Momma is away, and I must admit, I enjoy the peace and calm and stability they provide. Om.

Fourth, I am thankful that I still have some of the same furry friends I met when I was just a pup, including Auntie Rachel’s dog, CoCoa, Dr. Becca’s dog, Winnie, and Anne’s dog in Marco, Gracie! Old friends are the besties!

Fifth, I am thankful that Momma no longer feels it’s necessary to bring me to the vet every week. I get a little tired of the unnecessary prodding and probing, and I am quite sure that our pet insurance company is happy, if not broke, by now.

Sixth, I am thankful for the activities I get to enjoy including playing catch, long walks, agility, boarding with Momma, and doggie games and puzzles. I still remember when I got to herd sheep very early on in my life — although Momma was so nervous about it that I was always on a long lead, lest I get trampled. Just think what I could have done if I was really Lina Unleashed!

Finally, I am thankful for you, dear readers. I am happy to report that I have now written over 200 posts, my site has had over 40,000 views and over 14,400 visitors. If I learn that you especially like one of my posts, I am filled with gratitude and joy. (So is my ever-watchful Momma!)

Momma and I hope you a joyous Thanksgiving filled with your favorite treats. And woofing of treats, here’s a photo from our 2023 holiday pictures taken by Laurie Erickson (https://laurieerickson.photography). Doesn’t she do a pawsome job? And a big woof-out to our friend, Lori, for our festive Christmas sweaters.

Lina, Appreciative Aussie

WOOFDA!