A garden is a reflection of its keepers. Tidy and structured;
casual and carefree;
or untamed and wild.
It inherits our priorities – not by birth, but by effort and example. So too, our children.
“Whatever you would have your children become, strive to exhibit in your own lives and conversation.” ~ Lydia Sigourney
Kate is a dedicated Homeward Bound dog walker. Despite juggling a full life with young children and a husband’s doctor hours, she shows up every Sunday to get the dogs out – rain or shine.
She has an eagle eye for the first sign of a sneeze, limp, or matted ear – and an enormous heart for those most in need. In 2014, she extended it to George. As a Black Lab with insecurities in a place surrounded by sought-after Goldens, she was worried that he would be overlooked forever. So she took him home.
And while he is still unsure when he encounters dogs on his walks, it turns out that he is fine with dogs in his home. Go figure. This, of course, makes him a perfect host for fostering, which he has taken to very nicely following Kate’s example.
Last week, Kate saw that Maggie needed a soft place to land as she recovered from recent medical procedures.
With George and family in tow, an introduction was planned.
It did not take long for Maggie and George to give the “all clear.”
The kids cheered.
Rescue runs in this family. Kate and her husband, Christian, see to it by living the example. The love, respect, and concern for animals that they have inspired in their children is obvious.
Because of that, Maggie is in their foster care today. She has an opportunity to get well in the comfort of home, and to be loved upon while she waits for her own furever family.
Fostering. A gift for the dogs.
A great way to inspire a love of rescue in children.
Gardens For Goldens 
First Chapter of the 2016 Winter Coffee Table Book. I love it.
Hmm….going to need an editor. 🙂
I applaud the idea of a coffee table book! And, if you are so inclined, I would love it in a day planner as well. This post was beautiful — God bless Kate and her family for all they do for the dogs.
You are surrounded by wonderful, caring people. Your stories are inspiring. Hurrah for Kate and for all the pooches she loves and hurrah for you, too. xox
Awww…thank you. Hurrah for Kate indeed…and George! My Bella is not so accommodating.
But you love her anyway. 🙂
Thanks for introducing us to Kate and her family – wonderful to see those who help make Gardens for Goldens so unique and special. Did someone say Coffee Table Book!!! How cool would that be ~
Oh, I’m going to need to have a word with that “someone!” 🙂 Happy to share Kate with you all. She’s a pretty special someone.
A whole new generation of caregivers and volunteers. 🙂
Wouldn’t that be wonderful! Us old folks could use some rest. 🙂
Just beautiful!!!!
There are few better teachers to help us grow than a dog in need.
Oh my goodness. What a fabulous post and a wonderful way to start the new year. Thank you!
Thank YOU! So glad you are back. 🙂