Where would I be without this dog?

Happy Thanksgiving!

I really am thankful for this beautiful mutt. I mean, he does look and act like a dufus most of the time, but he does have a wise, calming side to him too. Although I would’ve been happy with any dog, I am glad I chose him.

Ace has lead me to so many others who are just as dog crazy as me. Through him, I’ve built stronger relationships with friends, family and neighbors just by connecting over our dogs. I’ve met people through obedience classes, dog park visits and agility who I never would’ve talked to otherwise.

I’ve made friends with people all over the world just by sharing pictures and stories of Ace and by eagerly listening to their ups and downs with dogs. I’ve learned that no matter where we live, the act of walking our dogs through a quiet park is one of the most basic and treasured parts of our lives.

I always look for excuses to escape into nature, and Ace gives me a reason to every day. Driving out of my way to get to a certain park or spending a whole afternoon or weekend hiking is easier for me to justify when I know Ace loves it as much as I do. There are not many things I love more than to watch my dog running with no boundaries, just happy being a dog.

Ace gives me a reason to write every day. He gives me a reason to get out of bed at 6 a.m. and to leave the house when it’s below zero. He somehow gets an introvert to talk nonstop about her dog.

I could go on and on about why I’m thankful for my dog, as I know you could with yours.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Don’t let your dog get sick from too many handouts! A certain mutt I know already got into the garbage, and a certain orange cat decided to sample the butter.