Daisy

Yesterday was Daisy's birthday. Our sweet girl is 8 years old now, with the grey beard to prove it. She celebrated with a walk, some extra nums, and lots of of belly rubs.

A few weeks ago, Gwen, Daisy, and I headed out for a walk to collect leaves for a school project of Gwen's. It was such a beautiful day, cool and comfortable, sunny with a lovely breeze. I sniffed at the air enjoying the smell of leaves, while Daisy sniffed everything else she could get her nose near.

Her energy and joy on that walk was wonderful to see. The night before we'd had a scare, waking up to Daisy getting sick in the middle of the night, and she'd started the day seeming tired. She clearly was back up to snuff, her tummy troubles the result of something she'd eaten during her last walk before bed.

We stopped by this pretty tree so Gwen could collect all the fallen leaves around it, and Daisy took that opportunity to snuggle into me. She's my shadow so much lately, since I'm home more during the day then anyone else.

I'm so glad that she's still so young at heart, and in attitude. The hallmark of a Lab! She runs and jumps and plays, and greets everyone with exuberant joy. Her love is a palpable thing.

The average age for a black lab to live to is about 10 - 12, though some can live to 13, 14, or even 15. I hope Daisy sticks around to the tail end of range! I hope she keeps her energy, and her love of life and family, for years and years to come. I don't know what I would do without this crazy beast.

Happy Birthday to my sweet pup!