This week began at Faith on Sunday morning. It’s always a great way to begin the mission.
Then I started our visits by seeing two of our congregation members at a large senior center in the nearby suburb. First, I visited Betty. She was very happy to see me. Since I find her in the lunchroom, there are many other residents there as well. Probably ten people asked me to stop so that they could pet me. There are a bunch of smiling faces. We had a long conversation with Betty about Faith activities.
Then we moved to another section of the senior center. It’s a very long walk to get to Lois’s home. I always remember Lois; she has a big bowl of water waiting for me and a big red apple sitting on the coffee table. I behave in my best possible way by sitting next to the table without making any move towards the apple. There is a lot of friendly conversation with Lois. Then my handler finally moves to cut up the apple for me. It’s a great treat. We say our prayers with Lois and depart.
The following day, it was time to attend a party at the VA hospital. There were lots of people in attendance; many whom I visit regularly. I watched Pastor Jim show many pictures about snow and ice–not my most favorite place to be. We all had a good time together.
On Saturday I made another visit to the International Human Care Center. I visited with kids of all ages, some who have seen me before. This time there a couple of kids who were afraid of us (comfort dogs). Finally, one laid down next to JoJo and the other laid down next to me. Both kids calmed down and relaxed. This is the result that staff is looking for: children who have experienced very traumatic experiences can relax and feel safe with us comfort dogs.
I ended the week at a memorial service for Peggy, one of our congregation members whom I had visited many times. We had become friends.
Be in touch. Peace!