Onward to 2016!

The last day of 2015.  Looking back, just as so many of you have also had, we've had our share of  loss, heartache and happiness.

~A rare view of our resident Barred Owl~

Of course I can't help but reflect on our losses.  Each had its own personal sadness and sorrow.  We said good-bye to four dogs in 2015....

The lovely little Cricket.

The gentle and easy-going Beau.

The charming, silly and handsome Gus.

And the endearing and carefree Buddy

The subtractions brought additions.  We fostered our first senior boy for Lab Rescue, welcoming George in the spring. I just couldn't let him go, reasoning that he shouldn't have to go through another change in homes, so he became a permanent addition.

We got to meet Lexi from the Golden Retrieve Rescue and helped her find her way to a forever home where she's truly a star!

Then of course there was the arrival of Bella, who despite her diva-moments, has a gentle and joyful soul.

~Bella~

And lets not forget the five kittens that were living behind the gas station in my town.  I volunteered to foster them when no one else would.  It introduced me to someone from the SPCA who found homes for all of them.  We've since welcomed two more kittens from the rescue, and still have "Flurry" (Jack-Frost) in  residence.

At the end of the summer we welcomed the ever patient, quiet and affectionate boy, Dusty.   

Lastly we have welcomed Sherlock, who I call Reggie, from Lab Rescue.  His story is still being written, Will he stay, or will he go? But he's looking so much healthier these days, don't you think?

~Sherlock, or Reggie as I call him~

Of course there was the loss of my brother, John, in February.  The sale of my family home in the spring.  The celebration of my nephews wedding in July. Each event brought me closer to my brothers and reminded me of the importance of family.

Through those good and not so good times, there have been the antics and mischief of the star of our household, Todd.  His energy and high-spirit have made us laugh, cheering me up through the not so good times of 2015.

Yes, every star has its supporting cast, and needs an audience and there's no question, our house has a great collection of co-stars.  Together they ALL teach me so much.

~A few of the co-stars at Golden Pines~

One thing is that joy can and should be found in the simple things in life.

~Charlie's new toy, or is it Todd's?~

The dogs remind me not to worry about the past or what's behind you -- But to instead focus on what's in front, and enjoy the moments, and live in the present. 

And to bound through life with a smile.  

Happy, Happy New Year from all of us at Golden Pines!!