We lost our beloved Lola this past June. Lola was an 85-pound Goldendoodle who had been a part of our family for almost 14 years. I went a little crazy when I knew she was going, and went on a manic search for a new dog. I really cannot explain this—even to myself—but the idea of being a household without a dog seemed unbearable, and honestly, I am really not even a dog person. But, I am a life person. I love the feeling of living in a lively household.
Well, beware of what you wish for… Now we have Gilligan, a very much alive mini-doodle puppy. Gilligan came to us after an intensive training program. I know, I know, it’s not the dog that needs to be trained—anyhow, that’s another story. However, I will share one tidbit—dogs work for the reward of a good treat! I know, I know…
Of course, I had to make modifications to our home to accommodate Gilligan. We created a small fenced-in area off the side of our house, just for him! First week home he managed to squeeze through the fence posts and run free! He really isn’t that interested in hanging out in that area by himself—I never quite envisioned myself sitting in a fenced-in yard supervising him—but, there I am. I also had our mud room re-worked to accommodate a built-in dog bed. It’s lovely. I had a memory foam bed made from fabric to match our tile floor. I just love the look of it—just as well because good old Gill has no interest in sleeping there. Our tile floor is plenty comfy, evidently.
Gilligan is providing us with exactly what we need as we continue to stay home, and forces us outside where we meet and greet neighbours, many of whom did the same as us—got a COVID puppy!
The point of me introducing Gilligan is to say that no matter how much you think you have control over life, you don’t. Life happens, and we really never know how things are going to turn out. But if we continue to find small joys, and are able to laugh through it all, the tough stuff becomes a little more bearable. Although, I recognize that much of what is happening in the world cannot be laughed through.
I wish you all some small joy in reading our latest issue which offers some great holiday gift-giving ideas along with our inspiring home and lifestyle stories and dining delights.
Comfort & Joy,
Merry
Merry’s Must Haves
Let the joy of a good book sweep you away.
- Magic Lessons, Alice Hoffman’s Prequel $24.99, Books on Beechwood, 35 Beechwood Ave, !ndigo Books.
- Paris Chic, published by Assouline, Assouline.com
- Troubles in Paradise, the third in a series by Elin Hiderbrand, $24.99, chapters.indigo.ca
Mary Taggart