Happy Belated Birthday DARLA!

Darla is 10! Her birthday is June 2, 1999. Where did the time go? On one hand it seems like we just got her last week, and on the other that she has been with us forever. She is an important square in our family quilt. This wee one doesn't know she is a dog. She really sees herself as a hairy human, and we're okay with that! I marvel sometimes at God's wisdom. We are his children, but she is one of his creations. How did He know? How did He know we would need them. That they would offer so much in rounding out our lives. That they lower blood pressure. Love so unconditionally. Listen so intently, saving us lots of money for therapy! She is always happy to see us, even if it's only been a quick trip to the grocery store. She never wants to be left behind. She's even gone as far as to get inside a suitcase or dufflebag to let us know she has no intention of not going along!

Darla is a loyal, faithful companion. She watches out for me. She follows me around ALL day, just in case she is needed for something--anything. She has her favorite places in every room of the house that she goes to while she patiently waits for me to finish doing whatever it is I'm doing.
All she asks for in return is to be loved, petted, a cup of water and 1/2 a cup of kibble each day. Even after 10 years she feels very strongly that it is one of her 'duties' to let any and everyone who comes to the door know that nobody better mess with her family. As if all 8 pounds of her could take on the UPS man! But the instant I let a visitor in the door, she is immediately pestering them to make friends. This tiny sweetheart is the alpha with Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and any animal larger than her. But can't catch a backyard bird for nothin', even though she tries with all her might.
She sleeps through earthquakes, but is terrified of thunder storms. Tiptoes on wet or dewey grass. Such a princess. Loves to lay in front of the fireplace and soak up the warmth of a fire. Thinks every blanket or throw is hers. When she smiles she shows her teeth and it is such a funny sight to see how truly happy she is.
She is obedient. She is SMART. She knows when we are getting ready to go somewhere that she can't beg to go with us to. So she'll go into the laundry room, open the door to her kennel and lay down patiently waiting for us to come and lock her in. She is really good at giving us that 'whites of the eye' look that says, "How dare you leave me. Don't you feel guilty?" and it tugs at our hearts. Yes, she is smart.
She has scared the heck out of us by hiding under beds on occasion when she really doesn't want to be left alone, and is smart enough to not answer when repeatedly being called. Little stinker!
But look at that face. Just look at it!

And so, Happy Birthday to You, Darla-Doo.
We love you so much. Thanks for the love in return.