20 year anniversary.

20 years ago today, I met my very first guide dog. At the time, I wasn't sure whether or not I would like traveling with a guide dog. I had been a white cane user from a young age and felt confident with that. I was a good traveler. A part of me wondered though what it would be like to travel with a guide dog instead. It was tough adjusting at first for both of us I am sure. But soon, it felt like the most natural thing in the world. With each dog, the first few walks seem strange. Gwenny pulled hard and swerved around things at the last minute. Margaret pulled less but was very dog distracted. gia floated along in a way. Tulia bounced. After a few walks, each dog's gait and movements seemed normal and I am sure they took some getting used to me too. This morning when I got up, I listened for Tulia squeaking as she stretched and then bouncing over wagging her whole self to say hi. Gia always stayed in bed until I was ready to go downstairs. For my wonderful guiding girls, (black lab Gwenny, yellow lab Margaret, golden retreiver Gia, and black lab Tulia) thank you for sharing the adventure. For allowing me to walk with dignity and confidence and for being who you are. For those who trained them, (you know who you are smile) thank you from the bottom of my heart. For the puppy raisers of any of my dogs (you know who you are) what an amazing gift you give us. Thank you.