Mary Ann celebrates an anniversary with furry friends
I often marvel at the family I’ve created, especially when I cuddle up on these cold days with my “boys,” Homey and Bubs. The month of March marks a milestone for me and these pups. I got each one during this time of year; Homey in 2012 and then Bubs last year.
Every time I have let a dog into my life, I can remember in minute detail the circumstances of that day; what the weather was; even what I was wearing. These moments are etched in my memory and I often think back on them with more than a little fondness. They are in fact, some of my most precious recollections.
However, when I got Bubs last year I recall driving home in tears, a total contradiction to any of my other dog adoption days. That’s because he came into my life as an inheritance from my friend, Elaine McCarthy. When this dear lady found out she had cancer, and only had a few short weeks to live, she asked me if I wanted Bubs and of course I agreed.
In the hours before she died, she told me to take him home and I knew when I walked out the door with her dog in my arms I would not see my friend alive again, at least on Earth. Bubs seemed happy enough for the adventure, but my heart ached for his circumstances. I vowed I would make his new home as happy as possible.
Homey’s homecoming was a little different. He was a stray I adopted from a pound a year to the day before Bubs arrived. Scared and confused he took a few months to fully adjust. For weeks he would stare down the driveway, always waiting for something or someone in a sad and forlorn way.
This March marks a full year we have all been together though. And I have to say it has been an interesting one watch unfold with these little creatures as my roommates. Quite frankly, both dogs amaze me.
I am so thankful that Homey accepted Bubs into his domain with little fanfare although to this day there are certain rivalries the two gently battle out. A lot of that goes on over who gets to pick the choice spot on my lap. There are little snits over food and toys, and sometimes who gets to sit where during a car ride, but for the most part, they are buddies, who communicate in their own doggie way. And I marvel that even though these canines are the same species, they each have very distinct personalities.
Homey reminds me of a fun-loving boy, always ready for a game of fetch or tug. His toys are strung out across the house including several on the bed which he needs next to him before he can go to sleep. He loves spending time outside, although this is where he goes deaf, especially when his nose decides to take him in the opposite direction than his screaming Mama. In his own mind, he is a mighty dog, ready and able to take all on threats or dangers.
Bubs is a more mellow fellow and his adjustment appeared seamless. But there were days when I would also catch him looking longingly out the window. I imagined him wondering where Elaine was, wondering when he was going to go home. Today however, he is my faithful buddy. His goal is to never let me out of his sight and he follows me around like a rock star roadie. He is, and looks, as gentle as a lamb, and is content to let Homey take the guard dog lead, although he does contribute barks depending on the circumstance.
Both are avid and remarkable cuddlers. They have this talent perfected and I soak it up like a parched desert traveler. After a hard day at work, and after they have enthusiastically and properly greeted me upon walking through the door, we all settle into the recliner. They crave my lap and I crave their company and warmth. It’s a mutual agreement we all enjoy especially on these cold and bitter winter days.
Much to their delight, I decided the other day to celebrate our first anniversary year together by making “the boys” some homemade dog biscuits and I’ve included that recipe for this week. These are favorites and are fun and easy to make.
I have to admit, that even though I have had numerous dogs throughout my life and have loved them all, I am particularly fond of these two. They bring me untold joy and a sense of home and belonging. I am their hero and I can honestly say they are some of my best friends; two precious gifts that I am ever so grateful for.
Cheesy Doggie Biscuits
1 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup margarine
1 cup boiling water
¾ cup cornmeal
2 tsp. sugar
2 tsp. beef bouillon granules
½ cup milk
1 cup cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, margarine, and boiling water. Let stand 10 minutes. Grease cookie sheets. Thoroughly stir in cornmeal, sugar, bouillon, milk, Cheddar cheese, and egg. Mix in flour, 1 cup at a time, until a stiff dough forms. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface, mixing in additional flour as necessary until dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Roll or pat out dough to 1/2” thickness. Cut with cookie cutter (I prefer bone shaped), and place 1 inch apart on the prepared cookie sheets. Bake 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown. Store in a loosely covered container.
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