We started the day off with games, one of which was to determine the "Best Kisser". I volunteered to be the judge.
This is Danny, a greyhound service dog. No kisses from him.
At 12:00, we listened to a presentation about the benefits of Cold Laser Therapy by Dr. Laura Chretien of Loving Touch Animal Hospital, a nearby not-for-profit veterinary clinic.
Kanga, another greyhound service dog, was quick with the kisses, then he climbed into my lap.
Lunch was at 1:00 ... a tasty array of burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, side dishes ... yummy cook out food. (If you follow me on Instagram, you already know that I was up and cooking at 6am that morning.)
Bill the Borzoi puppy was very generous with polite kisses.
More kisses from Bill.
At 3:00, we paused to celebrate and remember all of our guests' dogs who had passed. There was hardly a dry eye in the crowd ... mine included, as I hugged Ruby and Winnie as each name was read. After this, Theresie Houghton blessed each dog individually, offering them prayers and a small biscuit.
Organized activities ended at 4:00, with the raffle drawings and announcement of the Silent Auction winners. Companies and individuals were VERY generous with donations, and bidding on many items was very spirited.
This is Freya, who was leery of that overly friendly lady who wanted a kiss.
... and then it was over. In between the organized activities, guests toured my rose gardens, (which look awesome, if I do say so myself), visited our vendors, and drank wine from our guest Bacchus Winery and next door at Hartwood Winery. No one went home hungry, and everyone appeared to have a really good time ... me included. It was exactly the type of event we tell people it is, a relaxing, fun day in the country with your dog, to support a great cause and learn a little in the process.
Who was the Best Kisser, you ask? Bill the Borzoi, of course, because he was such a sweetheart.