Happy Birthday, Sunny and June!

Our dogs, we still think of them as puppies, turn three years old today. Our big blond shaggy one is Golden Sunshine, or Sunny, a male. He is very friendly, likes chasing his sister, licking people's feet, digging in the dirt, and eating rocks. Well, he actually just likes eating.

The female is Bonnie June, or Junie, or Junebug. She is quite cuddly with those she knows, but tends toward skittishness. She is easily startled, and has a startled bark that could raise the dead. She loves being outside, chasing squirrels, birds, and the wild bunny that frequents our dilapidated garage.

On the day we brought them home, we had large beach towels in which we held them, to keep them warm, and to prevent "accidents." Mark held Sunny, while Rachel held June. Rachel had wanted a dog for years, and with tears in her eyes, all the way home kept saying, "This is the best day of my whole life!"

This morning, as we talked about that day, Rachel remembered that June was a bit gassy on the ride home. We giggled about that some. The real irony is that Sunny is the gas-meister. Sometimes the dogs will be asleep, and someone in the room with them will shout out, "Oh, Sunny!" This is a clear sign to leave the house while it is fumigated by Sunny. And I swear, sometimes when this happens, he seems to be smiling.

Happy birthday, Sunny and June, our lives are richer, and more joyful, for your presence.