K is for Knew This Day Was Coming...

...but it's still hard to imagine! After guiding me for more than 6 years, Dolly is ready to retire. She is going to live with my mother, fortunately, and they adore each other. Mother lives close by so we'll get to see her often. I will be returning to Southeastern Guide Dogs in FL to train with her successor dog. Because this will be my second dog, I only have to stay for 20 days. I am scheduled to be down there from 9/25 to 10/15. This will be a huge transition for my family, and I am thankful for their love, support and courage.

Anytime you need a break, visit guidedogs.org and click on PuppyCam! It's guaranteed to put a smile on your face. If you are ready for that break now, just click on the title.

B is for Banks meets Banks

Have you ever wondered how guide dogs get their names? The person that sponsors a guide dog has the privilege of naming him or her. My mother sponsored the dog you see here and named him Banks in honor of my son, Banks. Yesterday we had the wonderful opportunity to meet Banks. His puppy raisers are traveling from Florida to Ohio and were kind enough to stop here in North Carolina so we could all get together. As you can see, it was a happy time for all!