[Skytrooper]

Yesterday was Lilly's first birthday ! It also marked her 4 month anniversary since we rescued her.

As I have always done, my dogs birthdays are special days. Once my favorite pet store opened, her and I climbed in the car. She even got to ride shotgun !
I was a little concerned that it might not happen due to her being unsure of herself and a bit reactive in some previous attempts at meeting people ( I would love to get my hands on the people that "raised" her before being rescued). Anyway, I did not need to worry. She stood in the car until I got her leashed and only hopped out when I told her "OK". She met a young woman in the parking lot that thought she was the most beautiful dog she had ever seen. Lilly just calmly walked over and sniffed her and loved the pets and attention. Then it was into the store ! I could see there were like 3 customers and 2 staff. I tightened my hold on the leash. I didnt need to. She was great just checking out the store and the smells. She didnt growl or carry on with any sort of naughty behavior. She was a good sweet dog. We looked at toys, since that is one of the reasons for going. She was quite discerning and chose a Kong Teddy Bear, which she carried everywhere until we checked out. We also got 2 of their fresh made dog cookies, the main reason for going to this store. We got 2 so Boomer could have one...birthdays are shared ! She ate hers in the car, then fell asleep for the ride home with her head on her teddy. At home she played gently with teddy, so I left her with my wife and took Boomer for a walk at the park. All was good as she slept most the time we were gone. Just before noon, we piled them both in the car and embarked upon the next birthday tradition...going for a cheeseburger !! Lilly and Boomer split one (I cut it into 1 inch bites) and my wife and I split one. Then we had a big walk at a different park to aid digestion. It was a nice warm day 75 degrees ! So, we spent the rest of the day until sunset just sitting around playing with the dogs.
It was a great 1st birthday for Lilly ! She was so happy and just loving life and everything.

We almost missed it as both my wife and I are just getting over a nasty bout of covid. This was our first foray out into the world again. What a great day it was !