It's Beginning to Look a LOT Like Christmas!!

Photo by Mark Boxley

Every year during the holiday season Dan Schwalbe and his Mastif ring the bell for the Salvation Army in a nearby town. The first year I saw them I was totally captivated by his beautiful dog. I asked if I could pet him, and Dan said "yes, he's friendly." Mind you this dog HAS to weigh at LEAST 150 lbs. He was so friendly I was able to get down on my knees and look right into his eyes without the tiniest bit of fear. Some animals you can just connect with, ya know? He loved to be scratched behind his ears and crooned to. I SO wanted to give him a big hug, but thought that might not go over to well.

Each year when the holiday season begins I think of Dan and his dog and eagerly look forward to seeing them. One year having been inspired the previous year by the pair, the four of us and our dog Mick stood outside for two hours, collecting donations. I have to admit I copied Dan's idea and put antlers on Mickey. The girls thought it was too much, and to this day chastise me when I dress Mick up, (yes he had bunny ears on Saturday, why do you ask?) but darn if there isn't anything cuter than a dog dressed up goofy.

This last Saturday, as you can see by the picture, Dan was out again with his Mastif. I heard the bells being rung at the other Walmart Super Store entrance, but we were between basketball games, trying to get some Christmas shopping done, so I didn't investigate. I'm sorry I missed Dan and his dog, but they have reminded me of the importance of not only giving to the Salvation Army, but of ringing those bells. I wonder where Mick's reindeer ears are...