Dog is my co-pilot

The enthusiasm they show when I appear in any doorway.  The way they melt my heart with their big brown eyes.  The wag of their tails at just one nod in their direction.  Their cheerful company on a long walk – no matter the weather.  The gratitude they show for just one measly biscuit.  It’s hopeless.  I love my dogs. 

After thinking about it for nearly a year, I finally got my 70 pound goldendoodle, Dakota, to try his paw at SUP….and he was a natural (must take after me)!  After a few unsuccessful attempts at jumping up onto the board from a shore start, he finally stepped up, found his sweet spot and landed his rear-end with a thud on the board as if to say, “I’m captain of this rig”. 

As we balanced together on the board for the first time with the glow of setting sun around us, I felt so much love for this furry little creature, my dog, and his total trust in the experience.  And with each stroke of the paddle, I thought to myself: it doesn't get much better than this. 

Dakota bear and I gliding along in perfect bliss!