As I scroll through my Instagram feed desperately searching for a distraction, Earth Day is yet another profound reminder to appreciate our world before it is too late. I’m willing to guess that, no matter what your registered party, ensuring those soul soothing, family bonding experiences live on is worth action before left to regret and reflection. There are countless ways to engage in the betterment of our planet that are meaningful to you. As outdoor enthusiasts, one of the best things we can all do is leave no trace when recreating, which includes packing out the dog poop. Trust me, it isn’t always fun. Remember, we hiked with two German Shepherds for a decade.
The last hike Seren went on was with Steve, and they ventured into the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness past Oregon Butte on the Smooth Ridge Trail. Even in her old age, Steve preferred her company and exceptional fitness level on the more remote trips. Since that trip, she enjoyed nightly walks around town, and I’m pretty sure she deserves credit for babysitting for the first few months of the pandemic as the kids transitioned to being alone in the morning while we worked.
Our babies were thrown in a wrap or backpack from the day they were born (okay a few exhausting weeks after the day they were born). At every stop to feed, change, or stretch, Seren was always by my side. I’ll spare you the more intimate proof of this, but behind her more serious side was a whole lot of nurturing.