Susan Wiggs's Blog, page 55

these eyes have a wet nose

I really love Fidelco, which provides guide dogs for the blind. One of my favorite readers and people is a Fidelco client. As soon as I finish this post, I'm off to the Fidelco web site to make my annual donation. Please give if you can.

Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation

We have many happy clients thanks to your generosity and support. Recently, I received a thank-you email from Fidelco client Ross Kirk, entitled, "Re-learning the Trust." He very passionately summarized the challenging process that confronts every successor Guide Dog and handler relationship.

Dear Mr. Russman,

My name is Ross Kirk. I am the proud and thankful owner of Zeva, my successor Fidelco Guide Dog. I received her Aug. 2, 2010, after my first dog, Keafe, was retired.

Until Zeva I was without a dog for eight months and reverted back to using my mobility cane. I had grown accustomed to traveling with Keafe, so much so, that I was lost over the past eight months. When Zeva arrived I found the techniques I originally learned were still in place, although a little rusty. I found techniques were not the issue. Replacing the trust seemed a little more difficult.

I am pleased to say that now, coming upon our first month together, the trust, love and the bond has flourished. We are connected and I once again feel secure in traveling out and about (so much so, we already made our first trip into NYC.) Prior to moving to CT, for 20 years I lived, worked and took advantage of all NYC had to offer. [...] Now, I travel into the City as often as possible. I miss it so much I try to get in at least once every week.

I understand that you have a home [in NYC]. One of my favorite spots is to grab a sandwich and rest in the bird sanctuary at 60th and 5th. So, if you happen to see Zeva and me in your neighborhood, please do stop us to say hello. I'd love for you to see the fruits of Fidelco's labors at work in real time settings.

I will close with great thanks, appreciation and gratitude.

Sincerely,

Ross J. Kirk

I would ask that all stakeholders embrace his example of courage and grace and support Fidelco's Mission during this season of giving. The results will undoubtedly be a stronger, more vibrant and even more successful future Fidelco. Happy holidays!

Forward together…

Eliot D. Russman

CEO and Executive Director

good morning US Navy!

The Nimitz came in this morn. Happy holidays!

sunrise

One of the few good things about winter's short days–the sun comes up at a civilized hour.

deck the halls

playdate

Barkis paid a visit to Dilly. They're a matched set. Please visit http://www.thebigdogproject.org/

humiliated

…but Barkis will do anything for me…

a trip to Paris for a hundred bucks

I mean it. If you can't go in person, PLEASE get this book. It's just genius. You can't see on the web how good it is, with oversized, thick silky paper and images that will haunt you, that you'll want to visit again and again. This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves Paris, whether or not they've been lucky enough to go.

"With his incomparable eye, photographer Pete Saloutos captures the City of Light in all its timeless beauty and breathtaking romance. This collection is a true work of art, and a must-have for anyone who has ever dreamed of visiting Paris."

#1 New York Times bestselling author, Susan Wiggs

barkis at sunset

joy to the world

A new favorite in the flash mob video category. Not to be missed!

first snow!

Barkis could not be happier!