This is Girl Person. Every Sunday, I tell a story about Brickle and Digby.  A memory that hopefully helps you to remember that they were special, and are remembered, just like all the animals we have had in our lives. 

This story take place in the state of New Mexico.  We had been traveling in the RV for quite a while at this point. But every state had a way of surprising us, and also humbling us. New Mexico gave us a rough start. We found ourselves at a very desolate campground.  And we truly felt all alone. 

There was a huge problem in this area with stray dogs roaming and supposedly being aggressive.  So there signs everywhere not to feed them or help them.  That’s another story for another day. But let’s just say I had no idea New Mexico animal rescuers were so awesome, and what a huge job they had. 

After a long day of travel as usual, we took the boys for a walk. There was an abandoned d post office and other buildings here.  There were some trails, but it was pretty dangerous for dogs because of the snakes, cacti, etc.  The campsites were dusty and dirty and we decided that probably we would head out the next day.  Brickle and Digby seemed to be tired too, and we all went to bed, planning to get up early and hit the road. 

First mornings at campgrounds were my favorite. Because most of the time, I would wake up and not even remember at first where I was, even when I looked out the window. Digby was just like me.  He had a prime seat, as we had turned the dinette in the RV into a dog bed. And so he had the big window all to himself. When he woke up that morning, it was a morning I’ll never forget. 

As we both woke up, because yes, I was sleeping with him, we looked out. And I saw his face.  Shocked. Eyes wide. In awe.  

If you knew Digby, you knew his howl was his superpower.  That howl could wake up the dead from centuries ago.  And before I could look out the window myself, his shocked face and eyes and then…the howl of all howls woke up Mozart. I don’t know I choose to pick Mozart, but I picture him turning over his piano and wig falling off.  That howl. 

I was immediately fearing the worst in this split second. Had the sign warning us of the gang of dogs roaming the streets made their way to us? 

Had the snakes surrounded the RV?

No, no. It was a hot air balloon.  Digby had no idea what it was.  It was his first time seeing one.

And as we went outside to get a good look, with Brickle being very unimpressed, the howling got louder.  Brickle got irritated.  They started barking at each other, and the hot air balloon went away.  Digby was quite pleased with himself that he had been able to keep us from harm.

In awe.  I made it a point from that day on to have another goal.  To keep my dogs in awe of life. 

To give them surprises and new experiences. And to want the same for myself. 

Brickle and Digby truly helped me to see the magic in new days and new experiences. Wherever we were. 

Your dog has the same ability.

Won’t you take notice of it? 

–Rachael, Girl Person 

If you enjoyed this blog and our unique take on animal rescue, please let us know. We can’t do this without you. Donations are down and expenses are up. 

You can tip here or Venmo @travelingdogs2