Four-legged Volunteers

By MARY KUGLER
Tis the Season… a time for family and friends, love, hope, and faith. Remembering those who shared their lives with us who are now sharing in the “Heavenly Garden.”
So much to do. So little time. It’s always nice to have decorating parties, but sometimes, there are “people” who you wish hadn’t volunteered. Those wonderful four-legged furry “people,” who are so much a part of our lives.
When you’re stringing the lights, the last thing you need, while testing the string, is “Fido” or “Fluffy” racing from out of nowhere, snatching the plug from your hands and keeps on going.
The box flies into the air, and the lights are now taking a guided tour of the house, as you chase behind yelling for them to stop (true story). They also may decide that the garland looks better on them, than the tree. Ornaments are great for target practice. Taking leisurely swats at them, seeing which ones they can knock off and play hockey with.
Love the wrapping paper, nice to lie on, especially when you’re trying to wrap. Don’t forget the ribbons and bows…another fun thing to roll around on, making their own packages, out of themselves. Then the ultimate fun, to see what Santa brought them, and everyone else, before Christmas morning. Shredded paper everywhere. Bows look so cute stuck to the top of their heads. Then it’s nap time. After all, they look better under the tree than the gifts do.
Do you send cards? They are more than happy to lend a helping “paw,” literally. Reaching, sorting, and choosing the best card for everyone. Can’t guarantee that the envelopes will match, but it’s the thought that counts. Now if you could only find the address book. It was here a minute ago.
By the time your “volunteers” are finished , you’ll need a ” Haz-mat” team. Do yourself a favor, keep your snacks and egg-nog out of harm’s way. Unless of course, you don’t mind that your friends get an extra treat. You will make a “tummy” very happy, and yes, popcorn is better as a snack, then as a garland.
Oh, by the way, empty boxes and tissue paper make wonderful make-shift beds. In conclusion, my suggestion to you, get a few “two- legged” volunteers to keep an eye on the “four- legged” ones.
Happy Holidays Everyone!
Kugler writes from Erma