Who would have thought that a "simple" adoption that cost us nothing would have changed our life in so many ways? Who would have thought that a golden retriever would have such an incredible personality—one that was actually capable of teaching us a thing or two about life. We had no idea what we were in for or what a profound difference that stunning dog was going to make.
After writing "Finally Home," I showed Buddy the first proof that I received and no doubt, in his mind, he said "Cool, a toy for me." The standard dog toys were a mere distraction for him, nothing more than something to occupy his time for a short while.The "real" toys were paper towel rolls, shoes and, of course books —things he could tear easily and initiate entertaining games of chase and keep away.
Before "Finally Home" was even published, I had made up my mind that if any copies had sold, a portion of the proceeds would be donated to animal rescue. I had no idea about publishing a book, how to market it or if any copies would even be sold! I suppose I was utterly clueless about the entire process.
Upon my first sale, you can imagine how happy I was when I realized I could now officially donate something from the sale of my book. True, it was only one dollar, but hey, it was a start.Little did I know that the first year I was able to donate about one thousand dollars to animal rescue.
So, when 2011 rolled around, I raised the bar. My goal became $2000.00.As I wrote those promising words on Facebook and Twitter, I have to admit, a blanket of doubt covered my thoughts. Two thousand dollars? How was I going to do that?
Well, some months were better than others and I even thought about how I was going to break the news that it just wasn't possible.Those are the months I tried even harder. I had more ideas so I wrote more books. Now, almost two years later and I have seven books on the shelves of Amazon. I am donating from the sales of each of those books.
Almost two years later and I'm happy to say that I was able to reach my goal of $2000.00.
I can't take the credit though. I have to thank my readers for their support.
Most of all, I have to thank Buddy Senior. Though I never in a million years expected him to have to leave us when he did, he is the main reason that any of this came to fruition. The only reason I am able to do ANY of this is because he gave me the initial material to write a book, simply because he was who he was.The rest just followed.
I haven't set a goal yet for 2012, but will do so shortly. It's a great feeling to play even a small role in helping the homeless, neglected and abused animals. They are not disposable and deserve all the love in the world.After all, Buddy Senior was the dog that no one wanted. I can never imagine my life without knowing him.
Happy Holidays and wishing you health and happiness for the year 2012.
Author of Finally Home, Final Journey, My Dog Does That!, Bark Out Loud!, Unwanted Dreams, Phobia, Evil's Door and coming soon...Faces of Deception.
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