Meet Earl
I’m writing from America’s VetDogs in Smithtown, NY. This is day two of two weeks of training (for me, not so much the dog) and then the two of us will return to Alaska for a new life together. I’ll be posting later in the process; just wanted to introduce Earl to all y’all.
This was our first meeting.
And this is the first of what will undoubtedly be many photos in his album.
The instructors here said we could share photos with friends and family at this time but they have asked that we not post anything on social media yet. The process of training these dogs involves many volunteers and they will be notifying these people that the dog has been placed with their veteran during this week. They would prefer that they not learn about it on social media first.
Hope you all are safe and cool, I’ll be in touch.
The weather is perfect for it, just a tad on the warm side.
So far I've reached acceptable proficiency at the following, in chronological order: Silversmith, infantryman/door gunner, helicopter pilot, fireman, carpenter, residential contractor, FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist and crotchety old retired guy. Currently, I'm learning to fly again and that is what this is all about. 7/7/2020 edit: As I have had the opportunity to reflect (old people do that a lot) on my actual proficiency level at the above occupations, I feel adjustments are in order. The term "acceptable" depends on the observer, their own proficiency and experience level. Acceptable to me might be woefully deficient to the master. I think it would be more accurate to claim that I have earned a living wage at all of these occupations but never got rich. Actually, I feel that I have gotten rich at the last one. I have what I need and am profoundly grateful for all of it. The future looks bright indeed, as I have learned to fly again. For that I have all of you to thank. Thank You!
Nice to meet you, Earl! You appear to be a nice fella! Please try not to pick up any bad habits from Troy. Somehow most of us managed not to, lol.