DAY ONE.

Today is DAY ONE.

As of today I am living my dream as a full-time photographer.  This dream has been burning in my heart for a while now, and so at the beginning of April I had to share with my co-workers that I was going to be leaving the Governor’s office at the end of the month. Throughout April my head and heart were filled with mixed emotions.  Should I really do this? Am I walking away from something that is too good to be true? Do I have what it takes to really run my business? I even had a few dreams that someone stole my identity at the office!

I wanted today to set a tone for my business.  I wanted to not just take a few days off, but really hit the ground running.  Let it be known the t.v. has not been on all day.  I started the day reflecting on yesterday and my past 4 1/2 years at the capitol.  I thanked the Lord for his affirmation this morning that I am right where HE wants me.  And, I headed out to help our Lab Rescue friends. I wanted to share Churchill with you in more detail.

I dare you to look into his eyes and not be moved.  I wish that I could also convey how this gentle giant moves when he walks.  How he sits close to those he trusts.  How inside this broken body is still a spirit of love and a heart that wants to play.

I fed him a treat trying to win his trust and attention.  It was at that moment that I started to tear up…he has no front teeth.  My heart sank.  My eyes are watering as I even remember it now.

I squeaked a ball and his head turned just like a puppy and he looked down for it.  I had to put down my camera for a while and just love on him.  He is like every lab that we pay $$$ for from a breeder.  Who knows!  Maybe he came from one?  But why did he end up tied outside to a chain?  We as humans mess things up sometimes…big time.  They think his teeth came out from trying to get out of his chain and also malnutrition.  Yet, he is one of the sweetest spirits I have ever met.

A special angel.

Churchill made my day.  In a lot of ways he is just like all of the other labs we see in the rescue, in need of love and attention, a safe place to sleep.  I am at a loss for words though when trying to share his spirit with you all.  I hope you can see it in his eyes.

I will never forget my DAY ONE.  I am SO thankful that it is only the beginning!

To keep up with Churchill and other sweet lab loves visit the Atlanta Lab Rescue, and please come check them out this Saturday at K9 Planet in Roswell!