Yesterday, I travelled some more, headed for Missouri, to reunite Treasure with some of her old friends. It was a very rainy and cold day, but I was full of excitement. While I knew some of these women through email contact, I had never actually met any of them. These were the women who had rescued Treasure from a less than ideal situation, who had cared for her, and who had believed that there was someone out there who would love her as she deserved to be loved. I knew there was no way I could even begin to thank them for the wonderful blessing that Treasure has become in my life. But I knew I was ready to try!
Requi (above) met me as I got out of the car. She was one of the people who was there at the original rescue, who actually helped to bring Treasure back to the humane society. I felt like I was greeting a dear friend, even though we only knew each other through emails. It warmed my heart to see how much Requi still cares for Treasure, as she greeted her for the first time since her adoption in May 2010. She made many comments about just how perfect Treasure is, but, of course, I already knew that! And, she was right!
Tracy was the only other shelter worker there who had known Treasure during her stay. I heard through the grapevine that she wasn’t supposed to be working on Mondays, so I can only surmise that she was there just to see Treasure and I! Treasure snuggled into her arms like she remembered her. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised at just how relaxed Treasure was! I had been concerned that she might remember the smells of the shelter and be upset that I might leave her there again.
But I needn’t have worried. She snuggled in with everyone and enjoyed all the attention. We even posed her in front of the decorated Christmas tree in the corner! I had brought Treasure’s scrapbook to share. And, of course, Jasmine was with us to delight us all with puppy antics! Like pulling ornaments off of that Christmas tree!
I got to meet Julie, the woman who had first noticed that Treasure and the other dogs needed help. She had called to ask someone to please go check on the dogs. I had not planned on meeting Julie. In fact, she had never been mentioned to me. But, being the true compassionate rescuer that she is, Julie was bringing in a stray dog that she had finally been able to catch after three weeks of trying. What a wonderful surprise that the dog had allowed itself to be caught today – of all days! – while Treasure and I were visiting! And we were able to meet Julie! And she was able to see and take pictures of Treasure!
And then I met Charlotte (above). She had also been there that day they rescued Treasure. She, too, greeted Treasure as if she was a long lost friend. I could see immediately how much Charlotte cared for her. We sat together by the Christmas tree and looked at Treasure’s scrapbook. I felt like I had known her for so much longer than just a few minutes. To prove just what a likeable person she is, Charlotte actually told the hostess at the restaurant where we had lunch the story of Treasure's rescue and reunion, and convinced her to let us take a group picture inside the lobby between the two sets of doors, where we could get out of the rain!
It was amazing to meet so many people who were such an important part of Treasure’s journey, and to see where that journey began. I have been able to put so many pieces into the puzzle of her past. And, still, all this time later, I am finding more and more pieces fall into place. It was truly a very special day for me. I made some wonderful new friends, and I got to share their joy at seeing their old friend again. My mind and heart are still trying to digest the magnitude of the day. It will remain one of my very special memories. Thank you so much ladies, for everything you've done and a great visit!
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