Well, it seems like the Summer of Lincoln is winding down. Of course we are at the cabin for Labor Day weekend, which means lots of swimming and running and wine tasting. I heard my Mom say that this could be our last weekend of nice weather, so we decided to make the best of it.
This is day one. Just me and my Mom, down on the dock, drinking coffee and reading and watching everything around us. I’m mostly watching my ball, because I think it’s pretty funny when I give it a nudge and it rolls around on the dock and sometimes it rolls into the water…and you all know what that means – TIME FOR A SWIM.
It was so pretty that morning, the lake was like glass, and my Mom made me post for a bazillion pictures. I’m getting to be sort of like a male model though, because when she pulls out her camera, I put on my best handsome face. Except, I have to admit, I did get a little bored with it after a while.
My Mom said that this was pretty much her perfect morning. A beautiful place, a beautiful dog and a cup of coffee. 
It reminds me of this one saying by Aristotle…I can only think of one thing greater than being happy and that is to help another to be happy, too. That’s what I do for my Mom, as I’ve mentioned. I force her to slow down and just be. I’m good for her, for sure. We spent a lot of time on the dock and in the water this weekend. We were both trying to make the most of the perfect days we had.
We also spent a lot of time POSING FOR PICTURES. Our other dog Kirby is really old, and really sick. She has cancer too, but hers is way worse than mine. It’s melanoma, and she’s had to have body parts cut off too (what is up with that?). She was only supposed to live for three months after we found out, and she is way past her expiration date, but nobody has told her.
She is 16 1/2 and she has lived with us for 4 1/2 years, which we all think is pretty amazing. I’m trying take care of her melanoma spots, but my Mom says that no amount of licking is going to make them go away. She’s not going to be around much longer, I think, but she sure had a good life with all of us. I’ve never been an only dog before, so it’s going to be pretty weird for me, and for my Mom too.
Anyway, Kirby and I have both really enjoyed the summer. It was lots of fun, and we have never spent so many weekends at the cabin. It really was the best of times. So, even though it’s almost over, we all made the most of it, and if I’m being honest, I hardly even noticed that I only have three legs. I still swim and run and roll around just like nothing ever happened.
What’s next, do you suppose?…something good, for sure, because when one thing ends, another has to begin. I’m ready to roll! Who’s with me?
“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail…Ralph Waldo Emerson
Hey Lincoln – ask your mom where she got that super cool coffee cup? I’m so glad you had a great weekend at the lake…and that Kirby got to enjoy it, too,cheeseburgers and all. As always – you are very handsome, and super sweet for taking care of your mom AND Kirbs.
lincoln, what a wonderful time at the lake!! thanks for the great pictures, especially the one of you and kirby, she looks like a wonderful older sister!! thanks for always putting life back into perspective…you should write a book!!
gayle & charon
We’re rolling on with you, Lincoln. I’m sure something amazing is around the corner for you. And your sister is stunning.
We’re with ya! 🙂
What great photo’s and what a great summer you’ve had at the cabin! Keep on lickin’ your sister…you never know, it just help…she’s a beauty!
Maggie
Lincoln, what a beautiful, memorable weekend (and summer). Those photos are priceless.
We know that your courage and strength will help Kirby cope with her illness (which we are so sorry to hear about). You are an inspawration to all.
By the way, maybe if we’re all in denial that summer won’t end, it wont? We’re not ready for fall!
Lincoln, I didn’t know you were a philosophy major;) Emerson AND Aristotle? That’s great, and we are happy to hear about your great summer. We are sad about your sister Kirby, but we know you and your family have given her a great 4 1/2 years. You are both absolutely beautiful. Keep on giving her love while you can. We are all thinking of you and your family.
Oh Lincoln, so happy that you’ve had such a great summer. I’m very sad to hear about your sister Kirby – she sounds amazing (at 16 1/2??) and must be so lucky to have found you and your family.
Your pictures are perfect and look so serene and peaceful. I would definitely agree that you make the perfect male model.
Your mom always comes up with the best quotes.. I love the one by Aristotle…rings so true…but of course your mom’s quotes always ring so true!
Here’s to you Lincoln enjoying the rest of your summer!
Lincoln, through your words I have seen such beauty. Through your pictures I have touched it! Your quote of Emerson reminds me of one I hold dear by Thoreau, “Every path but your own is the path of fate. Keep on your own track, then”.
Thanks, for letting Fortis and I be guest at your cabin on the lake. A simple ball brings such joy. How easy must it be?
Your friends from Texas,
Fortis and Brett