Love ’em as family

Wednesday, December 6

As I wrote previously, Skeeter comes over to our campsite to play with Reggie and Roger.

Of course, The Canine Rule of Repeats decrees that Skeeter come to our door every day since that first time.

Left to right:  Skeeter, Roger, Reggie

After play time at our campsite, the three boys and I walk to Skeeter’s campsite.

No, that’s not true.

I walk.  Reg, Rog, and Skeeter take off ahead of me, flying full throttle, dust spraying out behind their galloping paws.

Four of Skeeter’s five siblings rush to meet them. Then the two canine gangs join together and come barrelling across the desert to greet me.

Here they come!  Rog is in the lead!  (Del’s rig is on the right, out of frame.)

NOTE:  Toby, gentle Toby, the tallest of them all — He’s the one with wavy, black fur in the photo below — stays at his campsite. His long legs don’t run like they used to.

How did this group become a family?

I’ll start with Toby’s story.

Del had a few mobile homes that he rented out. Some tenants who were a couple months behind in the rent packed up and left in the middle of the night. About three days later Del goes to the property and finds a dog lying on its side on the ground.

It’s tied up with no food and no water. The dog is only about one or two years old.

“He would’ve died, of course,” Del says, shaking his head. “I don’t understand how people can do something like that.”

“People like that make me sick,” I add. “I’d like THEM to go without food and water.”

As we talk, Toby stands between our camp chairs.

Del strokes Toby’s silky fur.

“Toby’s been with me for seventeen years now. He’s deaf and almost blind. That’s why he stays close to me.”

After a pause, Del adds tenderly, “I don’t think he’s gonna’ make it home (when Del and dogs leave here in the spring). You’ve been a great dog, haven’t you, Toby.”

This is River’s story.

While Del was camped along the Colorado River, not far from here, he found a small, short-haired, black dog running around on the riverbank. No owner could be found, so Del took him in and named him River.

Del thinks River is part dachshund and part pit bull. The doxie part is apparent in River’s physique, but I don’t see pit bull at all.

“Why do you think pit bull?” I ask.

“Oh, his temperament. I know pit bulls very well.  I’ve had several. They are very calm, but they can be mean.”

Every time I’m with the pack of dogs, River quietly approaches me.  I acknowledge him with a few neck scratches or pets along his torso.  This is all he asks for before returning to the general mayhem.

I don’t think to ask Del when he adopted River, but it must have been a while ago.  The little guy is no longer young, as evidenced by his gray muzzle.

Next I’ll tell you the story of Buddy and Beebee.

Left to right:  Beebee, Buddy, and a third of the chihuahua trio stands behind Buddy

Okay, here’s their story.

Del knew a guy who had two dogs. I don’t know if the guy qualified as a friend or if he was only an acquaintance.

Anyway . . .

The guy dies. Shortly thereafter a woman drives up to Del’s place and she has two big dogs in the car with her, Buddy and BeeBee.  Much to Del’s surprise she announces that the guy left the dogs to Del in his will.

Left to right:  Reggie (airborne), Roger, Beebee

Del chuckles good-naturedly.

“He left me the dogs, but he didn’t leave me any money to pay for their upkeep!”

I don’t know the age of Buddy and Beebee.  They appear to be mature dogs.

River, Buddy, Beebee

And then there’s Skeeter.

Del says Skeeter is part chihuahua and part Jack Russell terrier, like Reggie.

(Roger may be a blend of chihuahua and French bulldog.)

I don’t know how Skeeter became a part of Del’s family.  I’ll try to remember to ask about that.

All seven dogs . . .

Toby, River, Buddy, Beebee, Skeeter, Roger, and Reggie get along splendidly.

~ ~ ~

Reggie and Roger hop on Del’s lap and give him kisses.

Skeeter jumps up and wiggles his way in between Reggie and Roger in order to join the love fest.

Is this a happy man or what?

rvsue

NOTE:  Anyone who loves and cares for dogs (or other pets) is acutely aware of a painful inevitability:  Too soon they leave us.  Del is a happy man, yes, but he grieves for his dog, Simba, whom you may remember from a post last March,.  Simba was overtaken by cancer and had to be put down.  She enjoyed a good life with Del and with her canine friends.  — Sue

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~ ~ ~

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122 Responses to Love ’em as family

  1. Claudia says:

    Good afternoon Sue and crew!4

  2. Marilyn in GV AZ says:

    Second?

  3. Sandy from Lancaster, PA says:

    That’s a lotta dogs

  4. Marilyn in GV AZ says:

    Oh, goodie lots of puppy play photos! Now to go back and read my favourite blog. Thank you for sharing your adventures.

  5. Diann in MT says:

    You know angels when ya see ’em.

  6. Teri Live Oak Fl says:

    I just love happy dogs.

  7. Helen says:

    The pain of losing a companion can be unbearable. But the love of those left behind is immeasurable. Unfortunately we all may know that to well so we give them the best quality of life while we can. Prayers for Del and Toby.

  8. Shirley says:

    Always love a good dog story.

  9. Rob, in the lower 3rd of Florida for December says:

    It’s good to love.

  10. Renee from Idaho says:

    Sure do love em as family and sometimes better!

  11. Jean in Southaven, MS says:

    I love the story of each of the dogs. Funny how they each found Del. Our pack each has its own story too. Each seemed to come to us without our help. We keep saying that when these are all gone that will be it, but I know better.

    Del does indeed look like a happy man. So glad he let you include his picture. I always enjoy a face to add to the memory. I know how he feels about Simba. We still greave for ours that have passed over the Rainbow Bridge too. I was visiting my brothers over the weekend and we were all talking about our dogs and cats that we still think about and miss. Some of them for years. I guess animal people are alike in that way.

    Thank you for sharing with us and have a safe night.

  12. Joe in TN says:

    What great company for you and the crew! BeeBee is a beautiful dog. How about social skills for that one? Loving your extended stay at this stop. Watching fire ((and winds) north of LA.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Joe…

      “How about social skills for that one?” I don’t understand what you mean.

      Geez, more fires?

      • Sorry Sue, I was trying to ask if BeeBee got along well with your crew (i.e. social skills). I suppose that my spellcheck took me in a different direction. I’ll do better at proofreading next time.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          That’s okay. Thanks for getting back with me because I couldn’t figure out which dog seemed to need more socialization. BeeBee is as much socialized as any of the other dogs.

  13. Eddie says:

    There is a special place in Heaven for people like Del!!

  14. PJ Carr says:

    Wonderful story.
    Thank you

  15. Mark R Watson says:

    Doggie stampede towards you.

  16. weather says:

    Gosh, what a wonderful family story Del and his dogs have. None of them are like each other, and all have a great look-apart and together. Del is a handsome guy, no wonder you would have guessed he was in his sixties when you first met. He wears his 80 plus years really well, wow!

    Luv the 2nd photo with six pooches coming toward you, all running joyfully and free, just having fun. The guy who left Buddy and BeeBee to Del in his will chose the right man to care for them. It’s so nice that the seven dogs and both humans all get along splendidly, would that all neighbors were so blessed…

  17. Barbara from Caman says:

    What a fun read! Loved every minute of it. I look forward to finding out how Del got Skeeter. Thanks, Sue.

  18. Sherri D says:

    I would imagine you’ve thought about Bridget and Spike when writing this today. Just being presumptuous.
    I find it odd that this post of yours came through today. I had to let my little Bitsy, a little bit of a rat terrier, cross the bridge last night. She was only 14 and a half. It was time, but that still didn’t make it any easier.
    Since we moved to this home ten years ago, we’ve had to say goodbye to three dogs and three cats. Five were because of complications from old age and one is too long of a story to go into. Every one of them took a piece of my heart along with.
    The “Old Man” Tipsy is still with us. He’s a rat terrier cross. The young punk, Dexter the Wonder Dog is the newest addition. He’s some sort of a schnauzer cross. He is the most awesome pal and is loved to pieces!!!
    Hugs to you and the boys and to your friend who has taken all those dogs into his life….and taken them, just the way they are, warts and all. 🙂

  19. Dawn in Asheville...err, Ehrenberg says:

    Brought tears to my eyes to hear about Toby – I don’t understand people sometimes! That sort of cruelty is unfathomable. So glad you shared Del’s pack’s stories!!! And great picture of the smooching 😉

    What a great group of dogs all having fun – something to see.

    Linda from NC made it into camp today (despite my convoluted directions) and we finally met, after traveling across country almost the same time (just different routes – I took the high road and she took the low road).

    Awesome lady (because what loyal followers on your blog wouldn’t be???) and love what she’s done to fix up her rig. I’m jealous of all the openness from the windows. And her new puppy Hannah is so amazingly sweet.

    It’s great to compare notes from ‘back home’.

    Looking forward to the weekend when the wind dies down again 🙂

    • Elizabeth in WA says:

      You both are VERY brave ladies…for lots of reasons…sounds like the beginning of a fun friendship too…blessings on you both!!

      • weather says:

        Hi, Elizabeth, it’s good to see you here, I hope that means you aren’t upset about today’s results concerning your grandchildren, and will have a peaceful rest tonight.

        • weather says:

          Oops, just saw your comment below with my answer

          • Elizabeth in WA says:

            Thank you Weather…we rested better last night. The battle will go on however as after the hearing, our daughter’s lawyer let her know that they are filing more against her. We hope someone will consider the plight of the children!! They are not able to speak for themselves!!

  20. Anna from NC says:

    Golly, love the dog stories….seems like lots of your readers are dog people. I have a 14 year old rescue who is slowing down….and an 8 year old rescue. Love my dogs!!! (I also have a 17 year old and a 16 year old cat!)
    Most of my closest friends are dog people, too. Coincidence?
    Thank you for the pics and the good story. Prayers for all who have senior and/or ailing pets. Hard stuff.

  21. chas anderson says:

    Love the dog stories.Still have a framed photo of Juice on my nightstand which I smile at every night.

  22. Val R. Lakefield Ontario says:

    Del sounds like a wonderful caring person. Thankfully he found Toby in time. What a terrible thing to do to an animal. They look like a happy pack now 🐾

  23. Paula says:

    Thank you for sharing what a tribute to all the dogs up we have in our lives that mean so much to us. When I am sad they are there for me when I am happy they share my joy.

  24. Don in Okla. says:

    What a wonderful story of a great person with a big heart and plenty of fur buddies!! I can relate to his situation with my crew!!
    Don in Okla.

  25. Barbara (Nashville) says:

    Loved the stories of Del’s dogs. Hope to hear soon how he got Skeeter. I still can’t believe how well they all get along. They are certainly a Heinz 57 group which makes it even more amazing. Del looks so happy with all of them climbing about and giving him kisses. Love the post.

  26. Paula Frazee says:

    Hi Sue, I have been catching up and have a request. I read that when you were getting ready to have work done on the BLT that you were able to remove some of the storage components – that they weren’t built in. I’d love for you to do a tour of the trailor as it is now and give some info on what led you to go that route, and how well they function for you. We just got a different van and are working on setting it up. Thanks! PJ

    • weather says:

      Beauty and the best little trailer, a makeover – That’s the title of Sue’s post showing the current storage drawers,why she chose them,photos of the inside of her home,etc. By typing the first few words of that title into the search box above on the right side,one will find what you asked for.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Thanks again, weather, for standing in for me while I’m offline.

        Paula…To add to the info at the post written earlier:

        I am perfectly pleased with the storage units. I chose them for several reasons … extra large drawers that slide, not as heavy as, say, wood drawers, easy for me to install and remove, a perfect fit (once I removed the top drawer), and they blend well into the decor (a close match to the wall color).

  27. Jules says:

    Hi Sue, I have been reading your blog for years but I’ve never commented but I wanted to mention that I am reading the book Nomadland right now and the author mentions you and your website on pages 84 and 85. Did you know you were mentioned in there?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jules,

      I tried to see those pages by opening the sample at Amazon but it wouldn’t show those. Is it only a mention or is there more? What specifically does it say? Are there photos? I see that there are are photos of other RVers. Thanks in advance for your reply.

      • Cinandjules🌵 says:

        If you google “nomadland RVSue” the pages will appear…hit the + key to enlarge!

      • Pat (Ky) says:

        I read the book a few weeks ago after someone mentioned it in the comments. I had the same thought, wondering if you, Sue, knew you were mentioned. No pictures of you, but, you were described as a “hermit”. I personally don’t think a person would be putting as much time and effort into communicating with others through a blog as you do, if she was a true hermit.

        I thought the book gave a very bleak picture of the nomad life.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I read the few pages where I’m mentioned and I sense a derogatory tone. That’s okay. I’m used to that from a lifetime with people who don’t understand those of us who prefer a quiet, solitary life. She described people seeing my rig and “hightailing it” in the opposite direction. Ha!

          I wonder if Ms. Bruder would post her home’s location online and then be happy to have strangers come to the door of her home and look in her windows. 🙂

          • Cinandjules🌵 says:

            Her interpretations, assumptions and opinions.

            “Often they lack the gas money to drive long distances in a straight shot.” Huh?

            Hermit was nice compared to the word she used to describe a certain van dweller. Yikes!

            She obviously lacks the writing skills to keep the attention of followers…thus a one time read book…in an attempt to get her slice of the pie.

            Not to worry Desert woman…we have no control on how others navigate their road of life…You have and continue to demonstrate that you are in control of your own road. So rip off that rear view mirror and hit the accelerator!

            Feel free to delete if I overstepped…..

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Not overstepping at all.

              I had to laugh at the part where she criticized bloggers who promote a simple life (paraphrasing here) and then sell products on their site, things like a luggable loo. That’s the example she used. What? Does a simple life mean you’re supposed to poop in the bushes? hahaha! You’re not even allowed a pot to p**s in?

          • Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

            Doesn’t this woman writer remind you of Desert Diva ??? She used to criticize you in her blog, usually for earning money,as an Amazon affiliate!
            I wonder…..

            • rvsueandcrew says:

              Not the same person. Shortly after that I encouraged DD to become an Amazon affiliate and she went ahead and got her blog into the program. I wish her success with it. 🙂

    • Diann in MT says:

      Reading this book right now. Maybe it’s me, but the author’s point is to paint all boondocking, freedom loving retirees as “victims of circumstances”.
      She entirely missed the point that Sue and Tioga George chose their satisfying lifestyles. To be fair, she should have actually taken the time to research the facts with actual interviews rather than speculation and apparent rumor.
      You have the real life, Sue! Most of us would follow your path immediately, given the right circumstances. And, we wouldn’t need to work in harsh conditions to do it.

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        Your second sentence nails it, Diann!

        That’s what I meant by “derogatory tone.”

      • Ozarkjoy says:

        It wouldn’t let me read it said I had reached my limit , not sure I want to buy after something’s said but may just to read it. Duh

        I have to say I’m not living the lifestyle but want to. I sold my home to get rid of upkeep and live with my son or he lives with me however you say it. He owns the building and does the upkeep. I pay utilities. He’s a single father and needs help with kids that live here full time. I can afford to live where ever I want but I want to use my mtrhm when the kids are s couple yrs older and don’t need me anymore. One joined service last yr and another is 14. So it won’t be long. They travel with me in summers. This summer a job for the 14 yr old so my travel may be slim.

        I could have bought $100,000 rig but instead I spent $20,000 restoring a 1999. I’m not rich but I have enough to live as I want. Why should she think we are homeless. When the I no longer travel one of my four kids want me but I can still afford a home and if able will probably choose a senior housing complex. I think most of us fall in that category. I chose not to upkeep a home after I could no longer physically do it and didn’t want to pay others since I really didn’t need the room nor the property.

        I think I’m probably in the same income bracket with sue and made the same choices for about the same reasons. I enjoy her writing and it seems she enjoys writing it. And if she can make money to supplement her adequate income to provide a cushion for the future, what’s wrong with that. I bet the author doesn’t turn down money either. As for hermit??

        A friend mentioned recently having walked across the senior complex she lives at to visit a neighbor but returned home without stopping as her friends curtains were closed. Stated she doesn’t feel like socializing when she closes her curtains. Did that offend her friends? No. It’s called choices. I can ignore most but like sue I don’t want people ogling thru my window.

        I choose to buy amazon and I choose to do it going thru the blog. Again my choice what’s wrong with helping when you can. It’s becoming a me generation. How old is this woman or does she just recent someone because she’s not a successful blogger. I’ve tried blogging Never thought of money. It takes some computer savey I don’t have. And I discover I only write when I’m depressed. So I stick to journals. I read back and it awful. Think what a horrible legacy I’m leaving. Need burn them before I die but can’t bring myself to do so. And I quilt. Then I’m depressed no longer and quit writing for awhile

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Good morning, Ozarkjoy,

          I like the way you think. 🙂 Thank you for shopping through my blog and for writing this comment!

  28. AZ Jim says:

    Del’s a good man for sure. Many would have turned their back in his little pooch family. I’d be proud to call him a friend. Thanks for the stories Missy…

  29. Shawna says:

    Thanks for telling the dogs’ stories. What a good person your friend Del is!! And that pack looks like they had a wonderful time!

  30. Elizabeth in WA says:

    There was an old lady I knew about the time I married and she told me that on the way home from school, she and her sister, as teens, were always greeted by the children and the dogs!! She said she figured if the kids and the dogs like them, they must be ok!! They were sweet ladies…so all those doggies speak well of Del!! And not easy to keep that many dogs all taken care of and with plenty of attention too!! We found about 3 was all we could manage. Just the high energy levels and all…ha!

  31. Elizabeth in WA says:

    Our day in court today (well daughter’s as regards the children) went as well as we could expect. So for 30 days anyway, we should have peace and safety for the children!! We are so grateful and thankful for all the prayers. I am sure we will have other days to be concerned too…but for this today, we are indeed relieved!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Glad to hear it, Elizabeth! You and your daughter have had a lot of stress over this.

      • Barb in Florida says:

        Great to hear, Elizabeth. I hope you felt “lightened” of some or most of your stress and are able to breathe a little easier. I was thinking of you.

        After a couple of very frustrating days of scheduling conflicts with my work, Wednesday wasn’t much better as my trip to the DDS was as I suspected. Will be visiting the oral surgeon tomorrow to get that resolved. Hoping it will be easy thing and heals without trouble. Gotta go. Check in later.

        • Elizabeth in WA says:

          Oh so sorry Barb…but at least with the oral surgeon, you may have less pain and faster recovery. When I have to have teeth pulled I always need to be put to sleep too. I will be praying all goes well for you too!! Thanks for your concern for me and our kin…life can be so hard!!

          • Barb in Florida says:

            Appt. is at 1:00 – trying to get a few things done for the next couple of days. My son will take me & do whatever I need him to. Thanks for the prayers.

            Thanks for the happy puppy pics, Sue. They make me smile 🙂

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Good morning, Barb in Florida…. Thinking of you and hoping your day passes like a summer breeze….

          • Barb in Florida says:

            Thanks Sue. I want to have a la-dee-da attitude. It is what it is. I still have most of my teeth. At least all the ones in front 😉

            • Elizabeth in WA says:

              Hoping to hear you are recovered soon, Barb…had to laugh…”at least the ones in front”…heh, not too far behind you. Dentist wants to fix some of the back ones that are left…but I am not expecting too much more time with them even so…oh well, I at least am not starving…not by a long shot!!

      • Elizabeth in WA says:

        Thank you Sue!! It is just a reprieve…but even that is welcome. We are worried. But hoping GOD will somehow intervene. We are not so sure the courts will stop it.

  32. Linda in NC says:

    Aw..there is no better love and it is written all over Del’s face. What a kind heart. Thank you for the nice story.

  33. ValGal (westernWA) says:

    I’m sure the dogs are completely blissful with this winter camp. They seem to be having a blast. Love to see their joy. And maybe the humans are having a great time, too.

  34. Renee (Datil/North Ranch) says:

    What a wonderful family Del has. Someone sure put him int he right place at the right time to save all of them. We dog-people(& cat-people) can certainly relate to the dread for losing one of our family who’s getting older, and the grief when the inevitable happens. God bless Del & his little family. And thank you for sharing all their stories; it brought tears to my eyes.

  35. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    The pack! Love it! And no tethers! Bet they don’t realize it!

    One can see, by that smile….that Del is truly one happy person..enjoying retirement. The close up photo of River’s face reminded me of Spikey. Ya had me anticipating on Skeeter’s story…..

    There has certainly been a lot of new arrivals to the Rainbow Bridge recently. Sad is the physical loss of a beloved companion but comforting is knowing that you gave him/her the best life ever! We’ve all gone down that road..even though we say never again…we will do it over and over…..there’s just something a fur kid does to ones heart.

  36. Rover Ronda (WA) says:

    Toby looks like a Flatcoat Retriever. My husband and I are big fans of Flatties.

  37. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    Took Gracie pup out for an early morning potty run at 1:30ish AM. As she was coming back into the house, she paused to look back into the pitch black of the back yard (that always freaks me out a bit…). I gently tugged on her leash to bring her inside as I peered into the darkeness. Just behond the beam of the triggered security lights, I saw what caught Gracie’s attention. I locked eyes with a beautiful deer….and next to her was a second beauty. A split second later, they both turned and went off into the darkness. Happy happy joy joy! Each winter the deer visit my yard, feeding on the Nandina. I don’t mind, as those shrubs are like iron….they generate new leaves/growth every Spring. 🙂

    Trying to get back to sleep…have to be up to get ready for work in a few hours… Love and hugs to you and the happy Crew from me and Gracie pup! Thanks for sharing the story (and pictures) of Del’s canine crew. N’nite. 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      N’nite, Denise. You painted a lovely picture. Reminds me of the hand-painted plates of deer in winter that I have packed away in the PTV. I hope you don’t see this until the end of another day. In other words, I hope you are sleeping as I type this. Bless little Gracie pup for not barking at the visiting deer.

      • Denise - Richmond VA says:

        Hi, Sue,

        After I got home tonight from work, I could see where the two deer had munched on the leaves on the back upper half of the Nandina. There were two sets of hoof prints in the mulch of the main flower bed, just 30” behind the Nandina. The does must have been just a few feet away from Gracie before they retreated to the flower bed. 🙂

        Hope you and the boys had a good day! Sending you, Reggie, and Roger love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂 N’nite!

  38. Desert Ginger back in the desert! says:

    I have the ashes of both my previous dogs. I got Tigger for my son when he was 6 or 7, so I was mid-20s. Tigger died at 19, so I was in my mid-40s. Three years later I was finally recovered enough to get my Jack Russell Terrier, Daisy, who only lived to be 10 as she had Cushing’s disease. Now I was mid-50s. And I got my Chloe, who will be 11 in March. She seems to be doing well. When she dies then I will have her ashes. When I die, I will be cremated too and we will all be cremated together. I still think about my missing babies almost daily. I don’t know if I will have another dog after Chloe. I can hardly stand the pain of losing them. But oh they are the best. Just look at those happy, innocent faces. Love dogs so much.

  39. Karla in Kentucky says:

    God bless Del and all the people who are willing to share their homes with these precious animals! All of us who love the creatures God made are truly blessed in many ways.

  40. Rochelle in IN says:

    So after I comment on a previous entry that it was probably my favorite post ever, you go and up the ante! 🙂 This post just warms my heart for so many reasons. Love, love, love the pic of the pack racing to greet you – an avalanche of joy. And the stories, oh the stories – what a big-hearted man Del is! He has taken a mixed bag of dogs from different backgrounds and created a happy family that gets along with each other and with others – it’s a little glimpse of the harmony and happiness this world was originally created to provide.

  41. Cynthia from San Clemente says:

    This has to be one of my all-time, favorite posts, Sue. The sheer joy of those dogs running together makes my heart happy. Del is one good man to take each of those dogs in, and I can only imagine the huge weight of grief he will carry as each of them passes away. I hope he knows what a gift of a happy life he has given those pups – living in a pack (as R&R do too) is truly something dogs need, IMHO. I’m so glad you and the crew got to meet up with all of them again.

    Yesterday was the 4th anniversary of my Boz passing away, so it was a melancholy day for me. After he passed away I made a little video which I’ve shared a link to below – if you would prefer not to have such links on the blog, feel free to delete. It used to make me cry whenever I watched it but I can now watch it and smile at all the memories it evokes. When I look at all the places he got to go and all the things he got to do with family, I realize we gave him a good life. You must feel that way too when you look back at the photos of Bridge and Spike and all the adventures they had.

    My Boz tribute: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yewcIP8YqBw

  42. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    What a giving man!!! Great story with great pictures.
    Sending lots of love and big hugs!!!

  43. Terri in cold and rainy TX says:

    Great post! I love the dogs! What king of dog is Buddy-an Australian Shepherd? I read some of the book Nomadland. If I decide to buy it I will let you know what it says, Sue. It looks like it was well written. I was hoping it was available in kindle unlimited, but it isn’t. It is finally raining here. First real rain since we got the 22 inches in August. AND its cold. 53 degrees-whoo hoo! Enjoy your good weather. Did you see the video of people on the freeway in Los Angeles driving right past the fires? Last I heard the fire was rushing toward UCLA campus unchecked!
    You and your furry friends take care, OK?

  44. Karen LeMoine says:

    I so love stories about dogs and how they enter our lives.Del is a hero to those dogs who could have ended up in kill shelters. May God bless all the Del’s in the world who take in and love these precious lives!

  45. Claudia Meyers says:

    Such sweet stories of a Sweet Man. He is my Hero! We need more people like him.
    Thanks for posting…renews my faith in humans

  46. Ruth fromTennessee says:

    Thank God for people like the happy gentle man who took in all those dogs!
    Thank him, he must be a wonderful person. Love your adventure with the crew. I Casita with a Dashund ands Scotty.

  47. Rick & Brock the Dog - WA says:

    Very glad Del can provide for the dogs. Seeing his dogs off-leash is great. However, I’d really encourage Del and others to watch their dogs carefully and have them on a recall command. Other people, myself and my dog included may not appreciate such a greeting and the outcome would likely be bad. Brock has been attacked twice by off-leash dogs not under the owners control. So he’s sensitive to being charged. That is one reason I generally camp quite far away from others and move if there is any hint of an off-leash dog issue. Safe travels to you all.

  48. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    YAY! We finally get to meet Del and his pack fur family! Now THAT is a CREW! Hahaha! What a kind, generous heart Del has! Good neighbor to have too!

  49. Paula in Indiana says:

    Hi Sue, I so enjoyed this post. What a herd of happy dogs 🙂 And Del is Top Dog in my book- what a great guy!

  50. Elizabeth in WA says:

    Thank you Weather…we rested better last night. The battle will go on however as after the hearing, our daughter’s lawyer let her know that they are filing more against her. We hope someone will consider the plight of the children!! They are not able to speak for themselves!!

    • weather says:

      Hi, Elizabeth, I’m glad you rested better. Because anything we put on the internet can be found, you are wise not to include details. I pray for you and those you love. Knowing how dear those children are to you, I understand how easy it is for you to be worried about all that’s going on. I understand, too, that we can be caught up in tempestuous circumstances because we do care for those we love. I find comfort in knowing who really holds the power in any situation (see Matthew 8:26). I hope you enjoy today and whatever gifts it holds for you.

      • Elizabeth in WA says:

        Yes, Weather you are so right…and for more reasons than you know, tis best I give no more details. We are praying a lot for GOD to intervene…HE can if HE chooses to do so, that we do know!! So much is outside our comprehension really…you know Aaron’s sons were zapped, fried…just for bringing the wrong fire into the tabernacle…one wonders why more people today are still walking around really?… Thanks for the verse…the Matt. 18:6 verse keeps popping into my mind…some folks are in very bad places. We are only human…and doing our best…tis all we can do. The rest is not in our hands. I know how much the love I received from my grandparents (and some loyal dogs too!!) made such a difference in my whole life…so we hope that they will remember how much we loved them some day when we are gone. We are not spring chickens anymore!! I appreciate the care of you and several here and you are so adept with words…thank you so much!! And glad Sue has this place for us to “meet”…

        • weather says:

          May you (and Sue, and all the good folks who read and comment here)have only sweet dreams as you rest well tonight.

          • Barb in Florida says:

            Thanks weather. I did sleep well with some tylenol pm. Haven’t had that much sleep at night for a long time.

            The oral surgeon trip went well. A broken bridge had been cut off so that he could remove the root of one of the anchor teeth. It had a root canal and was brittle, so 12 pieces later….. Feeling not too bad today. Taking it easy & thinking it will feel so much better in a couple days. Trying not to think of all the $$$ that was spent on that one tooth before & now $500+ later, it’s just an empty space. I can still eat and nobody can see it from a smile:)

            While he (Dr.) was drilling away, I was thinking of all the things I would rather be doing. Dumping an RV tank came to mind & wouldn’t even care if I had to clean up a spill. Almost made me laugh.

            Thanks for the prayers, everybody. It made me feel good to think others were thinking of me!!!
            Love,
            Barb

            • weather says:

              It’s good to hear you’re taking it easy, Barb. We need extra rest while we heal. Treat yourself with a little extra pampering for me, I hope to find out you are all better and feeling more carefree soon. Hugs!

            • Elizabeth in WA says:

              So glad you came through ok Barb!! Hope the recovery is speedy too!! Yea…the cost is awful isn’t it? I am afraid to think what my repairs are going to cost…oh well, tis only money eh?

  51. Lauri from SoCal says:

    Great entry!!! Thanks!!!

  52. Terri with Snow west of Houston! says:

    Hey!
    I went back and caught the comments about Nomadland this morning. If I end up buying it I will do so through YOUR blog so you can make some money off it! Heh heh!
    We woke up to about an inch of snow this a.m.! Whoo hoo! We get excited about that around here! I ran around taking pics, letting the dog walk in it, and even built a couple of little snowmen. Last week was warm!! Too weird, but a neat way to start a Texas winter. Ya’ll take care!

    • Diann in MT says:

      Author Ms. Bruder needs to share her royalties from the book with Sue, with all the publicity her book is getting on this blog!

      Glad you got snow, Terri! I know a couple people from church who snowbird it down your way. HAH. They just left high 40’s and 50’s bright sunny days! Oh. the irony.

      I love the fact that you let your puppy enjoy the rare event!

  53. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    Terri, the weatherman is hinting that we may get snow Sat or Sun! YIKES! I need to get all my plants covered! High today is 46° 😢 brrrrrr!

    • Barb in Florida says:

      Hi Geri!

      Did you get any snow? It’s chilly, cloudy here today only 54 degrees now. We got rain instead of snow, but really really needed it. This is great “hot flash” weather. You can run outside.

  54. That’s quite the pack to care for!! Bless him for giving them all a place to grow old where they can run free with each other.

  55. ApplegirlNY says:

    Catching up after a busy week. Great post, as others have said. Such a happy time.
    I’m praying for all of those who are having some bumps in the road, especially Elizabeth.

    As far as that book writer. I won’t even giver her the satisfaction of a click – LOL, that’s the best I can do. We love our Sue and Crew.

  56. Dawn in NC says:

    Can’t believe we got snow ⛄️ ❄️ and it stuck! It was so beautiful coming down. Glad that I didn’t lose power as some of my friends did. We get snow so rarely, it lets me enjoy all the more what we do get! 🛷

  57. SuziCruzi says:

    Yes, great post about all the doggers Del has rescued and cared for. Bless him for his heart and soul towards those lovely creatures. You too Sue. You are a wonderful dog mom. Big hug.

  58. Mertandasiainky says:

    Hi Sue and Crew,
    I am still here and traveling along with you 3.
    Lots has happened in our little corner of north east Kentucky
    Too much to go into, but long story short, sold my parents home, so that was a very hard job of sorting through 50 plus years of life, i bought my sisters house 2 doors up from my parents home ( which is also the same property my apartment is on) so i have 2 homes, renting the apt out.
    The big news, my parents neighbor had a pup that they could no longer keep for whatever reason, they were about to take him to the pound when i heard what was going on, SO….
    Asia now has a brother. His name is Charlie, he is beagle/boxer/sweet wild man mix 😉
    Asia is 9 years old and charlie is 6 months old, so its quite the entertainment around here. 🙂 i had no plans what so ever to get a new dog, but no way could i let that little feller go to the pound. So we welcome charlie brown to the family.
    Safe travels to you and all. And happy holidays
    Mert, asia and charlie

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you, Mert…. Great news! You’ve accomplished a lot.

      Congratulations and applause for bringing Charlie into your home and family! May the three of you be blessed with many years of fun and companionship. 🙂

  59. Terri in Tx. Nice and nippy! says:

    So, did Florida get snow, Geri? And great story Meet! Glad you had success in selling your parents home. We are still working on getting my spouses parents home sold. Good luck with your new puppy!

  60. rvsueandcrew says:

    HI, FOLKS!

    Working on a new post after a few starts that went nowhere over the past two days…. It will be done sometime this afternoon.

    Happy Sunday!

    Sue

  61. LiSe says:

    What a sweet post. So glad there are people like you and Del to rescue the unwanted and abandoned. Hoping for a good spell for Toby. Seventeen is remarkable now for a large dog.

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