Day 1206

The boys love to be out on the front porch with their humans! Although there are many choices for enjoying the view, they choose to gather close to each other. As I watch them, this “Halo of Goldens” will reach out to touch the others as if to make sure they are still connected. It is endearing.

Humans seem to form a Venn diagram in this realm. On one side would be the “connectors and touchers” while the other side would hold those who are “non-touchers.” The intersecting parts of the two rings would contain those who are more discerning of their interactions. Although most of us would be in the middle, I have known those who fall into the outside rings.

We all know individuals who DO NOT welcome a hug! Their body language screams this at any approaching person with an intent to envelope them. This does not mean they are unloving…but need their space. I respect that.

Like Goldens, I tend to be a bit of an outlier in that I am a hugger. There are times when I dance my way over the Venn diagram line to “the other side.” I warn people about that trait as I approach, but also am quite adept at “reading the room” and can abort a hugfest before any awkwardness is involved. Full disclosure: There have been a time or two when a hug was met with limp arms and a retreat after my hug. Lesson learned.

Hugger or loner, we all need to know others are near. It’s simply finding the right level of affection for everyone’s place in the diagram. As for me and my Goldens (especially Sammy), we will hug first and ask questions later!