Finally! Charlie and Hank are beginning to “look different!” Hank’s head is starting to broaden while Charlie (in the back) looks more and more like his Puppy Mama! Before their faces began to mature, we could only identify them by the texture of their fur…Charlie was a bit smoother on his back. Of course, their personalities were different, but not much.
Genetics fascinate me. It is interesting to watch a young family at a restaurant and observe their common traits. The walk, the hand gestures and physical features are just a few of the traits that are passed down. Even when there are blended families or those who have adopted, there are still signs that the young follow in their elders footsteps.
Looking at my own pack, there are certainly genetic tendencies as well as habits, mannerisms, beliefs and learned “life reactions” that are evident. Of course, I am a blending of the generation that walked before me. Thinking of what I would hope to pass on, I remember my elders with a smile. Giving myself the task of blurting out the first word that comes to mind, here is my heritage in a nutshell…
*Nanny: warmth
*Dad: grace
*Mom: devotion
*Grandma Lois: strength
*Uncle Chuck: joy
*Aunt Beryl: acceptance
*Uncle Dick: resilience
*Aunt Marion: humor
*Uncle Larry: calm
I could go on, but the family tree modeled some pretty wonderful attributes. These were my models. Hopefully, I have taken some of their best qualities into my own heart and try to pass them on as the tree grows.
It was a good exercise for me. Try it!
