Walkin’ with Winnie

Howdy, Neighbor. People have been telling Phil he’s a good storyteller for a long time… so we are trying something new and pretty-much non-sales Just sharing occasional sweet stories, tall tales, and life lessons learned around these parts. Northwoods Notes are a new, semi-bi-irregular peek into the heart and mind of Phil Frasier… you can read or listen… whichever you prefer… and you are receiving a copy because you’re a current customer of Frasier’s Plumbing and Heating, Inc. We think you’ll like them, but you can unsubscribe any time by clicking on the link at the bottom. But we hope you give us a chance!

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My sons, Scott and Bruce recently came over to the house for a visit. Bruce brought along his one-year-old golden retriever, Winnie.

All three of us have been pretty busy with work… but we were making time for each other.

As we were talking, one of the boys brought up the old tree stand back behind our shed. It had been a while since the three of us had ventured out that way, so we took Winnie and ventured out into the woods to visit our tree stand.

As we were walking down the path, we saw three grouse jump up.

Now, Winnie had never experienced grouse before. And I’ve been with a lot of dogs in the field, but her reaction took the cake. It was hilarious.

She reared back, her ears sprang up, and she took off! I’ve never seen a dog run so fast in my life. She was so excited as she bolted back and forth up and down the trail.

In that moment, Winnie was a true golden retriever. She was doing what God put her on this planet to do.

When we got back to the house, I pulled out some partridge wings I had been saving for training and hid them all over the yard.

Winnie had a blast finding all those partridge wings. As soon as she found them, we’d challenge her by hiding them in harder spots. But Winnie was in her element, so she had no problem at all sniffing them out. I’ve never seen a dog so happy. She couldn’t contain her pure joy.

We were all put on God’s green earth for a purpose. But sometimes, we get distracted… discouraged… and detached from doing what we were made to do.

Watching Winnie work that day, I began thinking of the things that bring me joy and fulfillment.

For me, it’s spending time with others in the great outdoors. It makes me feel alive. Nothing’s better than a day of laughter, love, and life with my inner circle.

The boys and I took time to do what we’re made to do… and Winnie discovered her true purpose that day, too.

What’s your purpose? Why were you put on this earth? How did God hardwire you for happiness?

Whatever it is… I sincerely hope you’re still doing it.

If not, maybe we should take a walk with Winnie.

Take care, neighbor. Take good care.

P.S. – Winnie says she hopes to see you out this Grouse season?