Always be ready for an adventure

7/3/2021

Mental Health Mantra 66/365 and Dog Mantra

Day 66 and Dog for the Day is Doodles.

He is an 8 year old Bichon Frise. I have known Doodles since he was a puppy because him and Luna have their birthday 15 days apart and they used to play with each other in the park in the early years.

Doodles is a real Love Bug.

Michelle Beaver, his Mum told me ...."Doodles sleeps on our bed, has 2 to 3 proper walks a day. He understands many words, including 'walks, meander, cheese, treats, chicken, ball, and even poo bags!!' He is even getting to learn how to spell when we spell out words. When we're going out he looks at us and goes to front door to make sure we know he's there waiting. When any of us come home, he grabs a toy and brings it to the front door to show us. He loves his tennis ball."

Why is Doodles wearing a Daffodil I hear you ask?

Doodles is always up for an adventure, he is supporting Michelle who is an AMAZING fundraiser for Marie Curie, who started the Daffodil appeal. When I saw the photograph of Doodles wearing the daffodil, I knew I had to paint him. I believe he wasn't that impressed with wearing it but the fact he's always up for an adventure means he'll give it a go.

Michelle has been fundraising for Marie Curie for 5 years; this charity helped her family hugely when it was needed most. Since then she has been giving back by volunteering and fundraising. She tells me she has met some amazing people along the way, including Royalty, quiz show hosts, and Loose Women!

Michelle's commitment to challenging herself and having adventures is second to none. This must be where Doodles has got it from. She has trekked around the world, including China, Grand Canyon, Sri Lanka, Kilimanjaro, Ben Nevis, the last one being Nepal 2020 when she went with her daughter. When lockdown began in March 2020, Michelle needed a new challenge and she began her cycling 2020 miles in 2020 which she brilliantly completed on 11 December 2020 raising £1417. I am sure Doodles would have been right by her side if he could.

Support and Like Michelle's page Facebook page as it is all about raising awareness and fundraising for the charity. 100% of the money donated by people goes directly to the charity Marie Curie.

Photo courtesy of Michelle

Doodles is always up for an adventure, he's ready and waiting. This is the photo that really grabbed me as I thought it would be fab to draw and paint The Essence of Doodles!

His Dog Mantra reminds us to be open to an adventure and be spontaneous - life is for living and enjoying. Dogs teach us that in a huge way don't they.

Thank you Doodles, and Thank you Michelle.