Harlow
After she gobbled, in two bites, the banana that Dad Andrew offered to her, Harlow excitedly followed him to the car. She sat eagerly next to the front passenger side door and waited.
Yes, shotgun, please.
“You want to ride shotgun, Harlow?” Mom Lexi scratched her ears and kissed her golden head.
Harlow’s tail wagged quickly.
Dad moved to the driver’s side, clicking open all the doors.
Mom opened Harlow’s door. In one long, smooth, elegant move, Harlow floated up and sat in the front seat.
Lexi retreated to the back seat, directly behind her. It isn’t worth trying to get Harlow into the back seat.
No.
This is where she wants to be.
This is where I belong.
And so it is.
Mom Lexi held dog sister Maya in the backseat. And off they went.
Harlow loving life!
Harlow didn’t know if they would arrive at Dad Andrew’s parents’ home on a lake, north of Hudson, WI or a visit to Lexi's parent's home in Mahtomedi. Maya agrees, that would be grand! But it doesn’t matter - we are going to play!
Today the destiny is Lumber Jack Days in Stillwater! Next time it could be a visit to the Christkindl Market. Or maybe the food truck festival. Lexi and Andrew make a point of socializing Harlow every chance they have - it’s a blessing to share this fabulous girl. She’s delighted to be loved and pet by…anyone. You’d think she’d never had loves before.
Getting ready to meet people!
This happy family came together in several stages. Before Andrew reconnected with Lexi in 2019 (they dated in high school), he journeyed to Reno Lake, a small town in northern Minnesota to meet a litter of Golden Retriever puppies. He adored a small girl with white paws and a white stripe down the front of her chest. He held her close. He knew she was the one. Harlow also knew, as she heard his beating heart. She felt warm and safe against his chest.
Harlow slept the entire 5 hour drive back home. She was potty trained within two weeks. Harlow arriving at her forever home was a very special occasion so Dad presented her with a very special welcome home present: a stuffed bear.
BINGO!
Bear goes with her everywhere. Always. Although Mom and Dad have bought back up bears, just in case - there’s no need. She loves, forever and ever, her first tattered bear even though he eventually lost his arms and legs.
Of course it didn’t take long for her to learn tricks: sit, down, shake, and speak. She’s also been known to don striking bandanas to accentuate her exquisite face. Perhaps a turkey kielbasa and rice were involved in getting her dressed. Perhaps. Or another banana. In the winter, she will strike a pose with her Viking purple winter coat. A true Minnesotan.
Game Day!
Meanwhile, a beautiful woman and her loving dog Maya, a Mini-Australian pup (who is five in March, 2026) again caught the eyes of Andrew and Harlow.
Harlow’s happy family
On Valentine’s Day, 2024, Andrew and Lexi were married. Harlow and Maya, after a “getting to know you” period, have become best sister friends. Always.
Settling in to their home, both Harlow and Maya eagerly dash out the front door and run to play in a courtyard that the their townhome HOA provides. They will chase and tease each other and sometimes engage neighbor dogs, as well. Mom and Dad report that having two dogs is worth every crazy moment.
I will protect Luke!
Their joy kept expanding and in early 2025, they all welcomed human baby Luke. Both Harlow and Maya are very, very tender with Luke, although they think his toys are for them, as well as baby brother. Harlow will give Luke a quick kiss and slyly grab his toy, prancing away with it. Everyone is learning to share.
Luke and Harlow
Luckily, Mom Lexi is able to work from home a couple of days a week. On the other days, Harlow and Maya enjoy a brisk walk with a fun dog walker. Inevitably, Harlow will become very excited when she sees another dog or person. She loves everyone. You’d think she’d never been loved on in her life.
Thankfully Harlow’s health is quite good. Save her allergies. Sadly, she’s allergic to grass and feathers, so she has a limited diet. Her friends at Carver Lake Veterinary Center have her covered. Harlow feels much better with medications and scratches.
After a fun filled day of teasing Luke, chasing Maya, and being the best Golden Retriever in their home, it’s time for bed. With careful supervision by Harlow and Maya, Mom and Dad tuck Luke in his crib for the night.
Harlow knows this routine. She collects her bear and heads for her own big bed on the bedroom floor. Harlow likes her own space. Maya follows and settles in to her own bed, separate from, but next to Harlow’s.
Bear!
Soon Mom and Dad also retire. Harlow takes a short trip to Luke’s room-he’s okay. She lifts her head to ensure Mom and Dad are also tucked in, safe and sound. Yep.
She turns twice and settles into her own big bed, bear in tow. She lets out a heavy sigh, lowers her head and closes her eyes. Tonight Harlow will dream of her wonderful life - a forever home with forever love.
