Recently, my 13" Beagle, Noki, and I went to the SC School for the Deaf & Blind for our last visit of the school year.  We have been visiting there for the past year, and have made many new friends, students and staff, alike.  My first stop was at Roberson Hall with the blind youngsters were
we had a great visit.  This group of young students is always so full of questions; they just sponge up any and all details about my family and all of my dogs.
Our next (unscheduled) stop was at "Gray House".  In the yard were three of the older boys who we usually see at the multi-handicapped center. These young men, Chris, Rudy and Ronnie, and their "house-mother" were just finishing a game of soccer.  So Noki and I pulled over to say good-bye for
the summer.  The woman was very nice and excited that we stopped, she ran in the house to get her camera.  We took a couple pictures, then, they all invited me inside to show me "their house", as this is where the older students learn "life skills".  These three wonderful young men had just graduated from the school and will be moving on to the real world soon.
They took us, (me and Noki) on a tour of their little house, showing me their rooms, and how they keep them clean and straightened up, all their belongings, and their prized possessions: PICTURES!!  They even shared their yearbook with me, they were really proud of it.

Then we moved on to the kitchen where they have learned to prepare meals, snacks & cookies!  We celebrated their graduation by eating cookies; Noki had a piece of bologna, while we looked through photo albums.  We looked at pictures of all their friends and fellow students and of course ALL of their activities and accomplishments!!
I had a GREAT time!  I didn't leave till after nine o'clock. You know, our dogs are a foot in the door to these facilities.  Our dogs do bring a lot of happiness, but most of all, I believe, the residents want and need to TALK & INTERACT with others.  And in this case, just be a part of the real world.  It was a fulfilling evening, one I will not soon forget.

Thanks to those who continue to give me this opportunity!!

Evelyn