Meet Libby- the Inspiration Behind Libby's House, Senior Assisted Living

Today's guest book is from someone I truly love... yup, my mom!  Take it away, Mom!

Frankie and I have been volunteering at Libby's House for a little over two years now.  Each and every month we visit I leave with a renewed sense of what this thing called life is all about... and the visits remind me to enjoy each and every moment in life... especially the simple joys and moments.
Libby's House is named after the owner, Christine Thill's very special grandma, Libby.  Just recently at the age of 103, Libby moved into Libby's House and there she celebrated her 104th birthday in November.
Frankie and I had the honor of meeting Libby in November and I was so touched to meet, not only someone who is 104, but someone whose spirit is still shining so brightly you just want to be around her all the time.
So Frankie and I returned for a special photo opportunity in early December to get Frankie's photo with the very special Libby.  I felt my heart overwhelm with joy when Libby crossed her hands on her chest and said, "It was such an honor to have my photo with Frankie."  Tears instantly pooled in my eyes because to me it was such an honor for me to have Frankie's picture with her.

As we were leaving I picked up Frankie and held her near Libby so she could pet her again.  Libby put her hand on Frankie's back and said, "Frankie.... love."
 
It is moments like that with Libby and many others that I am so grateful for my therapy dog work with Frankie... so many blessings I have experienced.
To learn more about our visits to Libby's House you can check out my book titled, Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House.

Making Friends as a Therapy Dog

Being a therapy dog I make lots of friends!  Once a month I volunteer at my local hospital.  I also volunteer once or twice a month at a local community hospice.  This is where people who are sick come to stay who have 6 months or less to live.  It is very beautiful at this hospice called Sharon S. Richardson Hospice Community.

Then once a month I visit Libby's House (this is the place my new book is all about!). Most of the residents are older- like grandma's and grandpa's.  One of my favorite residents is Lyla (not her real name).  She just turned 96 years old!

She has a hard time talking, but that's ok, I just listen and pretend I know what she is saying.  Most times I lick and lick her hand to show her I love her.  One day as I was licking her hand she said, "Kisses."  Clear as a bell!  My mom couldn't believe it!  That was the only clear word she has ever said, but we thought it was very special.  Just as special as Lyla is.

Frankie Raises Money for Alzheimer's Association with New Children's Book

It was a very special day on Sunday- no naps for me, which I usually do. But I had a very special engagement with my mom, papa and all the residents and their families at Libby's House. In case you are wondering, Libby's House is a senior assisted living facility.


Some of the residents have trouble remembering things, or sometimes even their own families. I know that is sad, but to cheer them up, I visit with them once a month. They have all become dear friends. That is why my mom and I wrote my new book, Frankie, the Walk 'N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby's House. In this very special book I tell you all about how I became a registered therapy dog through Therapy Dogs Incorporated and all the friends I make at Libby's House.

David and Tina Thill owners of Libby's House offered to host launching our new book officially out into the world. Tracy, Certified Senior Adviser, and promotional extraordinare helped in promoting the event. I was able to put my pawtograph on many books sold and donate $200 to the Alzheimer's Association. That made my heart feel all warm and fuzzy, just like when I visit with my friends at Libby's House.

We are very grateful to Libby's House for helping us launch our new book!!

My papa workin' the book table

Co-owner of Libby's House, Tina, me and my mom

Co-owner of Libby's House, Tina, me and Certified Senior Adviser, Tracy

Mom, papa and me