Cameron and Karin with Joie– our friends from Illinois

As you all know, I’ve had so many blessings because of my work with Frankie.  People I would have never met, but now know because of my little love dog on wheels.

Three years ago I had the honor of meeting the kindest family. They were visiting our small village staying at the big resort in our town, the Osthoff.  They ventured off to the small shops one day. It was there that eight year old Cameron spotted the book about Frankie which the local shop, CottageWood, carried. It was perfect because he happens to adore dachshunds.

As he carried the book proudly in his arms he ran into my dear friend, Victoria who happened to be the manager of the shop at the time, along with the small complex of a grocery store and coffee shop.  She saw the book Cameron was carrying and said, “I just happen to know the author of that book.  I can’t promise anything, but just maybe I could see if she and Frankie could come meet you.”

These are the moments in life that sometimes feel unsure, but then turn out to be something that stays in your heart always.  Frankie and I ventured down to the shop and it was hard not to fall head over heels in love with the sweet little boy who was shy, but excited to meet his new hero of the book he just got.  As it would also turn out a TV station from the neighboring big city wanted to do a story about Frankie.  We arranged it that Cameron and his parents could be part of the interview.  A lovely and beautiful memory was made… but most importantly, a friendship began.

They visited again the following year and Frankie and Cameron were united once again… and little did we know for the last time. They grieved the loss of Frankie, along with so many Frankie fans.  But they were so happy to hear when Joie came into my life. Their third annual trip was in the making to once again visit our village this year, so they emailed to see if they could meet Joie.

We spent a lovely morning with Cameron grinning from ear to ear, happy to meet his new pal, Joie, and also Kylie. Dog stories flew left and right and my heart melted for the love of these special people and sweet son for their love of not only Frankie, but now Joie too (and of course, Kylie).

I couldn’t help but give the big stuffed Frankie toy I had gotten from “Build-A-Bear” to Cameron. I know he will take the best care of it and will add to his collection of stuffed toys who are no doubt very well loved.

I’ve had many grateful moments in my life because of Frankie and I begin them again with Joie… and the Thein family I count among those treasured moments.