Surprise!

Greetings and surprise! It’s me, Elsa, the Ninja Ranch Hand here to share a wonderful occasion with everyone. We rarely post on Saturday but we just couldn’t let today pass without honoring my brother. Recently my brother’s original Mom contacted us and provided us with Norman’s exact date of birthday. Mom had long thought he was a little older than the rescue thought and she was right. Twelve years ago today, a little fur ball came into this world and has been brightening everyone whose path he crossed ever since. Norman (who was always called Norman BTW) entered our lives in January of 2020 and while I don’t always show it, I do love this big lunkhead. He’s always sweet (even when he’d probably prefer to swat me into next week because I can be a bit of a pill) and is the most even keeled dog Mom has ever known.

Norman - birthday
Happy 12th Birthday!

Everyone at the hospital adores him and he’s one of the  favorite dogs visiting nurses and staff throughout the hospital. Recently we’ve seen him starting to slow down and Mom thought it might be time for him to retire and live a life of leisure since it was becoming harder and harder for him to get up from laying on slick hospital floors. Then our pet therapy group wondered if Norman could just be a door greeter  welcoming visitors into the hospital. Mom will bring a nice comfy pad for him to lay on while bringing his special kind of therapy to all who see him. He will wish patients well when they are discharged as well as when they check in at the hospital. We’re going to try it out and see if it will work because he’s just so special.

In the meantime, my Mom and I plan to dote on the big fur-ball this weekend and will shower him with treats and loads of attention while he brings us smiles. I mean who wouldn’t-just look at this sweetheart. He started out being a lounge lizard as a puppy and he’s still one which always makes Mom smile.

Norman has never once balked at all the stupid hats or costumes Mom dresses him up in. His good nature is always front and center and when Mom comes home, he runs and grabs a favorite toy to show her he’s glad she’s home. This dog is a dream, I could learn a few things from him but I’m endearing in my own special way. But Norman…well he’s just something extra special and filled my Mom’s heart with tender comfort when Sam crossed the bridge. I’m convinced he saved her more than she saved him.

Mom thanks her lucky stars every single day for this wonderful dog who brightens up everyone’s mood and brings more smiles and chuckles than you can imagine. We couldn’t be more grateful for this boy and hope we can celebrate more birthdays and special times with this hunk of love. Happy Birthday, sweet Norman. We love ya to the moon and back, dude.

Here are a few of his most notable poses. Is there a sweeter dog around, I don’t think so.

The Dogtor is ready to make his rounds

This boy is beloved by young and old but especially by us. Happy birthday, sweet boy.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

68 thoughts on “Surprise!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Carolyn. Bitter sweet this week, for sure.

  1. FiveSibesMom – Mom, along with my daughter, to five beautiful Siberian Huskies we fondly call "The Kids." One, Gibson, is an Epi-Husky and was diagnosed in 2009 with Canine Epilepsy. I have published a children's illustrated book, a FiveSibes™ Tale, called "What's Wrong With Gibson? Learning About K-9 Epilepsy," and "EPIc Dog Tales: Heartfelt Stories About Amazing Dogs Living & Loving Life With Canine Epilepsy." I also published a second FiveSibes Tale: "Getting Healthy With Harley: Learning About Health & Fitness, and "Buddy, the Christmas Husky~A True Holiday Miracle." My Siberian Huskies are my muses for the FiveSibes blog and FiveSibes: Siberian Husky K9 News & Reviews Facebook page and I love them very much! My books can be purchased from my publishing house: ArcticHouse Publishing at www.ArcticHousePublishing.com, and also on Amazon. (On Amazon, to be sure you have me, check that the seller is ArcticHouse Publishing).
    Dorothy "FiveSibesMom" says:

    Oh, handsome Stormin’ Norman…such a sweetheart! <3 I loved all your pics, but especially his Birthday one! Hope his day was super special. xo

  2. Happy Birthday, handsome Norman! Gosh, we never would have guessed him to be 12 years old, he looks so much younger! We’re glad you were able to find out the date! ♥

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you, Jan. OES are notorious for always looking young. Wish I knew how they manage to do it!

  3. mommakatandherbearcat – Cats: Expect the Unexpected. We dare you to challenge everything you think you know about cats and what cats are capable of adding to our lives!
    mommakatandherbearcat says:

    Happy birthday, Norman!!!
    ps – Did Elsa really just admit to sometimes being a pill?

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you. Yes, she knows exactly what she is and what she does. Gotta love that level of self-assuredness-just wish I knew from where it came. Certainly not from me! 😆

  4. I like his sweet face. I don’t think I would mind a bit if he was greeting me at the door. Happy Birthday big boy!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, this for such a lovely comment. Norman would likely be wiggling as he met you.

  5. BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum – On Georgian Bay..... – Welcome to THE Purrfect Pad. My name is Sherri-Ellen & my current Kitty Girl is BellaDharma a black part Siamese cat. I started blogging in August 2005 on Yahoo 360 with Mingflower my Bluepoint Siamese. Then transferred to Multiply...Mingflower went to Summerland & NYLABLUE my BluePoint Siamese/Burmese cross took over. When Multiply was closing a handful of our blogging friends recommended WordPress & we found a home here & made many new friends. Everyone followed the antics & struggles of NYLABLUE until her passing Nov. 22nd, 2014 to Summerland. A week later a little bouncing Burmese boy I met at a local adoption event joined me here! Dec. 9th, 2014. Purrince Siddhartha Henry came to live with me & regaled us with his journey towards 'Enlightenment'. He was a Burmese Buddhist with many health issues but he searched for meaning in his Life. After his lifelong struggle with Panleukopenia. Siddhartha Henry lost his battle & left for Pure Land August 28th, 2018. He was only 4 years & 1 month old. I've never totally gotten over the loss of my "Little Man". And this is where I get VERY serious. This Purrfect Pad blog is not all sunshine & roses. This blog is about REAL life with special needs cats who come into my life. We share our time together & we share the good, the bad & the ugly. This is a REAL blog. Yes we DO laugh & have fun & take Selfies! And we share each cat's struggles whether health issues or behavioural problems. And we share about my ongoing battle with 3 health conditions that can render me unable to walk plus having Cirrhosis of Liver & Seizures. We ask our friends & followers to respect that THE Purrfect Pad is anything but 'purrfect'. I am disabled & each of my cats' have had special needs. Everyone is welcome here as long as you are kind & respectful. If you have questions feel free to ask them. Sept. 6th, 2018 BellaDharma aka Baby Girl joined THE Purrfect Pad. We hope all of you will follow our life together as BellaDharma learns how to be a domesticated cat instead of a semi-feral one.... Love, Peace & Treets, Sherri-Ellen (BellaSita Mum) & BellaDharma & 'angels' Purrince Siddhartha Henry; Nylablue 'Sweet Feet' & Mingflower the Merciless & all my other cats who have shared my life with me. You are all loved & remembered...
    BellaDharma an BellaSita Mum says:

    Happy happy Beelated 12th Birfday mee Sweet darlin Norman!
    You look so amazin inn all yore fotoss!!
    Yore so furry hansum….. **sighss**
    Wee think ‘THE Door Greeter’ idea is a wunderfull idea fore you…..wee think it iss purrfect!!!
    Much <3 <3 an ***paw kissess*** BellaDharma an <3 <3 an {{{hugss}}} BellaSita Mum

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, thank you for those kind words. We hope the door greeter position works well for Norman. I know he’ll be more than welcome doing it. Hugs and tail wags.

  6. Marcela – Stoughton, MA – I am a dog trainer located in Annapolis, MD and I offer the following: Private Behavior and Training Classes, Seminars, Single Behavior Modification Sessions, and Speaking Engagements Opportunities. Also Group Classes til 10/31/24.
    Marcela says:

    Happy birthday Norman!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks for the kind birthday wishes.

  7. Sue (Mac's Girl) – Seventy-something. Mother of 3, Grandmother of 5, great-grandmother of 1. Likes gardening, photography, philately, writing, reading and life in general.
    Sue (Mac's Girl) says:

    Happy Birthday, Norman!

  8. You’re the cutest doggie, sweet Norman and we love you too, even more after reading your story. You’re one of a kind, sweetie💗 Double Pawkisses for a Happy Birthday and many more to come🎉🐾😽💞

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, you guys are too sweet. Thank you!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      And many thanks to you both!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks for the Barkday wishes!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      💙

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks Evil Squirrel!

  9. onespoiledcat – Virginia – We are Angel Sammy and Teddy......! Two ginger cats - one left for the Rainbow Bridge in December of 2016 (but still keeps in touch...) and the other in the "here and now" having lots of fun. Join us as we try to bring smiles to everyone around us with our blog.
    onespoiledcat says:

    Oh Norman you are amazing – and just think – everyone who knows you loves you to bits and what – I ask – is better than that????? Nothing!!! Happy Birthday and many, many more!

    Hugs, Teddy

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks so much, Teddy.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Many thanks for the kind comment. I know if he could, Norman would plant a soft pupster kiss on your face.

  10. edgar62 – Semi-retired in South Australia. Interests are Music (Andre Rieu, Anna Netrebko) Reading (SciFi / Crime) and History Movies: The Day After Tomorrow, Casablanca, The Man Who Would be King Community: Secretary Support group, Royal Flying Doctor Service.
    edgar62 says:

    A very Happy Birthday, Norman. Hope you are having a lovely day. You really must be a Special Boy when my Favourite Ninja sings your praises. I like the idea of the ” Door Dog” where you greet people entering the hospital and give them a special farewell when they leave – you work your magic both ways – coming and going. Benji was born – we believe, sometime in 2012. I decided on 15th October because that was the date we adopted him from Mount Gambier rescue. Anyway, Norman, I loved being part of your life – allbeit a small part – and I hope I can still be for a while yet.. Have a Great Day.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      You’re too kind, John, thank you. We’re pleased as punch that you always leave a nice comment and of course, we adore sweet, Benji. It was such as joy to learn Norman’s early history. We were very fortunate his Mum reached out. She’s now following us on Facebook and we’re super happy to be able to share his sweetness, especially with those who originally loved him. I know Elsa loves her big brother though sometimes, she can be a bit of a sticker toward him. But she wags more and attacks less, so that’s progress on her part. 💙

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      You’re too kind, thank you.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks so much for the well wishes, Cindy. We appreciate all the kind comments.

  11. Genevieve Petrillo – I'm a teacher-turned-writer - Author of Keep Your Ear on the Ball (Tilbury, 2007) and What If I Don't? (Meegenius, 2014). I love doing school visits and author talks. My stories, poetry, and teaching ideas have been seen in many teachers' and children's magazines. In my free time, I volunteer with Ocean County Volunteers for the Blind and TheraPet.
    Genevieve Petrillo says:

    Oh, Norman! Happiest of birthday weekends! You are the handsomest of handsome pups, and being the hospital greeter and well-wisher is just the perfect job for you. Enjoy your special day, buddy. xoxo

    Love and licks,
    Cupcake

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Many thanks, Cupcake. You’re too kind.

  12. Dakota/Caren/Cody – Michigan – Freelance writer, pet blogging professional, product influencer, half of the writing team behind Dakota's Den and "Cat Chat With Cody & Caren" Most importantly, I am a "pet mom" to Dakota, (Shetland Sheepdog) and Cody (my silver gray tabby!)
    Cat and Dog Chat With Caren says:

    Happiest of birthdays Norman!!!!!!!! I can see just how special you are! Guess what? Today is Roary’s birthday too! Enjoy your special day! xoxo

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aww, thank you for the kind wishes. And happy birthday wishes to handsome Roary!

  13. Dalton,Benji aka Meezer’s Mews & Terrieristical Woofs – We're Angel-Pipo & Angel-Minko-WeBeesSiameezers! And Angel-MrJackFreckles was our barky doggy brofur. And now we have Dalton and Benji , our little doggy brofurs. MJF: April 30, 2002; Gotcha Day: June 10, 2002; RB Day: Feb 5, 2018. Pipo: Dec 26, 2004; Gotcha Day: Feb 14, 2005. RBDay: Nov3,2020; Minko: Dec 29, 2004; Gotcha Day: Feb 14, 2005; RB Day: June 18, 2017. Dalton: Gotcha Day Sept 27, 2017 Birthday: Unknown...probably sometime in 2016...he has been assigned a Birthday: Aug 20, 2016. Benji: Birthday: June6,2018; GotchaDay: Dec 28, 2019 So we are Dalton & Benji...enjoy our blog:)
    Meezer'sMews&TerrieristicalWoofs says:

    Happy Birthday to YOU, Norman!

    Benji is wearing that same hat in his BD pics…coming in our next post. (Petcretary says the Dollar Store is one of her friends, BOL!)

    We think you don’t look a day over two, but yes, those joints…petcretary can attest to that, too. We are too young to have those issues…MJF had some troubles, but Glucosamine/MSM and Chondroitin were quite helpful, and later we added some boswellia.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Many thanks for the kind wishes. Yes, Norman has been on Glucosamine/MSM since he was adopted and transitioned to Dasuquin (an amped up version) earlier this year at the suggestion of his vet. I may add boswellia as another potential helpful supplement. He’s really slowed down in the past 6 weeks but I’m doing everything I can to make things as comfortable as possible for him. It’s rough watching them quickly age overnight in front of your eyes.

  14. Awww, how sweet of you, Elsa, to admit you really do love your brother…though I knew it all along! Being a “little sister” myself, I can spot the signs right off the bat. ❤️🐾

    To Norman: The Z Kids and I send you lots and lots of hugs and kisses for your birthday!! I think being a greeter at the hospital door will be perfect! You can still do what you love but be more physically comfortable doing it! 💙🐾

    And, Monika, I know how much you depend on Norman’s special brand of love…I depend on my Zen the same way, all day/every day. ❤️❤️🐾🐾

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you for the birthday wishes. These special dogs are such incredible gifts of which we are both the recipients of their love and companionship.

  15. marthadilo3 – Cleveland – A classic overthinker trying to age gracefully while living with a big, too smart for his own good shelter pup who must have his daily walk.
    Marthadilo3 says:

    Happy birthday to you Mr Norman! Cuteness overload!!! Dogs are all different but I haven’t seen one exude as much sweetness as you.hope you live it up with your extra treats!!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Many thanks for your kind wishes. Since returning from my granddaughter’s wedding, I’ve been very sick but did give Norman loads of loving attention while we both catnapped most of the past several days.

  16. Awww, Norman … enjoy your special day, it is well deserved! Obviously your Mom loves you a wholabunch (also deserved) and you’re quite the guy with all you do, all you have given to others! Just like you, we think, to NOT actually go into retirement … but to find another way to give of yourself. Happy Birthday handsome (love all your photos).

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks Ann and June. This dog is such a sweetheart and so patient with all me silliness. I’m so blessed.

  17. Kate Crimmins – Retired Human Resources executive with two bossy cats ready to share insights, experiences and wisdom to make you laugh and think in new ways.
    Kate Crimmins says:

    Happy birthday Norman! Hard to believe he’s that old (not that it’s old!) 🙂

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Trust me, it’s pretty old for such a big dog. But he still has a youthful expression. That’s one of the coolest things about Old English Sheepdogs.

  18. livelaughbarkblog – Stay at home mom to , Basset hounds Lilly Jane and new addition Oliver Lee and my son. Along with my husband we currently reside in Northeast Pennsylvania. Our beloved Great Pyrenees Molly Sue passed away 11-6-2016.
    livelaughbarkblog says:

    Happy Birthday Norman 🎉🎊🎉 you always make us smile 😃

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks. We’re so glad you enjoy him; he tends to make everyone smile.

  19. Lucy: We’ve been following Norman since he joined your household and remember all these pictures, all of which tell a story. Our 2 favorites are the one with Norman wearing the doctor’s smock and the one of him kissing the doctor.
    Xena: Yep, and I really like the one of him outside and the lady leaning over to him and all the little dogs around him. I think maybe he was about to get a treat!
    Chia: Happy birthday, you knucklehead, fur ball, Norman!
    Everyone: Happy 12th birthday Norman, and wishes for many more!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks for the lovely birthday wishes. Norman came into my life when I needed him most and has brought me joy every single day since. I was so blessed he came in my life when he did.

  20. Happy BD Norm! You’ve got a great lil sis there who really loves you. And BTW Miss Elsa, how gracious of you to acknowledge your brother in such a mature and loving way! Enjoy your day Norm with lots of treats, belly rubs, ear scratches and then rinse and repeat. P.s., My Kloe was looking over my shoulder at the photos of you and could barely contain herself. She is Seven bit goes for the older, wiser, and more distinguished men. You certainly fill that bill!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks for the birthday wishes, Mike. Norman is one of those dogs that people and animals just gravitate toward. He’s such a love. No doubt he’d love being with sweet Kloe.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Many thanks, Helen. We are keeping our paws crossed he’s with us for a good long time.🤞🏼

  21. derrycats – I am a pet sitter who lives with a houseful of animals as well, many of whom have medical and special needs. This blog is my reflection on the joys and blessings of living with our three cats and two dogs, and lots and lots of foster dogs and cats.
    derrycats says:

    Happy, happy birthday Norman! Hope you get some fun treats for your special day.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks. Not to fear, he’s going to be well spoiled this weekend. Come to think of it, he gets spoiled every day because he’s such a love and deserves it.

  22. Amy Law – Amy Law is a science geek. She feels about science the way some people feel about music, or art, or sports – a total and complete emotional connection. She thinks in science. For Amy, there’s nothing better than helping people see the beauty of science as she does. She loves to untangle a complicated subject into its parts, explaining it so that anybody can understand what’s happening. Let her show you her world...
    Amy Law says:

    Happy Birthday Norman! He is such a good dog! And we are so happy that you found a solution to help him stay in pet therapy. 🙂

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Amy. I’m glad too and just hope it won’t be too much for him.

  23. Dale – Boucherville – I love cooking, entertaining, writing, photography, walk/hiking. The best part of blogging is connecting with other bloggers and creating real conversations and relationships and having them feel something from what I offer.
    Dale says:

    Awww… This is such a wonderful post, Elsa. Your love for Norman shines through! What great pictures, too.
    Happy Birthday, Normal! I know you are going to have a fantabulous day! xoxoxo

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks Miss Dale. We will shower this boy with all sorts of love and treats today.

      1. Dale – Boucherville – I love cooking, entertaining, writing, photography, walk/hiking. The best part of blogging is connecting with other bloggers and creating real conversations and relationships and having them feel something from what I offer.
        Dale says:

        I don’t doubt that for a second!

  24. Amy Law – Amy Law is a science geek. She feels about science the way some people feel about music, or art, or sports – a total and complete emotional connection. She thinks in science. For Amy, there’s nothing better than helping people see the beauty of science as she does. She loves to untangle a complicated subject into its parts, explaining it so that anybody can understand what’s happening. Let her show you her world...
    Amy Law says:

    Norman is such a good dog! We do love him in pet therapy, and are so glad you found a way to keep him visiting. Happy Birthday, Norman!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring happiness to all who meet him.

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