Wordy Wednesday ~ October 7, 2026

~ Tails Around the Ranch

Surprise…last week I didn’t post when I normally do so this week I thought I’d post when I usually don’t. Confused? Don’t be. Today is a special day that merits a post.

Today is my favorite Knucklehead’s heavenly birthday. October 7, 2005, the world was graced with the presence of a truly sweet boy. Happy heavenly birthday, Sam. Here are a few of my favorite pics of this special boy. Hope you’re bouncing around in heaven like the pogo stick you were when you were here on earth.

Wishing you a very happy heavenly 21st birthday. Love you to the moon, buddy and miss you every day.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

 

54 thoughts on “Wordy Wednesday ~ October 7, 2026”

    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, Bruce. He truly was universally loved by so many.

      Reply

  2. Ahh, Happy Heavenly Day, sweet one. They give so much and it really leaves a hole in the heart. He probably is climbing big mountains and running in green grass with my Mr. Murray. At least I hope so.

    Reply
    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. Sam was one of the most amazing pet therapy dogs I’ve ever seen. Everyone loved him. He’s probably showing your Mr. Murray how to be a goofball pogo stick.

      Reply
    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, Ellen. I had a hard time deciding which ones best exemplified his special personality.

      Reply
  4. 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:

    What a sweet remembrance.

    Reply
    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. He was such a sweetheart therapy dog. Everyone loved him.

      Reply
  5. 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:)
    Dalton,Benji aka Meezer’s Mews & Terrieristical Woofs says:

    Happy Heavenly BIrthday Sam!

    Reply
    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. I can’t believe he’d be 21 any more than he’s been gone for 6 years! Still miss that Knucklehead.

      Reply
  6. John W. Howell – South Texas Gulf Coast – I have been working in business for over forty years and now have the time to work in special areas of interest. My passion has always been to create compelling stories of fiction. I have authored six novels and am working on my Seventh. The first novel is still in manuscript form and being utilized as a door stop in the laundry room. The second is a contemporary fiction novel of 89,000 words and is complete and I am currently seeking a publisher. I also write poetry but have not had the guts to share any with anyone. The one time I read a piece to a person their only comment was, “it doesn’t rhyme.” I will continue to write and hopefully my blog, Fiction Favorites at www.johnwhowell.com will provide some entertainment and an interesting thought or two. I live in the Austin area with my wife Molly and an assortment of loving pets.
    John W. Howell says:

    Happy Heavenly Birthday, Sam. I think we all miss you. That photo of you and your Mom is a favorite.

    Reply
    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, John. It’s hard to wrap my head around the fact that he’s been gone for 6 years.

      When that photo was taken I knew he’d be a great therapy dog and he far surpassed my expectations. He used to do that same pose with so many people.

      Reply
    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, Lisa. He was truly special.

      Reply
  8. 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:

    Happy Heavenly Birthday, big buddy!

    Sloppy kisses,
    Delilah

    Reply
    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, Delilah. He was the sweetest goofball ever and an exceptional therapy dog.

      Reply
    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. Your kind wishes mean a lot to me.

      Reply
  10. 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:

    Ahhh Sam… you were a beautiful boy and we all miss you!

    Reply
    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, Dale. He was truly something special and also the best therapy dog ever. Everyone loved him.

      Reply
      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:

        Impossible not to.

        Reply
        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:

          🧡

          Reply
    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. I think so too!

      Reply
    2. 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, Eliza. He really was!

      Reply

  12. Such sweet photos Monika and happy heavenly birthday to your amazing Sam ✨️💖✨️ xxx

    Reply
    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 so much, Xenia. He was such a special dog and is missed every day.

      Reply

  13. ♪♫Happy Birthday to you,♪♫
    ♪♫Happy Birthday to you,♪♫
    ♪♫Happy Birthday Dear Angel Sam,♪♫
    ♪♫Happy Birthday to you.♪♫

    Thank you for joining the Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop.

    Have a fabulous Wordless Wednesday. Love and hugs to you and lots of scritches to handsome Wilson. ♥

    Reply
    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, Sandee. We are so grateful to have digitally met you as you always manage to make us smile, no matter what.

      Reply

  14. Happy Heavenly BD Yosemite Sam. You were one of the first pups I met 12 years ago when I started Kali’s blog. You were and remain one special and handsome boy! I’m sure the biscuits are plentiful on the other side of the bridge but even so, have an extra one from me on your special day.

    Reply
    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, Mike. Yes, I remember seeing you on Colin’s blog and loved the story of Kali. Your friendship over the years has meant so much to me.

      Reply
        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 touch my heart, Michael. Thanks so much. And likewise, you and your Golden Girls will always be considered part of our Ranch pack.

          Reply

  15. Ah Sammy. Yosemite Sam. What a pup. I remember all the tales (tails) so well and he was the poocharoo that brought me to being a faithful follower of you, Monika. One of a kind. Bittersweet thoughts. Why don’t dogs live longer? I hope there’s doggie cake in doggie heaven. ❤

    Reply
    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:

      Awww, you’re too kind. I remember those early days when Max was your boy. Those were some very halcyon days. You always manage to get a smile out of me and I cherish our connection. I ask myself that same question all the time. No doubt the King of Knuckleheads is bouncing around like a pogo stick just waiting to the birthday cake to se served. With his busy nose, I’m sure he smelled it early this morning. Hugs and tail wiggles, my friend.

      Reply
  16. 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:

    What a gorgeous boy he was……I bet he looks even more adorable with his halo! They leave us with memories that we love to review over and over and forever. Love the photo of the two of you. Teddy has filled the hole in our hearts that Sammy left but memories of our Angel Sam are FOREVER. Sending you a hug – a BIG one!

    Love, Pam

    Reply
    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. His halo was always a bit tilted but he was the sweetest dog ever. He is still loved and missed very much.

      Reply

  18. We never forget those we have lost. Every one of them was so special in their own way. Hugs!

    Reply
    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. It’s so true. We remember them from deep within our hearts as if they were still with us.

      Reply
  19. Julia – I am a retired software solutions architect. I have been married to my husband, Bruce, for over forty years. We went full-time RVing for 3.5 years and saw much of the United States. After deciding to stop RVing, we bought a ranch house halfway up a hill on five acres. After Bruce and I talked about names for our five acres, we settled on Blackberry Homestead as a homage to the wild blackberries on the hill. We are working on creating our homestead. I love cooking and enjoy sharing recipes. I am also an artist, and I’ll share my current projects. Gardening and reading are my favorite hobbies.
    Julia says:

    Hugs.

    Reply
    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, Julia.

      Reply

  20. Six years, wow. Sam was truly a very, very special boy. I know how hard it is on these special days that we never forget. May all the good memories stay with you.

    Reply
    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. We all experience it at one time or another. Especially those special pets that share some very intense and special memories. I’m sure you have your own moments recalling them.

      Reply
  21. easyweimaraner – brittany – Weimaraner /Braque de Weimar, born in 2009, male & fabulous From: Britanny / France Likes: Plushtoy-Shredding, Spikebones,long distance Walks, everyday a Gift, Chicken, Shoes, Underwear, my squeekie Pig & my whole Life Dislikes: Water, Cats, Beaf, Cats, cleaning my Ears, Cats, the Vet, Cats, Snow & CATS! Profession: Student of psychological War-technics & Terrorism, after my Masterdegree i become to rule the world or maybe to be the owner of toys r us. actually i'm not sure... Status: Single Pets: Hell, NO! i prefer a petfree home. but owner of two slaves for my comfy Misc.: Greencardowner for Masterbed, Master of Beggin, Prince of Thiefs We decided to leave Easy's datas as they were... although we lost him in november 2016, he is still with us.... and his little brothers Phenny and Nelly promised to write on not as Easy the weim, but as easy Weimaraner... About us: Mr. Phoenix, born 9/9/2016 a virgo and always clever&smart...Neilson, born 7/28/2017 a leo who thinks he is clever&smart...
    easyweimaraner says:

    happy birthday in heaven… our hero… and I always love poodles…

    Reply
    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. I totally love the breed too and have been toying with getting another one.

      Reply
  22. Dan Antion – Connecticut - USA – Retired - Husband, father, author of the Dreamer’s Alliance Series. When I’m not writing, I might be in my woodshop, working around the house or walking around with a camera. I might be having a beer with friends. You can find me on my blog at NoFacilities.com and on Amazon.
    Dan Antion says:

    What a cutie! I love that first photo, with him wearing the shirt. They stay in your heart forever.

    Reply
    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, Dan. That photo of the “Dogtor” was used on his business cards that were handed out to staff, patients and hospital visitors. He was truly something special and continues to occupy a large slice of real estate in my heart.

      Reply
      1. Dan Antion – Connecticut - USA – Retired - Husband, father, author of the Dreamer’s Alliance Series. When I’m not writing, I might be in my woodshop, working around the house or walking around with a camera. I might be having a beer with friends. You can find me on my blog at NoFacilities.com and on Amazon.
        Dan Antion says:

        Sounds like he brought joy to a lot of people. ❤️

        Reply
        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:

          He really did. Even years after he retired from therapy work, I run into someone that mentions him and how his presence made them feel special.

          Reply

  23. Ah, what a beautiful boy Knucklehead is. Happy Heavenly Birthday, sweet boy. My boy Jack was a Fall baby too. He was just weaned when we got him & I was 11. My new husband was a cat man, so Jack stayed with Dad as husband and I left right after marriage.

    Reply
    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. Sam was a real of a kind boy and one who was beyond sweet. He was a beloved companion and an exceptional therapy dog. Everyone who met him fell in love with him.

      Reply
  24. 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:

    We miss him too! Seems like just yesterday he was bouncing around.

    Reply
    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:

      It does, hard to believe he’s been gone for 6 years. I really miss that boy.

      Reply

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