People don’t have to worry about stepping on Edison when he’s on the floor. If there is a good spot nearby, I give Edison the command “under” so he can be nicely tucked out of the way. In this photo he is under the sink in the restroom at Boston’s South Station. #day91of365

Spring is here! It was such a nice afternoon at an outdoor event, and I couldn’t resist letting this little boy “say hello.” Edison loves young children who feel safe and carefree around him. Interactions like this are so fun to watch! #day92of365

So professional with his vest on but so silly when it is off. How can that be comfortable?! #day93of365

At the end of client training all NEADS teams have to take a certification test offered though Assistance Dogs International. This test ensures that the dog and client can safely be out in public and act in a appropriate manner. Edison and I had to renew our certification about two years ago. One of the many portions of the test was for him to remain calm and in a stay position around loud objects. He and I passed with flying colors! #day94of365

A snippet of one of the first days during training with Edison at the NEADS campus in Massachusetts. I can feel the joy radiate through the screen and it brings me right back to that moment. I remember it like it was yesterday! Oh, how great it was. The feelings have only grown stronger as time has passed. #day95of365

Edison loves his toys. Most of the time when we are home, he is either playing or carrying a toy in his mouth. I absolutely love that he is always checking in to see if I need anything, and, if I do, at any moment he will drop his toy and come right to me. The way he can toggle between work and play always amazes me! #day96of365

We stick together. Edison is my friend for life! After a long day, I went to lie down and snuggle with him and ended up falling asleep! #day97of365

When I’m out at a restaurant, Edison lies quietly under the table. During his training he was taken to many different places to ensure that he’s comfortable with the various environments that he he would be going to when he was matched. I’d say he looks pretty relaxed! #day98of365

When I’m out at a restaurant, Edison lies quietly under the table. During his training he was taken to many different places to ensure that he’s comfortable with the various environments that he he would be going to when he was matched. I’d say he looks pretty relaxed! #day98of365

In celebration of the 100th day of my photo series, this photo is made up of the photos that have been used over the past 100 days. Zoom in to see the individual photos. Thank you for following along with me on this 365 day journey, there’s so much more to come! #day100of365

I don’t have a driver’s license, so Edison and I take an Uber of Lyft pretty much daily. Today’s ride was great! It’s a welcome reprieve when there’s no fuss about us in the car. Having a disability and a Service Dog might be a lot to present the driver with at one time, but the drivers who take it all in stride are definitely much appreciated and make my day so much easier. #day101of365

As it’s said, “practice makes perfect,” and I’m constantly working with him to keep his training sharp. Here we are working on some commands from a distance (of course, always in a safe, enclosed space and with me close by). I gave him the command “down, stay” and went to get something. When he is given that command he is not to move until I come back to release him. Good job, buddy! #day102of365

This was taken when I was at NEADS for my initial intensive training with Edison. I was in my glory and he was getting some “free time!” I took his working gear off, and we enjoyed some ball-throwing time together. Each day he gets at least 30 minutes of time “off the clock.” #day103of365

Check this out! A friend sent this to me while they were at the Santa Monica Farmers Market. They know it’s my absolute pet peeve. The sign says it all! So great to see that at least California recognizes the difference. #day104of365

Edison and I visited New Paltz, NY over the weekend. I attended SUNY New Paltz for many years, so I am fond of the town. #day105of365