Growing up in the countryside with my mom, dad, and sister was a special chapter of my life. My dad was passionate about field trials with his beagles, competitive events that tested a dog’s hunting instincts and skills. These trials simulated real hunts, with the dogs tracking birds and animals like rabbits, pheasants, and partridges.
Our dog, Mountain Rocket, was a standout. He won trophies, and I remember a trip to Vermont for an event where we stayed overnight. The area was breathtakingly beautiful, and those memories have stayed with me. My love for nature blossomed during those years.
One of my favorite memories is going to the Beagles Club with my dad. We’d walk the trails while letting our dogs train in the field. They didn’t hunt to harm; they simply tracked rabbits, always returning excited and eager. When the dogs came back from their playful pursuits, we couldn’t help but laugh. It was pure joy, a time filled with fun and connection.
Animals were a constant presence in my childhood. Our home was a lively menagerie—I cared for goldfish, mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, birds, turtles, rabbits, cats, and, of course, many dogs. Over 40 years later, my love for animals and nature remains as strong as ever.
Even now, these connections serve as grounding techniques that help me navigate both the good times and life’s challenges. Nature and the companionship of animals have always brought me peace, reminding me of simpler times and the beauty of life’s small moments.
