04/09/2026
🌟Trying to summarize fifty years of numerous relationships that individuals served by Great River Homes have enjoyed is something like trying to count the numerous stars in the sky on a clear night. Over a series of separate posts, we will sample small slices of individualized relational experiences, starting with the topic of how therapeutic relationships with animals and pets have enriched the lives of individuals over the past fifty years. Future posts will cover topics such as relationships between individuals within a home, family-based relationships, holiday and birthday memories, and relationships with community members.
“Snoopy”, an amiable cat, was an early fixture in the mid-1970’s and beyond. Mary spent literally thousands of hours enjoying Snoopy’s company at the first home opened by Great River Homes at 717 Rustic Lane in 1976. A Huskie named “Jack” became a favorite visiting pet. During neighborhood walks, Kris became Jack’s patient obedience instructor. Jack made George’s day many times by providing the “pull” as George enjoyed a ride on a 4 wheeled bike. While on visits to George’s home, Jack would consistently seek out George in his room, and to George’s delight, calmly snuggle up next to George. But don’t be deceived, Jack had a wild side; when visiting Jeanette, Jack would routinely bound across Jeanette’s bed and, much to Jeanette’s amusement, Jack would use his mouth to toss stuffed animals in the air and catch them. While she never applied for a bear license, Jeanette went on approximately 17,520 bear hunting ventures, which inevitably concluded with laughter and the sighting of a mythical bear. At times, the “bear” would charge and force Jeanette and those with her to flee for their life.
Until next time, please consider sharing some of your memories and help capture fifty years of Great River Homes, Inc. with the link below. 🌟
https://www.greatriverhomes.org/sam/
