15th Birthday Celebration for “Bergen The Super Dog” Deep in the Patagonian Forest
March 15th, 2010 Posted in day to day, lifestyle, sportsWritten by Shanie
Although he can’t — technically speaking — read this, I want to wish our canine son, Bergen, a happy happy 15th Birthday. Today is the big day. But it really has been a week long celebration of extra belly scratches, massages and meat treats. And of course the special hiking trip.
This year I decided to take Suerte, Dulce and Bergen up Laguna Negra for the weekend (Jamie, away on travel, was missed much during the festivities). Though it is a hike we do often, as the trailhead is near the house, we had really only covered a small portion of its 5 hour travel to the manned-hut that it links to.
It was a fabulous decision…
The perfect elevation gain for Bergen and mom with a heavy pack, the four of us took our time and smelled the roses, per say.
This wasn’t a hiking trip for speed…this was one of full appreciation and awareness of how special the moment was. I mean seriously, I was loving the fact that my 15 year old boy was once again whipping my butt on a hiking trip.
Not to mention the beautiful moments in time that will be forever imprinted on my memory…
The azure blue sky setting the back drop for robust mountains of granite exploding out of the thick, lush Patagonian forest.
Healthy, vibrant bamboo springing towards the sky like Mother Nature’s elegant fingers framing the single track trails offering unforgettably great hiking.
The sunlight enhancing Bergen’s maroon highlights that have taken to his lovely coat of fur with age.
The moments of “I’m the boss” body language shown by a hip check to a young sister getting out of line, verbal cues such as a slight growl from a grumpy old guy telling his siblings it’s quite time, or letting the kids take the lead during Hiking Class…each so incredible.
But what I really hope to never forget is the actual moments of cruising…
So…to the Super Dog…Happy Happy Birthday…we all loved celebrating with you…
Whether it’s your special way of bringing out the best in all of us…
or your gracious handing over of the torch and giving Dulce the prestige of carrying your pack…
or the reminder to take in our surroundings, give it a sniff, and to really appreciate it…
your charisma, charm and studliness are oh-so-appreciated.
7 Responses to “15th Birthday Celebration for “Bergen The Super Dog” Deep in the Patagonian Forest”
By Leslie Moran on Mar 15, 2010
Happy Birthday Bergen!
It’s been my pleasure in helping your Mom and Dad ensure your health and well-being.
In Love, Light and healing to you all!
By jamie on Mar 15, 2010
As the proud father currently half way across the world, I want to thank you for the wonderful post. It brought tears of joy to my eyes.
I miss you all very much. Glad it was a great celebration.
Les amo, Jamie
By susan on Mar 16, 2010
this is so wonderful thanks for posting these great picts and video – watery eyes here too – happy birthday bergen!!
best wishes for a great year and many more to come.
love and delight from all of us here in austin, tx
By Shanie Matthews on Mar 16, 2010
He sends you all wet kisses…He’s also wondering when he is going to get to start modeling (:
By Mariana on Mar 17, 2010
I don’t know you guys but… This is sooo sweet. Happy Birthday Bergen! Watery eyes here too – have to go home now and hug my pooch!!
By Patagonia on Mar 17, 2010
Gracias Mariana for such kind words.
Besos,
Shanie
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