Category: Family fun writing

Life with Emma in the Desert-Holidays Old Friends and New Beginnings

Holidays, Old Friends, and New Beginnings

by Emma the White Dog

We made it through the holiday season, and I have to say — it was a very good one. Christmas Eve day turned out to be especially special for my human, Bill, and for me too.

Some of Dad’s longtime friends from Colorado were visiting Tucson, and we met them for lunch on Christmas Eve. We hadn’t seen each other for several years, so there was a lot to catch up on — stories from the past, what life looks like now, and plenty of laughter in between. I stayed close, listened carefully (dogs are excellent listeners), and enjoyed being right in the middle of it all.

They were curious about my Ask Emma newspaper columns and my website and blog, and I was happy to hear Dad explain how I share a dog’s-eye view of life here in SaddleBrooke. It made my tail wag to know that something that started as a little idea has turned into a way to connect with so many people.

We were also taken such good care of by our server that day. Everything felt easy and unhurried — good food, good company, and the kind of conversation that reminds you how nice it is to reconnect. I posed politely for a photo and made sure to thank our server for helping make the afternoon feel festive and fun.

Emma and our friends, as Emma thanks our server for taking such good care of us.

After that, the holidays slowly settled down, as they tend to do. Decorations came down, routines returned, and things grew a little quieter — which is when I usually find myself thinking.

Sitting on the Rock, Thinking About What Comes Next

Over the holidays, I also spent some time sitting on a big rock near our community center, just watching the world go by. People were walking, golf carts were humming along, and the desert looked calm in that quiet way it gets when things slow down for a moment. I like sitting on rocks. They’re solid. They don’t rush you. They’re good places to think.

Emma on the big rock… thinking.

While I was there, I remembered something a friend had recently told my human, Bill. They said that 2025 was known in the Chinese calendar as the Year of the Snake — a time meant for shedding old layers and preparing for what comes next. I’ll admit it: calendars aren’t really my specialty. I mostly go by mealtimes and walks. But the idea stayed with me, because it felt true.

Last year, it seemed like a lot of us — humans and dogs alike — let go of things. Some people cleared out closets or garages. Some said goodbye to routines that no longer fit. Others had to let go of things they never wanted to lose at all. Dogs notice these changes. We notice when the house feels different, when hearts are heavier, when quiet lasts a little longer than usual. We don’t always understand the reasons, but we understand the feeling.

Whether anyone meant to or not, many of us came through 2025 a little lighter, a little changed, and maybe a little clearer about what matters. And now here we are — 2026 — standing at the beginning of something new.

Humans often talk about New Year’s resolutions, and I’ve noticed they usually sound very serious and a bit stressful. Big promises. Big plans. Dogs don’t really do resolutions. We wake up, stretch, sniff the air, and meet the day as it comes. If yesterday was hard, we try again today. If yesterday was good, we don’t assume tomorrow owes us anything — we just stay open.

Maybe that’s what a new year really needs. Not a long list or a perfect plan, but an open attitude. A willingness to try. A hope for more good days than bad ones, and the patience to accept that both will probably show up. Renewal doesn’t have to be dramatic. Sometimes it’s as simple as paying attention, being kind, or choosing not to carry everything forward just because you always have.

As I sat on my rock, I realized that beginnings don’t always arrive with fireworks or fanfare. Sometimes they arrive quietly — like stillness, reflection, or a small decision to step into the year with curiosity instead of fear.

So as 2026 unfolds, I hope you begin it paw-sitively. Open to what’s new. Gentle with what remains. Ready, when the time is right, to move forward.

With love and wagging optimism,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me?

Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive right in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert — Busy Days, Kind Helpers & Holiday Joy

By Emma the White Dog 🐾

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

It’s a busy season, and I must say… I like it that way. Dad keeps me on the move, and I keep him on schedule. Maybe it’s the holidays that make everything feel more active, or maybe it’s just how we live — but I’ve learned that staying busy, meeting people, and getting things done makes life feel pretty wonderful.

And as always, wherever we go, we meet the nicest people.

A House Call for the Golf Cart

We started things off with a little concern about our golf cart. Dad wanted to be sure everything was running safely, so a very nice fellow came right to our house to check it out. He talked to Dad, patted me hello, and took the time to explain what he was seeing.

Emma with the golf cart technician at home

After a careful look, he gently explained that the cart really needed to go into the shop.

A Sad Ride… and a Happy Return

That was a tough moment for me. One day our cart was being carefully loaded onto a truck to head off for repairs, and I stood there watching, wondering when it would come home.

Emma watching the golf cart being loaded onto the truck

The good news? It didn’t take long at all. Just a few days later, our cart returned — running better than ever and ready for new adventures. I supervised the unloading, of course.

A Helpful Stop at the Hardware Store

Busy days continued when Dad had a little project that sent us to the hardware store. We were fortunate to meet a helpful fellow who listened carefully and came up with just the right solution. Dad was grateful — and so was I.

Emma thanking the helpful hardware store employee

I’ve learned that good ideas often come from kind people who take a moment to help.

Even Busy Dogs Need Rest

Now, as much as I enjoy staying active, even I know when it’s time to slow down. Every busy schedule needs a pause — a moment to rest, relax, and recharge.

Emma resting with her head near her green friend, the Grinch

A little quiet time makes the busy moments even better.

The Season of Good Will

This truly is the season of sharing and good will. One day, while Dad was dropping something into a big red pot outside the grocery store, I spent a moment with a cheerful bell ringer who was helping collect donations for those in need.

: Emma with the bell ringer outside the grocery store

It felt good to be part of something that helps others — especially at this time of year.

Cookies, Friends & a Parade to Remember

One of the highlights of the season was our big night at home before the annual SaddleBrooke Christmas Golf Cart Parade. Friends gathered for cookies, candies, breads, cider, and eggnog. The house was full of laughter, conversation, and holiday cheer.

Emma with friends in front of the Christmas tree

Later, we all settled into the driveway to watch the parade roll by. I had a front-row seat in my stroller — the best spot in the house.

Getting settled for the parade, Emma in her stroller

The carts came by one after another, all decorated with lights and music. Some rolled past slowly, glowing beautifully, while others zoomed by in a blur of colorful lights and holiday sound.

It was magical — and so much fun to share with friends.

A Holiday Goodbye for 2025

As this year comes to a close, this will be my last blog message for 2025. What a year it’s been! I’ve loved sharing our busy, happy, and sometimes surprising life here in the desert with all of you.

Thank you for reading, for smiling along with me, and for being part of my world. I can’t wait to continue this journey in 2026 — who knows what adventures the new year will bring?

Until then, I wish you a very happy holiday season and a joyful, healthy New Year.

With love and wagging optimism,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert

Always Something Going On!

Hi Friends!

Whew…we have been busy again! My human Bill seems to wake up every day thinking of more adventures to keep me entertained. (I’m not complaining — I like being a social desert pup!) But a little extra napping time would be nice. Just saying.

Recently I had my annual visit to my veterinarian. I got a very good report — my heart is strong, my teeth are sparkly, and I’m still adorable (they confirmed it). I really like my vet. She talks to me like I’m the smartest dog around, and I wag extra hard for her.

You know, dogs don’t always love the vet. Some get worried about strange smells and pokes and prods. But seeing the vet is a sign of love — it means humans want us to stay healthy for many more years of walks, cuddles, and kitchen snacks. So I always march in bravely…as long as treats are involved.

Here’s something exciting: my vet’s office is starting a newsletter — and they’re including a link to my website, Life with Emma in the Desert! They told me more readers may soon follow my adventures. Yay! I love making new friends — especially ones with paws. 🐾

After the vet, we headed to the Apple Store because Bill got a new phone. He says he needs it because it has a super camera and he does want it to do justice to me in all the photos he shoots of me. There were so many people, all being helped by friendly tech folks who know how to fix anything with buttons. One nice young man helped Bill set up his phone, and I supervised, of course. Apple Stores are full of bright lights, shiny gadgets…and lots of compliments for a fluffy white dog in a stroller

But our day wasn’t over! My human brother Rick came to visit for Thanksgiving, so we took him out to lunch and then stopped at the car dealer. So many nice people — and everyone wanted to say hello to me. I’m starting to think that maybe I am the real reason for these errands.

Hello December!

Well friends, here we are — December! I can feel the holiday energy all around our neighborhood. Lights twinkle along rooftops, music floats through open doors, and sometimes I even spot a big inflatable snowman waving at me (I give him a polite but cautious side-eye).

Emma is all aglow with the Holidays

Humans celebrate many different holidays during this season — Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s, and others too. From a dog’s perspective, the best part is the feeling these holidays bring: warmth, closeness, kindness, laughter, and the delicious smell of something baking in the kitchen.

Here are a few helpful reminders for a safe and happy holiday season for dogs:

  • Cookies, chocolates, candies, nuts, and fruitcakes are NOT dog treats.
  • Wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons are fun to pounce on — but not to eat.
  • Visitors and parties are exciting, but sometimes dogs need a quiet space to rest.
  • And if you’re baking, roasting, or carving, please remember: dogs are always watching and hoping!

Through all of this, the greatest gift a dog could ever ask for is simply being close to you — a cozy snuggle, a slow walk, or resting our head on your knee.

Thanks for reading — and for being part of my desert adventure pack!

I love sharing life with you. 🐶💛

Got a question for me?

Email me at EmmaTheWhiteDog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click Subscribe so future posts arrive right in your

Life With Emma in the Desert — Busy Days, Nice People & Thanksgiving Wishes

By Emma the White Dog 🐾

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

We’ve been busy again… meeting people, getting things done, and finishing up one more round of our little moving project. Dad says life always feels better when you stay active and have a little fun — and after these last few days, I think he’s absolutely right. Every time we go out, I meet the nicest people… and they’re all so kind to me!

The U-Haul Adventure

To finish our moving project, Dad and I needed another U-Haul trailer.

A very nice lady helped us at U-Haul — she talked to me, smiled at me, and I even posed for a photo with her.

While Dad was loading everything into the trailer, he packed and stacked and wedged things in so tightly I wasn’t sure it would all fit. I kept looking at the pile and thinking, “Hmm… I don’t know about this, Dad.” But he kept loading… and stuffing… and pushing… and before long, the whole trailer was full! I supervised the whole operation, of course.

A Friendly Visitor From the City of Surprise

Just as Dad was tightening the last straps, a City of Surprise inspector stopped by to check on our new air conditioner installation. He said everything looked great, and he and I got along right away. I liked him so much that we took a picture together.

A Stop at the Bank

Earlier that day I also met the bank manager, who knew exactly where to scratch behind my ear. What a nice man! I sat proudly next to him for our photo.

Home Again in SaddleBrooke

Once we got back to SaddleBrooke, Dad unloaded the trailer — and I was his best cheerleader the whole time. I supervised… encouraged… and offered moral support (which is very important, as you know).

Finally, everything was done, and we took a photo with the trailer at home.

It feels wonderful to have all our important things together here in Saddlebrooke again. Now we can relax a bit more, settle in, and enjoy the good life we’re lucky to have.

November Arrives — and So Does Thanksgiving

Here we are in November, and you know what that means… the holidays are coming! And first up is Thanksgiving — a very special day for humans and dogs.

I even spent a little time with my friend Tom Turkey recently. I took him for a ride, now that Toonces has taught me how to drive. Tom has some strong opinions about November, by the way… he doesn’t quite see Thanksgiving the same way the rest of us do!

Emma’s Thanksgiving Message 🦃❤️🐾

Oh, Thanksgiving! Just saying the word makes my tail wag. From a dog’s perspective, it’s one of the most wonderful holidays of all — a day filled with delicious smells, friendly voices, and warm hearts.

Dogs may not understand the history behind it, but we do understand gratitude. We feel it every day — for a soft bed, a gentle pat, a shared walk, or a treat given with love. On Thanksgiving, the feeling fills the house. We can sense our humans slowing down, gathering together, and remembering what matters most.

Of course, we secretly hope for a little taste of turkey (plain, please — no onions, gravy, or stuffing for us!). But mostly, we’re thankful just to be near our people — curled up under the table, watching and listening as laughter and stories flow.

If I could give one Thanksgiving wish from all of us dogs, it would be this: take a moment to look into our eyes and know that we love you completely, without words. You’re our whole world — and that’s something to be thankful for every day.

With love and a grateful heart,

Emma 🐾

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life with Emma in the Desert, enter your email below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life with Emma in the Desert-Fire Fighters Big Bertha and Autumn

Firefighters, Big Bertha, and Fall in the Desert

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

I’d love to share some of my latest adventures with you. One of them began in the middle of the night with a mysterious “chirp… chirp…” sound. Dad said, “Oops, a smoke detector battery must be low.” Luckily, it was one he could reach, so the chirping didn’t last long.

But that sound was our reminder — when one smoke detector needs a new battery, they all probably do. Most of ours are way up on the ceiling, far too high for Dad to reach safely. And between us, I really don’t think he should be climbing ladders anyway!

That’s where our wonderful Golder Ranch Fire Department came to the rescue. Did you know they’ll come to your house and change out smoke detector batteries if you supply the batteries? They sent a whole team of friendly firefighters, and I watched every move they made to be sure the job was done right.

They were so kind and professional, and it made me feel proud and safe. We’re lucky to have such dedicated people in our community who don’t just put out fires — they help keep homes like ours protected. Batteries should be replaced once each year, maybe on a schedule so you do not forget, like every New Years Day or even on your birthday, what better present is there than safety/protection.

A big thank you to all firefighters for your hard work, courage, and the many ways you help keep our neighborhoods safe. 🧯❤️🐾

Meet Big Bertha 🌵

After all the excitement with the smoke alarms, it was time for something new in the yard.

Dad decided to plant something special where a small palm tree used to be. Now we can see the mountains from our front courtyard so much better — and what better way to celebrate than with a desert beauty?

We visited a cactus nursery and found Big Bertha — a cactus that’s not all that big yet, but one day she’ll grow and bloom with large white flowers in the spring. Big Bertha is a type of night-blooming cereus, and when she flowers, it happens at night — the blooms are big, snowy white, and beautifully fragrant.

The gardeners planted Big Bertha in just the right spot. I was right there supervising, of course! I think she’s going to love it here.

Emma’s Autumn Poem 🍂🐾

We’re really into fall here in the desert now — the mornings are cooler, the breezes softer, and everything smells just a little different. I even wrote a poem about it.

Emma’s Autumn Poem
Cooler breezes touch my nose,
Summer’s heat begins to close.
Crunch of leaves beneath my paws,
Pumpkins waiting — I give paws applause! 🎃

Golden scents drift through the air,
Woodsmoke whispers everywhere.
Walks grow longer, mornings bright,
Evenings cozy, soft delight.

Humans smile, they love it too,
Fresh new trails, a sky so blue.
Sniff, explore, then cuddle near,
Fall’s the season dogs hold dear. 🍂🐾

Ask Emma 🐶✨

Question: Grooming and Brushing

Q: Dear Emma,
How often should I comb and brush my dog — and how often should I brush their teeth?
— Caring Owner in SaddleBrooke

A: Dear Caring Owner,

What a thoughtful question! Grooming isn’t just about looks — it’s about health, comfort, and bonding time. For dogs like me (a bichon-poodle mix), daily brushing or combing is best to keep tangles and mats away. For short-haired pups, a few times a week might do just fine. The key is to match the routine to your dog’s coat type — but honestly, we love the attention, so daily is a treat!

And teeth? Oh yes, dental care matters! Ideally, brushing your dog’s teeth every day is best (I know… easier said than done). But even a few times a week can help prevent tartar, gum disease, and bad breath. There are special dental chews — like my favorite Greenies (Yum Yum!) — and toys that help too.

So remember: brush the coat, brush the teeth, share the love — and enjoy all those extra snuggles!

Toothily yours,
Emma

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

You can subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert and have new posts delivered to your inbox by entering your email below and click Subscribe.

Life With Emma in the Desert Driving with Toonces

Driving Lessons with Toonces

Hi Friends — Emma here! 🐾

A while back when my human brother Rick came to town to drive Dad to a medical appointment, I started thinking: Why shouldn’t I be the one driving him? I mean, I go everywhere with Dad anyway. That’s when I remembered Toonces the Driving Cat from the old Saturday Night Live skits. If a cat can drive, surely a smart little dog like me can too!

If you’d like to meet Toonces, just touch the link below to see a video of him behind the wheel. I studied it carefully — after all, a girl needs to prepare for her first driving lesson

.https://youtu.be/5fvsItXYgzk


So one day, Toonces agreed to give me a lesson. It was quite an adventure. He meowed something about “keeping your paws at 10 and 2,” and then… off we went! I sat in the passenger seat, watching how he handled the wheel.

Later, we switched places.

Now, I don’t want to brag (well, maybe just a little), but I think dogs might be better drivers than cats. We’re loyal, focused, and not easily distracted by birds in the sky or squirrels on the sidewalk. Toonces didn’t say anything when I took over, but when we talked about my next lesson, he just said, “Don’t call me… I’ll call you.”

Hmmmmmm. I’m not sure what that means, but I have a feeling he knows I’ve got talent. 🚗🐶

REFLECTIONS ON HALLOWEEN 🎃

Halloween is an interesting time for us pups. Humans dress up in all kinds of costumes — ghosts, witches, superheroes — and they seem to love it. For us dogs, though, it’s a little more… confusing.

Some of us get dressed up too. One year I wore a sparkly pumpkin bandana. Not bad. But some of my dog friends got stuck wearing things with hats, wings, or even shoes. We try to be good sports, but honestly — many of us would rather wear nothing but our fur coats!

The doorbell rings all night, little humans in costumes shout “Trick or Treat!” and the world smells like candy (none of which we can eat). It can be a lot for a pup.

But there are parts we love: long walks in cooler air, pumpkins to sniff, crunchy leaves to romp through, and snuggling close when the night gets spooky. So if you see a pup dressed up this Halloween, give them a little extra smile. We’re trying our best to play along with your funny human traditions.

Wagging tails and happy howls,
🎃 Emma

Ask Emma

Q: Hi Emma… I get so terrified whenever thunder and lightning roll through SaddleBrooke. I shake, pant, and try to hide. Is there something my humans can do to make me more comfortable and help me tolerate storms?
— Question from Suki, your SaddleBrooke neighbor and friend

A: Oh, sweet friend — you are not alone. Many dogs (big and small) feel frightened by the rumbling skies and flashing lights of a summer storm. Thunder can sound like a giant’s footsteps, and lightning can seem scary and strange. But the good news is that your humans can help you feel safer.

Here are a few tricks they might try:

🐾 Safe Space: A cozy, quiet spot like a crate, closet, or bathroom can be a comforting retreat. Add a favorite blanket or toy to make it feel secure.

🐾 Calming Touch: Gentle petting, brushing, or just sitting nearby reminds you that you’re not alone.

🐾 Background Sounds: Soft music, a fan, or TV can help cover up the booms.

🐾 Comfort Clothing: Some dogs like snug wraps or shirts (like a “ThunderShirt”) that feel like a hug.

🐾 Vet Guidance: If storms are extra tough, humans can ask a veterinarian about natural calming aids or medications.

And here’s an extra tip for the humans: staying calm themselves helps us pups know everything is okay.

You’ve got this, Suki! With love, patience, and a safe cuddle spot, stormy nights don’t have to be so scary.

With a wag and a reassuring woof,
🐾 Emma

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!
To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert, enter your email in the box below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life With Emma in the Desert Back Home in AZ

Back Home in Arizona, With Thoughts Near and Far

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

Here we are, back in Arizona after traveling all the way to Minnesota. Life in SaddleBrooke feels comfortable and familiar again. I’ve been enjoying strolls on the golf course paths. Dad caught me hanging out on a golf course and the big rock at the Clubhouse.

While life is back to normal, we do get out and about!

Recently we stopped at REI, where I met some very nice people. A kind fellow gave me a set of REI Co-op stickers. Dad (or maybe I should say my driver!) put one on my side of the golf cart and another on my stroller. I think it looks pretty fun — a little desert dog with big outdoor spirit! 🐶⛰️

We also had some work done at the U-Haul service center on our car’s trailer hitch. I met some friendly people there too, and we took a picture with one of the service guys.

Enlarge to see REI sticker on stroller]

Back at home, we had a huge project — a new air conditioner and furnace were installed. Wow, what a big job! It took all day. There’s a photo of me with Leo, the installer, standing proudly by our new thermostat. He even showed us pictures of his own cute little white dog. 🐾

A More Serious Topic: PTSD

Now I’d like to talk about something more serious — a topic I first mentioned in my Northfield, Minnesota post: PTSD.

While traveling, I met two wonderful people — Colonel Wayne and Dr. Steve. They’ve written books about PTSD and, most importantly, they give those books to veterans and anyone who might be struggling.

Not long ago, I read (with help from Dad, of course) a book about World War II prisoners of war in the South Pacific. It described how many carried invisible scars long after the war ended. PTSD isn’t just about memories — it’s also about how we relate to time. Researchers say it affects our perspective of the past, present, and future all at once.

There’s even something called the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory — 56 questions you can take for free at:

👉 https://www.thetimeparadox.com/zimbardo-time-perspective-inventory/

If you do, you can import your scores for each of the six dimensions of the scale into ChatGPT for analysis, and it will give insights into how you process experiences. It will even offer suggestions for how you can improve how you treat past, present, and future time.

Now, you might wonder: can dogs suffer PTSD too? The answer is yes. Rescued dogs, those abandoned in shelters, or those who’ve faced frightening events can show signs of trauma. We may shake, hide, bark, or freeze when reminded of our past — just like humans reliving difficult memories.

Why does this matter? Because PTSD is real, it’s serious, and it deserves compassion. Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or even a pup who’s been through tough times, recognizing PTSD is the first step toward healing.

Meeting Colonel Wayne and Dr. Steve reminded me that help and hope are always nearby. Books, conversations, and kindness open doors. For dogs, it’s patience, routine, and love. For humans, it’s therapy, support, and understanding friends.

So if you or someone you love has struggled with trauma, please know: you’re not alone. Even a little white dog like me can see how important it is to talk about PTSD and to keep supporting one another.

With love and paws of comfort,

Emma 🌵🐶💖

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert, enter your email in the box below and click subscribe so future posts arrive in your inbox.

Life with Emma in the Desert: Heading to Duluth!

Hi friends — Emma here again! 🐾

We’re all rested, and here we go — back in the car, headed north on I-35 toward Duluth, Minnesota. For those who know Minnesota roads, you probably guessed it: yes, we stopped at Tobies in Hinckley. Dad says their donuts are the best. I’ll pass on those (I’m more of a chicken-treat kind of girl), but Dad sure enjoyed them!

When we rolled into Duluth, I noticed right away how much cooler it was compared to Arizona. This little desert dog thought July in Duluth was paw-fectly comfy. Duluth sits at the very northeastern tip of Minnesota, where the land meets Lake Superior. It feels like the edge of the world, and I loved the crisp air coming off the big lake.

Family, Friends, and Memories

We spent time with family and friends, Beth Ann and Peter. My human mom Joanne grew up in Duluth with her cousin Beth Ann, so there are always funny stories being shared. We also visited the cemetery where my human mom Joanne is buried. Last year a big new fountain was installed near the entrance, and this spring Dad added a beautiful granite bench there. I tried it out myself — cool and smooth, the perfect spot for a thoughtful rest.

Emma on the granite bench by the fountain

Canal Park and Lake Superior

No trip to Duluth is complete without Canal Park! I posed on the lake wall with the harbor lighthouse in the background. That old lighthouse isn’t used for guiding ships anymore, but years ago it lit the way for vessels coming in from the Great Lakes and even the Atlantic through the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Emma on lake wall with lighthouse

And of course, we stopped by the famous Aerial Lift Bridge. When it rises, huge ships pass beneath on their way into the port. Duluth is one of the farthest-inland seaports in the world, and ships from around the globe still come here to load and unload. Pretty amazing for a small dog to stand there and watch!

Emma with the Aerial Lift Bridge

Food and Flowers

After sightseeing, Dad treated himself to Mexican food at Little Angie’s Cantina. Not really for me, but he loved it! Then we strolled through Leif Erikson Park, where the flower gardens brighten the shoreline. The park honors the great Norse explorer, and its hillside paths give some of the best views of Lake Superior.

Emma at Leif Erikson Park with flower

Brighton Beach and the North Shore

Further up the shore we visited Brighton Beach. I posed with the lake behind me — sparkling and endless. Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, and standing on its edge makes you feel small in the best way. The North Shore drive beyond Duluth is famous for rocky cliffs, waterfalls, and little towns full of history.

Emma at Brighton Beach

Central Lakes and Family Time

After Duluth, we headed south to the Central Lakes region where my humans once lived on Pelican Lake near Breezy Point. This part of Minnesota is sprinkled with lakes — Pelican, Gull, Whitefish, Nisswa, and so many more. It’s boating, fishing, and cabin country, and even a dog can sense how special it feels in the summertime.

Wrapping Up the Journey

On our way back to Minneapolis, we had lunch with Dad’s grandson Cole and his wife Payton. Then it was off to our hotel near the airport, right under the flight path! Airplanes soared over us as we looked across toward the Mall of America — the biggest shopping mall in the U.S. (But shopping wasn’t on our list this time.)

Emma with airplane over hotel

The next morning came early — 4 a.m. — and before long I was tucked in my travel case again, snoozing all the way back to Arizona. After all that adventuring, I was one tired pup. When we finally rolled back home and the shuttle driver helped with our bags, I thought of something I’d heard once: there’s no place like home. And it’s true — after so much traveling, nothing feels better than curling up back in my own desert home.

Emma with shuttle driver and bags

Time for a good rest now… until the next adventure!

With love and a wag,

Emma 🌵🐶💖

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert enter your email in the box below and click subscribe so future posts will arrive in your inbox.

✈️ Life with Emma in the Desert: Flying to Minnesota!

Hi friends — Emma here! 🐾

Last time we left off, I was all buckled in on the airplane, ready for takeoff. Well, up we went, and before I knew it, we were flying high in the sky! The Delta flight attendants were so nice — one of them even posed for a picture with me while I was cozy in my travel case. They made sure my human and I were comfortable the whole way. Dogs can’t exactly order snacks and ginger ale, but I can tell you that friendly smiles make any trip better.

Flying can be a big deal for dogs — there are new smells, different noises, and all sorts of people bustling around. I think it helps when your human stays calm and keeps you feeling safe. A favorite blanket, a little water, and a reassuring word or two go a long way. ✈️🐶

“Friendly smiles at 30,000 feet!”

Before long, we landed in Minneapolis. While waiting for our rental car, we met a nice fellow named Will. My human’s name is Bill, so we had a little laugh about that. I stayed in my travel case, but I could tell Will was a dog person.

Once we had the car, my human pulled out a secret weapon — a flattened cardboard box he’d packed in his suitcase! In just a few minutes, it was transformed into my travel car seat, perched right on the console so I could ride shotgun like I do at home in Arizona. Best. Idea. Ever.

Riding shotgun, Minnesota-style!”

We headed to Northfield, Minnesota. Dad told me I was born not far from here and joined him and my mom Joanne when I was just nine weeks old. I wonder what I was like as a tiny puppy… maybe a bit wobbly, maybe a little shy, but probably very, very cute. I can imagine discovering everything for the first time — new smells, new sounds, new toys, and my very first bed in my forever home. Life as a puppy is full of “firsts” — first treats, first walks, first time figuring out that stairs are not scary after all. Looking back, I think I hit the jackpot finding my family so early. 🐾💖

Then came one of the highlights of the trip — Minnesota grass! Ohhh, the soft, cool, green grass here is something else. I couldn’t resist rolling in it, paws in the air, tail wagging like crazy. If you’ve never seen a happy dog in perfect grass… well, you’re missing out. 🌱💚

Click to see VIDEO: “Minnesota grass is the best!”

We got to see family and friends, too. There was Chrystine (my human’s daughter — so I guess that makes her my human sister?) and Joyce, my human’s sister (my human aunt?). We also saw my human’s golfing buddies, Jim Karl and Brad. There was a lot of talking, laughing, and walking — especially across the beautiful campuses of St. Olaf College and Carleton College.

Speaking of walking — I spotted a squirrel on one of those walks and took off after it. It ran up a tree faster than you can say “peanut butter biscuit.” Dogs and squirrels have a long history — they zig, we zag, they chatter from the branches, we stare up and dream of the day we might catch one. It’s never happened yet, but the chase is half the fun. 🐿️

“Almost had him!”

At the soccer fields, we met Steve and Wayne. They’ve written three books about PTSD and veterans, which they give to anyone who might need or want to read about it. They even posed for a photo with me! My human has talked to me about PTSD since reading a book about POWs in the South Pacific during World War II. It’s important — even dogs can experience it — so I’d like to share more about that in a future post when I have more time.

“Talking about something important.

Before we left Northfield, we visited the Cannon River. It winds gracefully through town, with scenic walks both above and below the dam. In downtown Northfield, you can stroll along the river’s edge and watch the water sparkle in the sunlight. Ducks paddle in the calmer stretches, and the sound of the rushing water near the dam makes for the perfect background music to a summer walk. I posed for a photo by the river, just to prove I was soaking in the scenery.

“Taking in the view.”

Busy traveling, aren’t we? But we still make time for our afternoon siestas. Here’s a photo of me on the hotel bed, ready for a nice nap before the next adventure.

“Siesta time before the next adventure.”

And that’s where we’ll pause for now… because next up, we’re off to Duluth, Minnesota. But that’s a story for another day. For now — siesta time. 💤

Until next time,
Emma 🌵🐶💖

📬 Got a question for me? Email me at Emmathewhitedog@gmail.com and I might answer it in a future post!

To subscribe to Life With Emma in the Desert just enter your email below and click subscribe and new posts will appear in your inbox.