“Until one has love an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” — Anatole France

Hands down the greatest joy in my life and during this trip is experiencing it with Franklin. This little guy has taught me so much about joy, unconditional love, strength and resilience. He is the light of my life and the best dog I could have ever hoped for.

Franklin has multiple medical issues stemming from his eye injury (cause is unknown as he was brought to the shelter as a stray & already injured) including breathing problems, one eye and a cracked skull, but he doesn't let any of that crap hold him back. He goes on every crazy hike with me and follows me around (albeit begrudgingly at times) when I pull over to the side of the road AGAIN to snap a random photo.

He truly is the embodiment of what it means to be alive and live life every moment to the fullest.

I've been dealing with multiple personal issues in my life and he is there for me every step of the way, reminding me that no matter what happens you can still live and love life. Everything comes, and everything goes. What matters is how you react to it and this guy doesn't let anything affect him.

Thank you for going on this journey of life with me, Franklin, and this quite literal journey across the country. Thank you for dealing with my crazy hikes, forest walks, waterfall swims, countless photo shoots, loud singing in the car and solo cries on our drives when I need to get something out. I'm so glad we found each other five years ago at the @austinpetsalive animal shelter in Austin.

Animals truly are perfect therapy companions to help you heal, provide comfort and joy to those who need it. They also teach you the cycle of life. How life is precious. Animals come to this earth, they are a blessing to us, we connect with them, we bond with them, and most of the time, they leave this earth before we do. And all we are left with are the memories, experiences, and lessons they left with us on this earth.

I’ve been around animals my entire life, and I’m so glad I was raised in an environment close to nature, surrounded by mountains, trees, and all kinds of wildlife. It truly made me appreciate, respect, and learn from the nature around me, wherever I am.