Hank’s Happenings: Snowflakes, Snuggles, and Support
Hi friends,
It’s Hank here, your four-legged emotional support specialist and full-time good boy. Winter has officially taken over Minnesota, and I have big feelings about it all. Snowflakes on my nose, crunchy snow under my paws, and the very best part, warm and cozy snuggles with my favorite humans at Gilda’s Club Minnesota.
Let me tell you a little secret. As much as I love rolling on my back in fresh snow and wiggling around until my fur is full of tiny snowballs, I love what comes next even more. Coming inside to the warmth of our clubhouse, shaking off the chill, and curling up near people who are doing some of the bravest work there is. You all show up for one another in every season, and that is my favorite kind of warmth.
Winter can be a hard time for a lot of us. The days are shorter, the air is colder, and sometimes it can feel a little heavier out there. But when I strut through the doors of Gilda’s Club, I feel that familiar buzz of connection. I hear laughter during programs, quiet conversations in the corners, and I see hugs that don’t need many words. From where I sit, it looks a lot like courage wrapped in cozy sweaters.
Between my important duties of greeting members, offering unconditional listening with my floppy ears, and accepting belly rubs as payment, I make sure to sneak in a little winter joy too. A quick roll in the snow before work. A slow stroll past frosty trees. A well-earned nap after a big day of emotional support. I take my self-care very seriously.
What I want you to know most is this. Whether you are trudging through a tough winter day or soaking up a moment of comfort at the Club, you do not face it alone. This community shows up with warmth, kindness, and care that no winter chill can touch. And if you ever need an extra dose of comfort, my tail is always ready to wag you hello.
Hank’s Homework:
Before I curl up for my next snow day nap, I have a little homework for you. Your mission is to create one cozy moment each day this week and to find one small way to be kind to yourself. Maybe that means wrapping up in your favorite blanket, sipping something warm, calling someone who makes you feel seen, stepping outside for a few slow, deep breaths, or giving yourself permission to rest. And if you feel up to it, share that moment of comfort with someone else too. Community feels strongest when we care for ourselves and one another.
Now I will be right here, practicing my own homework with a snow-day nap and a well-earned cuddle or two. Until next time, friends. Keep finding those little moments of warmth, and I will keep showing up with open paws and a wagging tail.
Pawsitively yours,
Hank
