Hi there, neighbors! I’m Mowgli—five years old, proud Golden Retriever, and full-time good boy (most of the time). Around the house they call me “Mowgs,” “Doughger,” or “Budderz,” which, if you ask me, is very accurate. My little nephew is Maverick—he’s just five months old, and let me tell you, he is all puppy. He goes by “Mav,” “Squeaky Boy,” and occasionally “No!” I like to think I’m the calm, wise one, but Mav keeps life interesting. I’m known for my gentle nature, my loyalty, and my ability to sniff out snacks like a professional. Mav’s talent? Causing a scene and then winning everyone over with his face. My biggest fear is being left out of anything, while Mav claims he fears nothing—though he’s still suspicious of his own reflection.

We both have very important jobs working at Song Mountain. You might’ve seen us there, trotting through the lodge like we own the place. Our favorite part of the day is making our rounds—sniffing out any treats that may have “accidentally” fallen on the floor, greeting every person like they’re our best friend, and checking in with our regulars. I take my job seriously, offering calm tail wags and polite hellos. Maverick? He barrels in like a snowstorm, sliding across the floor and kissing anyone within reach. People laugh, and honestly, that’s part of the job too.

I remember when I first met my human—I knew right away she was mine. Life was peaceful, predictable, and full of adventures. Then one day, she brought home Maverick. He was tiny, and completely unaware of personal space. At first, I wasn’t sure what to think, but he followed me everywhere, copying everything I did. Before long, I realized he wasn’t just a little nephew —he was my best friend. Now we’re a team. At the mountain, we’ve got friends like Leon, Mr. Peter’s golden who thinks he runs the place, and Otto who always barks at me. Speaking of trouble… there was the time Maverick tried to sneak an entire sandwich from a table. I supervised, of course. Someone has to.

At the end of every day, when the snow settles and the lodge quiets down, we head home together, tired and happy. What we’re most grateful for is our Momma—the one who brought us together, The one who takes us to work, and who loves us no matter how many crumbs we track in. Being part of this family means we always belong, always have a purpose, and always have each other. And really, that’s the best job in the world.