Linda Simmonds from Malvern, Arkansas has been one of the most influential people in my life.  I've never met her, have only talked to her a handful of times on the phone, and yet, my life has never been more full of love and purpose than it is today because of her.    

Two years ago, I saw the most precious dog face on the internet I have ever seen.  That face just spoke to me.  I was obsessed with him.  His name was Molson and he was a rescued golden retriever living in Arkansas.  Given the fact I lived in Maine, I was pretty intimidated by the idea of adopting a dog I had never seen, but I felt compelled to take the next step, so I filled out an application and went through the approval process.  When it finally came time to pick up the phone and make the call to Molson's Foster Mom, Linda, I could barely contain my excitement, my nerves, curiosity and downright fear.  What was I doing thinking about adopting a dog sight unseen??  
I will never forget her first words, "Molson?  He's lying down right at my feet and just has the sweetest face."  I knew right then, it was a match made in heaven.   Of course, after she graciously answered all of my questions, I thanked her, got off the phone and immediately panicked.  Poor Linda, I continued to call her for reassurance and she patiently quelled my fears and listened to my ruminations.  When the big day finally came and Molson arrived, he stepped off the transport and my life has never been more complete.  He was indeed the dog Linda said he was and fills the hole in my heart that my previous dog, Bailey, left when he passed away.   

And that was only the beginning of my new life because of Foster Mom Linda.  When friends of mine lost their goldens, they came to me asking for help in rescuing a golden retriever from the South.  Who did I turn to?  Foster Mom Linda, of course!  She helped me find just the right dog for my friends at MAGRR where I now am an Adoption Coordinator for New England.  I LOVE what I do for MAGRR and honestly feel I have finally met my true calling....my life today is indeed full of love and purpose.