What do you get when you mix two dogs, four adults, one adorable toddler, a pool, and a whole lot of snacks? Apparently, one of the best staycations we’ve ever had.Recently, we opened our home to a family I had never met in person before. Yep—strangers. I know, sounds wild. Normally, I’d be like, “Absolutely not, what if they’re serial killers?” But Troy (my husband) had met them before, and I had connected with them online over the last few years. So, I said yes and thought what’s the worst (or best) that could happen?!A Bond That Started with DogsThey brought their 2.5-year-old daughter, Jane, who is the actual definition of precious, and their amazing dog, Wally. From the moment they arrived, it felt like we had known each other for years. The conversations flowed, the laughs were easy, and the dogs? Instant besties. Wally and our boy Meatball clicked immediately. Whatever one was doing, the other was right there: dipping in the pool, snacking, napping, and probably planning some kind of mild backyard chaos. Watching them was pure joy and made my heart incredibly happy.Toddlers + Dogs = Instant Heart MeltThere’s just something about watching a toddler bond with a dog that makes your heart explode. Jane was so sweet with Meatball (and our kitties too). Every morning, she said “Good morning, Meatball! Good morning, Wally!” It was the cutest thing ever. She shared her snacks and was so gentle with Meatball. It’s moments like this that remind you how kind the world can be, especially when seen through a child’s eyes.Living in the MomentThe weather was perfect the entire time they were here. We soaked up the sun, hung out in the pool, and spent hours talking about life. We showed them a bit of Omaha including melting at a College World Series game, shared food from a few of our favorite spots: Mexican food from El Muchacho Alegre, sushi from Ahi Sushi, and Indian food from Kinaara. If you haven’t checked out these spots, you’re missing out! But the real magic happened back at home: laughing, connecting, and being fully present with people and pups who felt like lifelong friends.The Magic of Saying YesYou can meet hundreds and even thousands of people in your life and never really feel a connection. And then suddenly, you meet someone new, and it just clicks. That’s what happened here. What started as a staycation turned into a soul-filling reminder that sometimes the best adventures aren’t completely planned. They’re found in quiet moments, shared snacks, wagging tails, and open hearts.So, What’s the Point?Say yes.Open your door.Let the dogs play.Let the toddler share her snacks.Invite new people in.Trust your gut—and your husband (sometimes 😅).You never know when strangers will become family. We miss them already and something tells me Jane probably just misses Meatball. 😂Until the next adventure (Milwaukee, we’re coming for ya), we’ll be soaking in the memories and feeling really, really grateful.Have any must-visit dog-friendly spots in Milwaukee? Drop your recs because we’re ready for round two. 🐶✈️With love & pawsitivity,Susie Cogswell, Cogs Dogs Mom
