More: While the boys have always been our favorite travel companions, our adventures changed drastically in the midst of the pandemic. After returning home from long hospital shifts, the pups would be waiting, eager to see us and ready to explore. Instead of planned vacations, we spent hours walking around our town and local parks, as well as outdoor bbq and blowup pool days. They are our essential workers, providing love, care, and have allowed us to change our perspective and to focus on those small sweet moments with those we love most.