Valentine’s Day two years ago was the last Valentine’s Day that she received chocolate. But that chocolate meant little because she also got treated in a way that no one should ever be treated. And she left shortly thereafter.

Last Valentine’s Day she spent alone, curled up in a sleeping bag for warmth against the cold. And there was no chocolate.

She’s an optimist. And she said it sounds worse than it was. Because at least the sleeping bag made her feel hugged. And it didn’t punch her in the face. But she was homeless, and there was no chocolate in the budget.

Anyone meeting her now wouldn’t know any of this. Although they might wonder about the slight bruise around her eye that seems to not go away, a reminder of an eye blackened too many times. But aside from that and the fact that she lived under the stars, she said she was happy. Happy, but alone. And then she met Bud.

She met him on a blind date. Sparks flew. She fell in love again. Just like that. Just that quick. And that’s where this story is going.

She was fearful. She was hopeful. But he made her feel good. He was older. A little bit rumpled. A little bit gray. But he was kind. He was quiet. He was patient. And even though she did not know him well she wanted to give it a try. Because she felt like this guy needed her just as much as she needed him.

And she wanted her heart to remember what it was like to feel love again.

So on this Valentine’s Day she’s in love again. But after buying gifts for Bud her budget did not allow any chocolate for herself. But she said that was ok because she really doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth. She said she just liked the idea of a little bit of something sweet to remind her of love.

But she already knew Bud well enough to know he wasn’t going to think about that. That wasn’t his style. She said that was ok though, because she’d rather shop for him. And shop she did.

Not just one gift for Bud. Not just two gifts. But three gifts for Bud. Treats, she called them. Because Bud loved treats. This whole time Bud had been standing right there, but he was completely silent.

But the moment he heard “treats” he wagged his tail like a helicopter. Three different kinds of dog treats, that is. Three. Different. Kinds. Not the cheap treats. The really good ones.

But no chocolate for Bud’s girl? That’s not right. And that’s where you come in.

Because The Pongo Fund has several kind and generous friends that donate for our Homeless Fund. A fund set up to help people and their pets that temporarily live on the streets.

People and pets that face some of life’s biggest obstacles but still manage to live with a joie de vivre.  And thanks to you, they get to enjoy a few simple things along the way. Like the things you and I take for granted…a new toothbrush, toothpaste, socks, hand soap, shampoo, deodorant and other personal items.

Last week and last month during the bitter cold it was blankets and gloves and hats and sleeping bags. And now it was a little bit of dark chocolate. With orange. And a card with a little smiling bear hugging a heart that on the inside said “consider yourself hugged!”

For Bud there were two different coats, a leash, harness and collar, a brush, some natural spray conditioner and toothbrush and toothpaste. And great food too. Because this man deserves to be pampered.

We weren’t there when this romantic couple opened their gifts. Because as you read this they are on the road to a new place. With a new job and safe shelter waiting.

This Valentine’s Day please join all of us at The Pongo Fund in celebrating a moment of love. Because we all deserve that.

And if the mood strikes you, please consider making a Valentine’s Day contribution to our Homeless Fund. Please visit our website www.thepongofund.org for donation details and put Homeless Fund in the comments section. Feel free to add Sealed With A Kiss, too.

Being there on Valentine’s Day for a woman whose heart has healed. Being there too for her wonderful boyfriend named Bud. Giving love and hope to those who need it. And this is why we Pongo.

Wishing you always peace, love and kibble.  From all of us at The Pongo Fund.