FREE HUGS HERE!
In the midst of everything else -- the frustration, the anger, the arguing and despair -- we must remember that we're not alone. We are a community, and there shall be hugs!!!
EDIT TO ADD: IT'S A HUG-A-THON!!! Share your favorite hug pics or any other warm fuzzies. Speaking of warm fuzzies, don't forget to check out SalmonChantedEvening's LOLcats from today!
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for you, RKP5637!
Very nice, PoliticAverse!
for you!
I linked to SCE's LOLcats' thread for even more warm fuzzies:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/1018278321
Thanks, and a for you, Scuba!
You know what makes my heart melt......
Goldies!!!!
a couple of weeks ago. She claims it was one of the most gratifying experiences she has ever had.
Really, hugs -- virtual, real life, it doesn't matter to me -- make me feel so much better about life.
I may have some t-shirts made simply saying FREE HUGS and wear them every single day. 
to you, babylonsister!
The Golden Retriever puppies were born Dec 28, 2012... and are Warrior Canine Connection puppies that will be trained as therapeutic service dogs that "harnesses the Healing power of the human-animal bond"
They are adorable.. and just watching from time to time is guaranteed to reduce stress and promote hugs..
I'm link challenged...but they are easily Googled..
I have seen them. ADORABLE.
Here's a link for others:
http://explore.org/#!/live-cams/player/service-puppy-cam
for you, nenagh!
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Thanks, OneGrassRoot
sheshe
Here's another cute one:
Thanks pacalo,
sheshe
Maybe we could have a DU get together there?
ETA Link: http://timsplaceabq.com/
No, I'd never heard of Tim's Place. WONDERFUL! You local DUers should check it out for a meetup!
Thanks for the link, because I see National Hug Day is coming up!
for you, Turborama!
Almost had to be admitted to the hospital yesterday, but my temperature broke early this morning, so I can begin healing here at home. I've been crazy with fever, and my ribs are wrapped to diminish the pain from all the non-stop hacking.
(((((((((((((HUGS ARE GOOD)))))))))))
Thank you so much, OCR -- much appreciated!
Geeeeeez, you need SERIOUS healing hugs!
Quite a few are down with the flu, leading to pneumonia and bronchitis, with the painful coughing fits.
I hope you feel MUCH better very, very soon.
Well, this is General Discussion, but I agree about ASAH.
UnrepentantLiberal
Maraya1969
Endorphins for everybody!!
nolabear!
for you, RoccoR5955!
samsingh!
and I go to an assisted living center that houses my father and a few dozen other elderly who need a hand to resume their lives as normally as possible. Pom and I participated in chair exercises with the guests on friday and there is a new lady whom I have never seen before. When she saw my dog, she tearfully asked if she could pet him, "of course" I answer. Arthritis has overtaken this woman's left side, so she begins stroking the dog with her right hand.
She pets and pets my dog, now mind you, the Pom is not friendly with just anyone. He loved this woman, he walked around in circles attempting to pet her I believe. She is still tearing and tells me she is sad they won't let her have a dog in this place.
She tells me where her room is so the next time I bring poochie, we know where to go.
When she was petting the Pom, I swear to you, she looked 10 years younger and relaxed. Hugging my dog absolutely made her day!
So yes! a hug can be a simple panacea to much stress and worry.
A BIG hug to the sweet little old lady!
IS THE BEST!
Wouldn't it be wonderful to incorporate more rescues to share their unconditional love with others?
Thanks for the reminder that I want to look into that more and make a list of such programs. Children with autism, wounded warriors, the elderly, people housebound for any number of reasons...pet therapy can be so healing in many ways, you're right!
Not sure if they still do it, but years ago I volunteered essentially offering "hug therapy" for preemies. Human contact is so important. Just holding them and rocking them and hoping they felt the love...it doesn't get much better than that.
Good for you and your Pom, Helen Reddy! I send virtual hugs to the sweet old lady as well!!!
Your story made my day.
I am so glad there are people like you in the world.
Cher
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Thank you, In_The_Wind.
Back atcha:
...I'm never averse to a hug...
for you, Aristus!
Odin2005
(If you're old enough to remember "Welcome Back Kotter" you'll remember Horshack)
Pugs are adorable!!!
This may be the cutest hug ever:
to you, FWWM!!!
:hug to you, shenmue!
And thank you for the hug as well.
for you, Stuart G.
Packing up to move in a couple weeks. Virtually hugging is just as good, tho!
Good luck with packing and your move. I hope it's one you're looking forward to, for the most part.
A most awesome huge hug!!!
Back atcha, jillan!
for you, glinda!
Thank you for sharing that.
for you, pacalo.
And here's one right back.
for you, AverageJoe90!
For you, Spirochete!
I hope you feel better soon.