Recently my brother-in-law got a golden retriever puppy. I met this little ball of fur while visiting over the holidays. As a good friend of mine says, she is so cute I could "die of cuteness asphyxiation."

I noticed a lot of photographs with dogs and puppies in my great grandfather's collection. It makes me wonder what the deal is with soldiers and dogs? Or maybe my great grandpop just liked dogs? Whatever the case, these photographs are delightful.

The first photograph has writing on the back that says "Richmond and his mascot."






The third photo "Gentre with one of Luut. Mudd's pup."
















Forth photo "Richmond and Williams with German police dog."

Despite my efforts, today hasn't been great. So I turn to my photo collection to fill my mind with curiosity rather then let the frustration take over. I can't imagine what it would have been like to be a soldier at sea during WWI. Can you? My great grandfather's compositions are so beautiful. That man had some serious talent. I have so much to appreciate from this collection of old photographs.

The first photo shows soldiers loading onto the boat accross a small ramp. It gives you an idea of how large these ships were.

The second photo has writing on the back Waiting for something to happen. You can appreciate how cramped the deck is with men. In the distance a man in white holds a sign that I only make out a few words on when I zoom in. Homeward Bound, Virgina, World War.

These photographs are posted in the spirit of Halloween. Halloween is my favorite holiday. This year will also be extra special because my husband and I will be celebrating our 5th anniversary.

In the caption my great grandfather uses the term 'doghboy'. I believe 'doghboy' was intended to be 'doughboy'. They were American expeditionary soldiers that took part in the later years of WWI.

Apparently the term existed prior to the war as a British and American nickname. They later became known as GIs. There is a lot of speculation as to where the term came from. You can investigate this further by searching online.

Photograph 1 caption: American soldiers as actresses having a little trouble
Photograph 2 caption: American 'doghboys' dressed as actresses