100 Days of Happy

Day 97 - The Love Only a Dog Can Give and Get - June 14th

Tonight was dog training class again and I have to say there was a significant difference in the way Kimba acted.  No, she wasn't by any means perfect, and yes, she was so excited when we got there, she had the strength of a lion (lyon) no pun intended, but with a little bit of work she was actually looking to me for direction! She even got one, 'Phenomenal' from the instructor! Oh happy night! It was so incredible to finally see a difference, and I totally realize this could have been a fluke, but I'm counting it as a win, and who doesn't love a win once in awhile!  

Which brings me to # 3 on the Gratitude List: I am so grateful for this puppy, that has turned into a teen-doggie, and will shortly be a full fledged dog. 

I found out about this cancer adventure just 3 short days, before we were to pick her up at the breeders, she was 8 weeks old.  My number one question to the doctor, was if he thought I would be able to still get her in lieu of my new circumstances. Sadly, he told me that it probably would not be the best case scenario in my situation. I was devastated as we had watched her grow from birth and were so looking forward to being able to bring her home. It was then that my children stepped in assuring me that they would fill in the blank spaces for me, watching and caring for her when I couldn't.  We brought our new puppy home with high hopes and high concerns.

I was able to be with her for the first 3 months before my stem cell transplant, she gave me so much love and comfort, and sometimes a little grief and frustration, but there were so many days that having her next to me brought a solace that was incomparable! 

Then it was time for my transplant and a loving, daughter and her family took Kimba in as their own. She became a part of their family as I began my journey.  They lovingly shared pictures as they began their own adventure, selflessly loving her and sharing their life with her. She had such a great time, no adjustment time was needed for her, but I'm sure there was plenty adjusting in my daughters household, although all they shared was how great things were!

30 days later, I was finally well enough to get her back. I was actually afraid she wouldn't want to come home after having such exciting company to be with, and I'm not all so sure she felt it was a good trade, but home she came. 

Now 67 days later, 670 attempts at jumping in the Murano, and 67,000 steps devoted to walks in the park, I am so thankful for the joy and life this dog shares with me. She has the uncanny ability to soothe and smooth over those down days, and makes sure that I don't stay complacent with being down. She also is good at teaching me patience, tolerance and helping me to realize that it takes a lot of work to over come some of our hang-ups.  It's a marvelous thing to be loved by a dog who never holds back on love even when I'm not at my best, and it's been great to love her even when she's not at hers!

From left to right, Kimba, Diane