This past Friday was my soulmate-dog-in-heaven’s birthday, my Finn, and I felt his vibrant presence all day. Gavin bounced and bopped through our walk despite not seeing one person for him to greet. I soared through my morning order-picking and packing routine with a rhythm I rarely find. And I did a silent happy dance when… View more
Around the holidays, Gavin was struggling on walks again. He needs his routine, but he hates cold weather and dislikes all the new dogs who tend to walk through our park when people are on vacation. And, well, winter means fewer people to greet and pet Gavin and for him to follow while we make our way… View more
It’s been five months since we moved into our own kitchen. And, every time I unlock the door, I’m unbelievably grateful that it’s as sparkly clean as we left it. I don’t miss spending rent money to clean up other peoples’ messes nor the time wasted carrying everything we needed for the day from our… View more
As we wrap up another wild, woolly, and weird year, I’d like to offer some reflections inspired by the miraculous beings called dogs, of course. 1. Treasure and frequently thank someone specials who let you lean on them when you’re sad and who gladly sit by your side when you celebrate your successes, even small ones. 2…. View more
I like to think that I’m organized, plan well, and can be nimble when things don’t go according to my projections. The latter, only on my best days. Yet, somehow, this time of year, I find myself in a constant state of hurriedness and just-push-through-the-exhaustion. Why do everyday errands somehow take eight times longer during… View more
Gavin had his big MedVet day yesterday. Because of cancer, cancer, heart disease, cancer, cancer, and cancer, he spends an entire day with the oncology team four times a year and his cardiologist once yearly. I’m fortunate that I’ve met and made eye contact and seen the gentleness and kindness of the professionals I trust to X-ray,… View more
This time of year, I’m infatuated with cheesy holiday movies. Even when I can predict the ending in the first five minutes or the writing and acting are terrible, I love the underlying themes. Whether it’s love always prevails, believe in the power of magic, or when your intentions are pure, dreams do come true,… View more
When I started my first job at 14-years old, my grandfather said, “Brandi Kay, no matter what you feel like or have going on in your personal life, you go to work. And, you do your best while you’re there.” His words stuck with me. I’ve always valued hard work, perseverance, tenacity, honesty, and integrity. So… View more
After Finn passed, I reflected a lot on our last year together while I mourned. I remember being grateful that I stayed present throughout the entire process, even though it was difficult. I thought a lot about my indebtedness to my friend Kate who gave me the whole basement of her home, so Finn didn’t have… View more
