At the tail end of one of the not-the-greatest-last-week, I found out Gavin has cancer again and needs to have surgery again. He just recovered from his stomach surgery months after having it, so I was looking forward to giving him ease and joy for the remainder of the year. But that’s not what’s in… View more
My friend Annie used to say when she saw someone who seemingly had it all together, perfect hair, impeccable clothes, a loving partner, overflowing bank account, that they had life by the balls, and it always cracked me up. I certainly don’t have it all, but the older I get, the more joy and peace… View more
When I’m alone in the shop, I listen to inspirational podcasts. Tony Robbins and Oprah Winfrey are among my favorites. Listening to people who do and give back to the world in significant ways inspires me to want to do the same. Then I go back to my day, making three grocery store trips to… View more
When Gavin and I lived with my brother Chris, my nephew Isaac often joined us on walks, which I loved. One day, we were traipsing through their neighborhood when an off-leash dog approached us. I panicked, yelled, “go, go, go,” while my heart raced, and I emphatically flailed my arms around. Gavin and Isaac looked at… View more
Gavin’s never been food motivated. Getting him to eat his morning pills has always allowed me to practice patience and calm, even in a hurry. Now that he needs more medication and supplements, I’ve learned that if I take time to relax, softly pet him, and put myself in a peaceful state, the process is… View more
In the 23 years that I’ve had dogs as an adult, my current apartment is the first place I’ve had my own backyard. I’m sure my awe and excitement will wain, but I hope I always appreciate the private space Gavin and I can enjoy together. The other night, I was reading in my lounge chair,… View more
Whenever I’m spinning and catch myself wasting energy, I think, “IF I’m lucky, I have another 50 years on this earth. Is this how I want to spend my time?” In my younger years, that meant adventure and adrenaline. From hang gliding in Southern Illinois to zip lining in Costa Rica, I wanted to live… View more
My tank was empty last night, but I needed to move and felt compelled to do a 30-minute online yoga class. The asana was what my tired body and weary spirit needed. The instructor continuously weaved in the message that we don’t get rainbows until after rain, downpours, or storms. And for those experiencing droughts, not only… View more
When Gavin had surgery number three to remove two mast cell tumors and a lymph node, his dog sitter (who he adored) sent me the sweetest message wishing him well, ending with, “he’s so strong. You’ll both get through this.” And, I remember thinking of all Gavin’s endearing qualities. My perfect boy is sweet, wants… View more
The last year Finn was on this earth, I tormented myself, worrying that if he didn’t pass on his own, I wouldn’t be strong enough to say goodbye to him when he was ready. Whenever I was overthinking the blessing and curse that we, as pet parents, have that choice, I’d listen to the Beatles’… View more
