Love, compassion and strength. . .

I received the most wonderful items in the mail today.   I cannot tell you how special it is to have both Otis and Tess on the necklace, together as they always were.    (It was originally for Otis only, after he passed)    And the protection charm has Mr. Gator’s name on the reverse, so my whole furry family is included.  Which gets to the title of this page – about how the love and compassion in this community really does give each of us strength.   We are all in this together, no matter where we are in the journey.   Although no one wants to have to face cancer and this is a hard, emotionally exhausting journey, I truly feel blessed to be part of this community.

 

img_1880

One happy dog. . .

As many of you know, I signed Gator’s adoption papers on Saturday.   I know that he doesn’t know what’s in the papers any more than Otis knew what was in the x-rays, but I still think he is happy!   He is settling in and getting more comfortable every day, and is the best trained dog I have ever owned.   I still miss Otis and Tess every day, but he is a big sweetie who brings a smile to my face.

 

This dog is a winner in every way!
This dog is a winner in every way!

 

Gator’s New Home

Resting on Enzo's dog bed, the only one he has used do far (and probably the least comfortable of the bunch, but also on of Tessie's favorites).
Resting on Enzo’s dog bed, the only one he has used do far (and probably the least comfortable of the bunch, but also one of Tessie’s favorites).

 

img_5144
The inside form of critter patrol – you can see part of the gazebo right outside.

 

Thinking about whether this will work. . .
Thinking about whether this will work. . .

 

Yep, guess this is ok.
Yep, guess this is ok.

 

img_5142
With his gator toy. My bed is one of his favorite places to play.

Welcome to Gator!

Gator, with his gator, on his new bed.
Gator, with his gator, on his new bed.

 

img_5119
Very apprehensive still, seeking constant interaction and reassurance.

 

He's a big boy, at 125 pounds. Well trained, although walking is a bit of a problem if he sees a squirrel.
He’s a big boy, at 125 pounds. Well trained, although walking is a bit of a problem if he sees a squirrel.

 

img_5122
He is curious about everything.

 

He loves the back yard, almost as if it is a magical place to him.
He loves the back yard, almost as if it is a magical place to him.

 

Our first meeting, at a McDonald's in Joliet, IL, about 30 minutes from my house.
Our first meeting, at a McDonald’s in Joliet, IL, about 30 minutes from my house.