the ups and downs of life...

This weekend was a real high.  My two classes at Paper and Metal Scrappers were awesome...so glad I brought extra kits!  It was so fun to have their customers pull into the parking lot wanting to know if we were on a field trip (while we were outside aging copper), getting excited about what we were doing and then signing up for the afternoon class or buying a kit to go!  There is so much enthusiasm in that store, starting with Brenda and Barb, the owners and then filtering down to the customers.  Love it...can't wait to go back later this year. 

Vern and Ashley (and the horses) ended up coming up there with me.  They took the horses on a trail ride that exhilarated and challenged all of them...a real high for them and a real sense of accomplishment as well.

Today, on the other hand, was definitely a down day.  Our almost 13 year old Bouvier, Thatcher, became suddenly disoriented this morning, started losing his balance and walking like a drunk, eventually couldn't walk and generally looked unwell.  By the time they reach that age, you know that each day is a gift and that it is inevitable that one day, you are going to have to make that very, very difficult decision.

After watching him for a little bit, we thought that today would have to be the day.   I have to tell you that I spent most of the morning crying, remembering the good times with him, hugging on him, etc.  We called Ashley at school and she came home early from classes.  One of us stayed with him all morning long and watched over him.

Eventually, he got up and went outside.  He began moving around a little more normally, was interested in our lunch food, and definitely had more energy and focus.  Right now, he's eating his dinner...with lots of enthusiasm.  We think that he may have had a stroke.  Our research indicated that dogs recover from strokes much faster than humans do...and he does seem to be recovering.  We're going to keep a close eye on him...and, for sure, we don't want him to be suffering or in pain.  We will appreciate the moments we have with him...what happened this morning was a certain reminder that life is fragile.

Comments

[Heather Ferris]

Just want you to know that Thatcher is in my prayers.These
wonderful animals in our lives, it seems to me, are such
pure expressions of love. I think that God
gives us these dear ones to share our lives and to teach
us what unconditional love is all about. At least
that is my perspective. God bless you & your family.

[shabbyVTchic]

We have an aging dog (11) and cat (20), so it's easy for me to understand your heavy heart today. I hope that the remainder of Thatchers days are joyful, and without discomfort. He certainly is blanketed in love.

[Stampin Machine]

Carole: A good 2 years before she finally died, our beloved Alexis had a stroke just like Thatcher. Once she was over being disoriented and regained her equilibrum, she was fine. Our vet told us if dogs start to recuperate at all, they will generally be fine. Unlike humans, if they make it through the stroke itself, they don't end up with other disabilities. You'll be amazed at how quickly he'll rebound if that's what's supposed to happen.

[Elizabeth K]

Oh no! Poor T! It broke my heart to read that, I started tearing up before I finished the paragraph afraid that you had had to put him down. I do hope he recovers quickly. Give him a hug for me! I don't want to think that I won't see him when I come back in May. Love to you all, especially Thatcher!

[Regina]

Hi Carol. My eyes have filled up with tears. I can understand your feelings. My heart aches for you. Here's a big hug and if I was closer, I would make you a cup of tea. We lost our 13 year old Yorkie, Skippy, in May. It broke our hearts. A week before he died I was reading a blog of someone who just lost their dog and she said they decided to celebrate instead of mourn. Although we didn't celebrate, I made a little mini album the week after Skippy died. It helped. I'm hoping and praying that Thatcher will rebound. God will hold your hand and guide you through this setback. Love, Regina

[Cricket]

I'm so sorry your fur-baby had some sort of stroke. It's so hard when our pets get into those golden years, it seems to happen so fast. Sending up some prayers for you and Thatcher.

[Debby Schuh]

I'll be thinking of you and Thatcher today. It's a good reminder to cherish every moment with all our loved ones.

[Judy in Carefree]

Oh, Carol, I'm so sorry about Thatcher and hope all will be well. I lost my little Shih Tzu, Morgan, in December and still haven't recovered. However, we are picking up our two new Shih Tzu puppies, Trigger and Dash, this coming Saturday morning so life also goes on and there is always a new chapter to write and capture on film!

[Melissa Cavanaugh]

Oh Carol
I got all teary eyed, before I read the entire paragraph.... so glad it turned out so well... I worked on my nature flip book this weekend... so excited to share when I finish! So glad you took the horses up north, I have been missing mine especially these last few weeks when the weather has been so nice... maybe by next spring, right?!? Have a blessed week!
Melissa

[Jeanette]

I've got nothing but good thoughts for Thatcher. Your Bouviers are the most friendly pets I've ever met. And I hope to see them again in September. :)

[Jill]

Oh goodness. I understand. 13 year old beagle lives here. Love Thatcher and enjoy each precious moment. I am thinking of all of you. Oh gosh.... why is it so hard...
Love...xoxox

[Rachel Richter]

((CAROL)) I didn't want to get to the end of your post, fearing the worst. Hope Thatcher improves - thinking of you all.

Rach xx