" A Dog"

There have been times people tell me, "Hey relax, it is only “A Dog” or "You spend way too much money and time on “A Dog” and you do/did what for “A Dog?”

It is obvious they don't understand. “A Dog” plays many roles in our lives--family member, friend, helper, defender, and from time to time, psychiatrist. Anyone who has ever felt the familiar warm heartbeat at their feet knows that “A Dog” is the embodiment of the meaning of unconditional love and loyalty.

I have spent many hours with just the company of “A Dog” and not once did I ever feel alone or abandoned.

Some of my proudest moments have been with “A Dog” and sadly some of my bottommost moments were likewise spent with “A Dog.” In my days of despair, it was the gentle touch of "A Dog" that provided comfort and determinations to overcome the sadness of the day.

If you too think it’s only “A Dog," you are missing one of the greatest gifts from God; just as special as a shooting star or a sunrise, just as pure as promise should be, and as warm as a mother’s milk to her newborn.

"A Dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "A Dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person and inspirits my soul.

For me, “A Dog” is more than “A Dog”; “A Dog” is the quintessence of all the optimisms and dreams of the future, fond memories of my past, and the pure and simple delight of the moment.

So when people say to me, oh it’s just “A Dog” they have no understanding that it is “A Dog” that brings me hope and gives me humanity, and allows me to be more than just “A Woman” in this world.

...and always remember, Only God loves you more than your dog.

Memories at the Tree

I am sitting quietly this morning gazing at our beautiful Christmas tree with all the lights twinkling. Last night was set aside for us to adorn the tree with our loving hands hanging irreplaceable and evocative ornaments. The candles were glowing, the aroma of coffee and pine meshed together and filled our nostrils. As I sipped on my warm and frothy Irish coffee, I affectionately watched Ana with awe. She is an incredible blessing sent to me; a child whom I’ve come to love as a daughter. I watched as she carefully selected an ornament and then the perfect location to hang it, all while talking and smiling and enjoying the moment.

I did pause a little as I partook in this “family” night remembering past loved ones whom have gone. One by one they came, they meandered into my thoughts, they gave me a smile, and then they slowly faded away again. I too was smiling as I remembered all the love my heart still feels for them individually as they all have left me with such loving memories and cherished time. I will never stop thinking about the special ones that touched my heart as they “own” that piece within me for all eternity. Beautiful and memorable is how I would describe last night. Warm and cozy in flannel on the outside warm and cozy on the inside by the Irish coffee, memories of all the loved ones in my life, past and present, including the four legged ones.

Always remember that our best friends walk beside us on four legs; that compassion isn’t only for humans; and that the relationship between two souls meant for each other never really comes to an end.

Please hugs your pups because only God loves you more.