Changes in Seasons

 I usually look forward to autumn. I love the colors, the cool crisp air, and the sights and smells of this amazing season.

But not this year. Because I know I will likely be losing my beloved companion of 12 years. My dog, Chloe.

She was recently diagnosed with an aggressive and rapidly-spreading form of melanoma. Although her blood work is excellent, X-rays reveal the cancer may already be in her lungs. The vet cannot say for sure, but she very likely only has months to live.

Her time all depends on how long it takes the cancer to spread. It could only be a matter of weeks. Or she can hold on for six months or longer. No one knows.

I try to concentrate on giving her the best doggie life I can and focus on the time we have left. She still loves her food and treats. We continue to take our morning walks, although she is moving slower now. And our walks also take more time because I no longer hurry her. I give her the chance to stop, sniff, and enjoy this world while she still has time.

But the uncertainty is always lurking in the background. I find myself dreading the time when she will not be here for a walk on the Lake Michigan shore or a short hike near the woods by our cabin instead of taking in the moment.

So, like all difficulties in life, I have placed this in God’s hands. I know he will guide both her and us in His wisdom. I am certain He will give her the gift of the time she needs while giving us the capacity to enjoy these moments with her along with the wisdom to know when it is time to let her go.

For now, we will keep taking walks as the morning air grows cooler each day. I will buy her a loofah dog—which she generally tears apart within a few days—just because I know the pleasure it will give her. I am going to buy the fancy frosted dog cookies at the pet store that I normally only buy for her birthday, just because I can. And I will keep reminding myself to live in each and every moment with my friend.

Because all seasons bring changes.

More Quotes To Live and Laugh By

 It’s a great time to be alive. The light at the end of the coronavirus tunnel is in sight, although it could actually be the headlights from another oncoming COVID train. Time will tell. Putin is attempting to start WWIII in Europe. And a large portion of the country continues to live in an alternative reality where facts are optional.

So, once again, it is time for more “Quotes to Live and Laugh By (Because Drinking Before 5:00 PM Is a Bad Idea)":

• I will put you in the trunk and help people look for you. Don’t test me.
• You know that little thing inside your head that keeps you from saying things you shouldn’t? Yeah, I don’t have one of those.
• If you see me talking to myself, just move along. I’m self-employed and we’re having a staff meeting.
• The Wi-Fi went down for five minutes so I had to talk to my family. They seem like nice people.
• I am pretty sure if I smacked the stupid out of you, there wouldn’t be anything left.
• I told my husband I wanted to be cremated. He made an appointment for next Wednesday.
• My dream job would be driving the karma bus.
• I have reached the age where my train of thought often leaves the station without me.
• I can keep my mouth shut, but you will still be able to read the subtitles on my face.
• My “resting bitch-face” and “active bitch-face” are pretty much the same thing.
• He who dies with the most toys is still dead.

So, as the price of a barrel of oil approaches the cost of your first car, don’t forget to keep a sense of humor. Find funny in the not-so-funny, and give yourself permission to laugh.

As the saying goes, “Don’t take life so seriously. You will never get out of it alive.”