Here We Are!!

We are off and running into the new year! And it is another year that begins with my hope and determination to be better at keeping this blog going and up to date. 

But before going forward, I have to look back just a little. It was not the best in many ways. From losing 4 of our dogs - Lily, Milo, Marley and Max and our quirky Siamese cat Tiggy - And my oldest brother and my Father in Law. 

By the time we were getting ready to turn the corner towards Labor Day in September, I was planning the memorial service for my brother in Kentucky - We were also getting ready for Carl to retire at the end of September. 

Honestly, I was just not in a good place emotionally. Everyone around me knew it, even the doctor I work for knew it. He called me into his office after work one day and told me to take some time off. It wasn't a choice to work or take time off. He told me to take off as much time as I needed, and he would pay me for whatever time that would be. Dr. S, without a doubt is the best doctor I've ever worked for. 

Dr. S was right of course. So, I planned a quick trip to a part of Virginia that I'd never been before, and stayed at an out of the way Airbnb (that was very reasonably priced) for a couple of days. Circa 1889, it was originally a country store that is full of charm and history. Near the small town of Tappahannock, on the Rappahannock River, and other old Virginia towns. 

The area proved to be a perfect and fun place to explore, slow down and recharge. I came back feeling focused and ready for what was ahead. **The below photo is a marsh on the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge - Hutchinson Unit

And since I mentioned focus, the dogs of course remain my focus. Unfortunately Noodle was diagnosed with kidney disease in October. We're trying to slow down its progression with Chinese herbs, and a fresh diet. So far, he still has a good appetite and energy. I'm hopeful what we're doing will prolong Noodle's  life and keep up his appetite strong too. Paws crossed! 

We have also added our Lab foster girl Keira as a permanent addition to our crew. You'll recall that she is heartworm positive and has cancer. We have really grown to love our 'little chocolate girl.' It's hard not to feel that way. Keira is a gentle shy soul, that has come so far in gaining confidence and trust. Lab Rescue made her available for adoption and the thought of Keira leaving us was causing that familiar ache in my heart. 💔  Of course we know that our time with her will be limited. Our goal of course is to make whatever time that will be, be the best for her. 

In a nutshell, this takes us past the holidays and into 2026. Okay, not so fast, there were celebrations too. 

~Our sweet and most senior boy Max~

My next post - that will come in the next day or so - will tell you all about them. 

THANK YOU as always for stopping by!! 

~A Northern Flicker at the Airbnb~