One Month

Hey Mister!!

I have been thinking about you consistently since we departed ways on campus. We have not had any communication from Canine Companions during the month you have been an active student. They promise a first report the first week of October. That still feels like too far away, but I know reality is that we are getting closer. Once I get that first report, I will be able to visualize what it is that you are doing and how you are doing. Right now I am only guessing that you are hanging in there, as I haven't received a 707-area call.

Since you've been gone, the kids have independently shared throughout different times how much they miss you. We will relive memories with a smile and then fade off into not talking or sharing for a bit. It is a different style of mourning, as we know you are just two states away and haven't really left us. But there are days when we are really missing you, and we look at photos or videos of you, that it certainly feels like you are no longer on this earth. Those are the toughest days.

Are you wondering about your 12", four-legged friend named Cora? She's doing well, but I like to think that she misses her big, handsome playmate. While you guys had your ups and downs, I am very content knowing that you left on an upswing. You two finally accepted and acknowledged one another on equal terms the last quarter you were with us. It made the stress-less, so thank you for your part in that. She has been sleeping in all the spots where you used to hang; and you know that is kinda odd because she protected and loved her bed and space while you were here. I think she is trying to fill your big footsteps and show her talents hoping to be a future Service Dog too. Don't worry, it'll never happen, but we'll just keep playing the game with her.

Your favorite weather has been sticking around here, so really - if you are enjoying the California Sun, we still got it too. Come on up for a visit!!  (I wish)

Just wanted to check in with you to let you know that you are thought of dozens of times per day, and talked about frequently by so many who are not part of our family, but are part of your journey. All of your siblings are still in College, so your human families across the country are very proud of all of you. Keep working hard, pay attention, and try your best ~ it'll make your decision making process so much easier when it comes time for you to decide if you want a Working Life or a Change of Career Life.

Much love forever and always, Kolby.

~ Your Forever Puppy Raiser

Go Big, or Go Home

It hit me today as I was driving under the sunshine on this beautiful September day, that our Puppy Kolby has been in college for three weeks. I am pretty positive that no phone call from area code 707 at this point means that he received passing grades on his Medical and Temperament Testing.

And that is worth taking pause to Celebrate!!

There is clear sailing ahead for learning good stuff in the area of new training challenges. What happens now is all up to Kolby.

Will he GO BIG

or will he

Go Home.

The wait begins and I am so excited to see what he chooses.

You can do it, Kolby - if ya' wanna ...

2.5 Weeks

My heart thinks that Mister has been gone for 2.5 years, when in reality it is only a painful 2.5 weeks. How can the weeks be so seriously slow when my days have been jammed packed with activities, responsibilities and other thoughts? This Advanced Training wait is for those with a stronger mind, because I am going crazy.

All it takes is for me to reminiscence about the memory of Kolby to flip me in a tail spin of wanting to see him again. The kids went back to school yesterday and while the house was quiet, minus my happily, content, sleeping beagle who snores like an 89 year old Grandpa, I was happy and had a great day.

The characters in my life returned home full of stories. Everyone had a fabulous day; the kids, the hubby, the beagle, and myself. It wasn't until the sun set and I was on the couch relaxing that my mind was held hostage to the thought of our Black Lab Golden Cross puppy who used to lay next to the couch and poke his head up every now and then to check that I was still there.

This face. The intense eyes and the stories he would show about his emotions were like no other puppy I have known. The whites of his eyes were obvoius against his black fur and he wore his emotions and thoughts right through them.

What was his day like? What did he learn? Who did he play with? Is he happy? Does he think of us as we think of him?

Whomever is being blessed by Kolby will be the happiest recipient. I know Kolby will not disappoint, he will stand true to his Best Friend Status, showing his awesome teamwork and zest for all-things-good in life. The hanging question is who that person will be ... could it be our family, or will we be adding to our family upon Graduation?

2.5 weeks is really nothing in comparison to the big picture of life. But 2.5 weeks to a Puppy Raiser with a Puppy in Advanced Training - it is a lifetime.