Full Circle

This is probably the hardest blog I have had to wright since I started this. The title should tell you where I am going here.

It will be brief and I don't anticipate to many A.D.D. moments. Sorry to disappoint ya.

This past 2 weeks have taken me and my family on an emotional roller coaster the likes of which I would hoped never happen. The joys and sorrows of everyday life can be the worst thing to deal with.

A few weeks back, after having a nice dinner with the wife; tragedy struck. Our life path crossed with that of an unaware and unfortunate dog. Standing in the middle of my lane at 55 (ish) miles per hour and traffic heading straight at me from the other direction is not going to work to the dogs benefit here, sorry. Contact. I can tell you that just as fast as I noticed this, it was over. The suffering did not last, or even exist other than maybe a slight raise in its heartbeat. I felt absolutely terrible. I had just killed someones pet. My hands shook, my stomach was doing flips and suddenly it got really warm in clothes. Feelings that I hoped would pass and never return.

The joys. Last weekend, we had our family reunion in town. A festive and joyous occasion for everyone; i hope. I think deep down, we all knew it was possibly one of the greatest chances to get everyone together again. Times are getting the best of some of us and some of us couldn't make it. Which brings me to my Aunt Shirley. Great little woman, been through a lot.

Well, this was Saturday. In two days it was scheduled that Shirley have open heart surgery and a valve replacement. Now coming from a family with this issue in the past, concerns are always a bit elevated. I unfortunately could not make the trip, so, my father was going solo on this one to sit and await word to spread to the rest of us. Monday morning came and went. No word. So, early afternoon I made the call; not knowing what I would hear on the other side. My father relieved me by giving me news of a very successful surgery. A warm smile came across my face and I did everything I could to contain my joy to those around me at the time (for fear of looking nuts). To this moment, she is still in recovery but making the needed steps to getting back to normal.

Last leg, hang with me here. Tuesday, that being yesterday, a sad development arose again. We noticed that Midnight (our family stray taken in by my wife 2 years ago); who had been of an ill state for a month or so now, had gotten worse. Upon picking her up, we noticed that her belly was Jaundice and yellow colored. Something was really wrong here. Her appetite had gone down slightly as of late but we didn't expect this. My wife and I both knew deep down, this was the end of our kitty kitty. With close comfort and a watchful eye overnight, she had made it through the night time hours. We had previously (ironically) made an appointment to have her checked out one more time. That day was today. So, fearing the worst, I took one last mental picture of her perched on the kid's nightstand. Gave a kiss to her head, said my last goodbyes and went to work. Then the phone rang shortly after 9, "do you want to see her before i have her buried?" - a tearful and heartbroken wife said on the other line. I paused and said, no thanks - I have a great picture I am going to remember her by.

The point here is don't ever take any day for granted. Enjoy the good with the bad, make yourself stronger knowing that this roller coaster we call life; just happens.

R.I.P. - Midnight (kitty kitty), The family pet that some family let go of and we gave 2 great years to.
R.I.P. - The dog that was taken way to soon a few weeks ago. I am sure you are missed and I know how your family must feel. Ironic again huh.

And To my Aunt - Stay strong, your gonna get through this - you have all our prayers and thoughts........