Thursday, April 30, 2009

Miilestones...

We've reached many milestones, recently. All of them were celebrated. Good changes!

1. Jordy began pooping in his own yard. Believe it or not. And yes, when he did it, starting with the very first time, we cheered and praised him for it. That dog can learn anything. But, he does prefer to poop on his runs. Especially if he has someone to squat with him so he doesn't feel lonely...

2. Mackenzie not only came out of her terrible depression after losing her last mate, but she has come to life! She will often instigate playtime with Jordy, and now even with us. Here she is bringing a stick to Jordy to invite him for tug-of-war!


3. Although we can't be sure, because se didn't live with Jordy before he had a friend, we believe he really loves having a buddy too.

4. We are all much more physically fit, and getting more so every single day. Well, maybe not Jordy. He was in perfect shape when he started. The only thing not in better shape around here is my shoes.

5. The dogs have learned to SHARE. I wouldn't have thought it possible. But, it's true. They have moved beyond the constant game of "keep away" and trying to outrun each other to obtain a toy before the other one gets it. I have witnessed both of them nudge a toy toward the other in a clear invitation to play.

6. They have become a pair. In the first few days, although they got along immediatley, you would still often see one dog doing one thing and the other doing something else. Or, they'd be in different rooms. Now? You never, ever, see one without the other. Not even for a minute. Not even if they are sleeping. They even beg for dog biscuits from the neighbor together.

7. There is more joy in our home. Losing Hurley last October was a very difficult experience. And Aaron and I have always felt something was constantly missing. Jordy seems to have filled that void for us. Once again, we come home to TWO wet noses sniffing to see where we've been. When you open the front door, there are TWO floating heads sticking through. When a visitor comes, there are two guard dogs at post. We even have a difficulty time getting them to go on runs separately, since we're not all at the same pace. Mackenzie tries to speed up, and Jordy slows down, so they can stay together.

8. We can resume our normal activities. We're planning a camping trip, and can't wait! When Hurley got sick, he couldn't travel in the car anymore. Mackenzie had to give up all her fun while we took care of him, and after he left, she was too sad for any fun. Now, we can do the things we love again. Hiking, running, and possibly even a vacation up to Mackinac! (They have many dog-friendly hotels!) This is going to be a great summer!

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