For John

Remembering my childhood friend John, I remember he always smiled.  His eyes would sparkle when he'd greet you and he always had a long, warm hug.  He worked so hard for his kids, despite being sick, despite the chemotherapy, despite cancer, he never stopped working or stopped being a full time dad.  He was made of strong stuff and much determination.  I thought he had more time, I think we all thought he had more time.  Cancer sucks.

We're keeping John's elderly dog, Obi, for a while.  This was his first day.  He has stayed here several times before and is happy here.  We're focusing on putting weight on him, slowly.  

Obi's grandparents asked that I see if I can get Obi accustomed to this dog bed.  The first thing I did was remove the fluffy stuffing.  He's too feeble for much climbing.  He's happy with the flat fleece.  

Obi after his bath.  

Cierra and Obi.
(Not my favorite picture of myself).

Obi with his friend Jager.  He likes Jager a lot.

This was taken today.  I think Obi's gained a pound or two.  He's really happy being here and within the pack.

Good smells in the grass.  I've been brushing him every day.  

I asked John's parents if I could have John's leather bracelet.  I first saw him wearing it shortly before his cancer diagnosis.  From then on he wore his yellow Livestrong bracelet.  It means a great deal to me to wear this and I'm grateful to John's parents for letting me have it.