I have to apologize to my blog readers as I just realized that last week's blog was incomplete. Not sure what happened to it, but I either released it before I finished my thoughts or lost the rest of it when editing. Either way, sorry about that.
The week was a bit emotional as I returned home. I always feel a bit sad when I leave my family although I was happy to get back to normal. Although these days I could ask what is normal for me? The sad news of the week is that Buddy had to return to South Carolina. Last Sunday morning, he bit my brother-in-law (BIL) for no reason. My BIL went to pick up my dad/papa for church and went in the house with a treat for Buddy. Buddy had met BIL previously, but for some reason decided he was not a good person. BIL ended up with stitches and tried not to make a big deal out of it because he did not want to upset my dad. I believe, Buddy was being over protective of my dad and only knew someone was in the house. BIL indicated he called out to let Buddy and dad know he was in the house. You never know what causes a dog to turn. My sister talked to several trainers who indicated it could be a difficult, long process to correct Buddy's behavior. My dad was fearful that Buddy could go after the kids or the neighbors so a difficult decision was made. The rescue organization was extremely upset about Buddy and offered to take him back. My sister worked with the rescue and the town animal control officer so that Buddy would be transported back to South Carolina. We all feel horrible about this and I think my dad and sister are now afraid to get another pet. All I know is dad is not ready for another rescue and said NO CATS! He donated everything to the shelter as he wanted no reminders in the house at this time.
I was thinking this past week about friends/friendship. A dear friend said to me the other day: you are a lifelong friend! I was humbled by this statement. I got to thinking about what makes a friend? What makes a lifelong friend? Is friendship something that shifts with time? In the past I've talked about circles and how one circle can cross over other circles with all the people we meet in life; are these friends? Do you consider friends an extension of family? I can honestly say when people come into my life they are usually there for a very long time. I have one friend from high school - Donna and I have been friends for over 40 years. We are not in touch all the time, but will pop up into each other's lives when needed. I hope to see her when I'm in Massachusetts next month. Many of my closest/dearest friends have been in my life for 15 to 30 years or more than half my life. We have seen each other through ups and downs, highs and lows, joys and sorrows, as well as working and retirement. I do not believe there is a time limit to be considered a life long friend - sometimes you just know down deep inside that this person will have an impact on your life and be in it for a long time. Many of these people are like family to me and I try to be there for them when needed. Have some of my friendships changed over the years - sure they have. I may not see friends as often or know everything happening all the time, but I could sit down today over coffee/tea and catch up. To me in many ways this embodies friends and friendship. People come into our lives for a reason and I hope I make a positive impact on those I touch. What do you think?
I did get to work out a few times this past week and boy could I tell I had not been doing much except shoveling. I have a new trainer (Tess) and she seems to know what she's doing. I don't think I'll see her as often as I did Frank, but we'll see how it moves forward. I was not as weak as I thought I might be, but it will be a bit before I am gun ho again. I even got to three Jazzercise classes and that was great - so good to see some of the people there. Did the winter impact your workouts?
I was able to get all the paperwork done for taxes this past week. It was easier than I expected as I was dreading the putting it all together. Thank goodness I kept everything in the same place so I could put my hands on it for business purposes.
I finished reading a few books this past week mostly murder and mayhem. I did read a wonderful novel: Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline. I really enjoyed this book connecting past and present. This is based on the Orphan Trains that were run in the early 1900s shuttling abandoned children from the east coast to the midwest to be "adopted." This book has peaked an interest in me about this time period and these children. I also finished : Committed A Love Story by Elizabeth Gilbert. It's her story of what happened after Eat, Pray, Love where she ended falling in love with Felipe. What are you reading?
I am going to a networking luncheon this week. Trying to get out there again for my coaching business. I am also looking into a volunteer opportunity or two to keep me occupied.
I think I will end it here today. I hope you have a wonderful week....if you are here in the area enjoy a touch of spring. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
"REAL GENEROSITY TOWARD THE FUTURE LIES IN GIVING ALL TO THE PRESENT." Albert Camus
"WE ARE CUPS, CONSTANTLY AND QUIETLY BEING FILLED. THE TRICK IS KNOWING HOW TO TIP OURSELVES OVER AND LET THE BEAUTIFUL STUFF OUT." Ray Bradbury
"CURIOSITY WILL CONQUER FEAR, EVEN MORE THAN BRAVERY WILL." James Stephens
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