days 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27

We had a whirlwind holiday weekend, starting off with Thanksgiving at my Mother-in-Law's, then an Iowa vs. Nebraska football party on Friday, and the rest of the weekend was devoted to mourning our sweet, little, furry Gussy -Wussy (my Mom and Dad's dog), who died on Saturday.

It has been a very difficult time for my Mom and Dad, who loved him so much!  I am very thankful that they/we were able to have him around for 12 1/2 years.  He will be greatly missed!

So, here is what I am/ have been thankful for these last 5 days:

I'm thankful that I was able to be a shoulder to cry on, and hopefully a supportive family member.  I'm thankful that I had the opportunity to work some things out, hear some complaints, and offer my opinion on certain things.  (I'm not trying to be vague here, but I do not really wish to go into detail here.  Some things are better left private.  But, I was extremely thankful to have had this situation...hopefully the walls will remain down).

I'm thankful that Gus did not have to suffer alone, and that he was well loved and taken care of in his final moments.

I'm thankful for my parent's vet, who was a huge comfort to them and who went well out of her way to help them care for Gus.

I'm thankful that my sister Karen and I were able to be there to comfort my Mom and Dad.  Thanks Chris, for making it possible for me to spend some time with them without the kids.  (And, I'm thankful that they have each other to grieve with).

I'm thankful that I got to know Gus really well.   He was a sweet and kind dog.  He was so good with all the kids (and all our other pets).  He was all of ours to love.  I'm thankful that he had the opportunity to see all of us before he left us.  I'm pretty sure he was holding on for that...

Gus
"the last of the firsts"

We'll miss you Gus!