The Spelzer Chronicles

Tough Days But Good Days

The first morning waking without Isabel brought a new round of uncontrolled sobbing, but also a clarity of vision. We have determined the best ways to honor the sweetest Shellies. We will be sponsoring a kennel at her shelter in her memory. With their board's approval we will set up a memorial fund to help people pay for training classes (especially appropriate with all the training I did with Isabel to help her get over her separation anxiety), and by saving a life.

While at the shelter yesterday to talk about the memorials we decided to visit the dogs. We met one with that spark of pure joy that Isabel had. We got to meet her in a private room. She hugged and kissed us just like the Shellies did when I met her for the first time. She chose us and there was nothing we could do about it accept fill out the paperwork and put down a deposit. We also had her feline tolerance tested. She passed with flying colors.

Of course Rosie had the right of refusal, just like Isabel did when I was getting ready to adopt Rosie. We brought her to the shelter this morning for the meet up. They got along right away. Ellie (her shelter name), got a little rude with Rosie who gave a quick bark and snap to put her in her place. Ellie was responsive and took her cue well, no fussing at all. Then it was back to the sniffing and greeting. We could tell Rosie really liked her because she wanted to follow Ellie when they took her to the visitation room.

So it turns out that by adopting Ellie we may be saving the lives of four dogs: Ellie, the dog who will be taking her place in the foster program, and the two dogs who will get spots in those open kennels.

I know that Isabel's tail is whirling like a propellor over that.

Our grief is still heavy, and it is hard just to see her picture, just as it was hard to come home from work today for the first time since she left. That process will continue, and the hole in our hearts will always be there. But knowing that Isabel's spirit will glow through our home with the joy and zest for life that Ellie has, just like Isabel's, will bring some much needed comfort to our pack, especially to Rosie who has never been without a sister since I've had her.

To her credit, Rosie has been a real godsend. She still looks for Isabel when we go out and come inside, but she still leaps and dances for her dinner, still gives her hugs and kisses, and has been extra snuggly. In many ways, she is being the strong one for us.

We should be taking her from the shelter on Friday, provided her surgery goes as scheduled. Since she's such an exuberant pup (only 6 months old), and Rosie is such a playful one, Ellie is going to spend a few days recuperating in a quieter place, under medical supervision, from her spay surgery. We'll get a few pictures up with a new page once she's officially ours.

It's a big leap of faith, but then so was getting Isabel. We are deeply pained by her departure, but feel she is guiding this. We feel so blessed to have been chosen by such a beautiful and spirited dog like Ellie. We didn't think it would happen so soon, but I think the Shellies had other plans.

I also want to thank all our dear old friends who have been sending paw mail and presents. We don't come here like we used to, but you are always in our thoughts and it's gratifying to see so many of you here.

We will respond later when things have quieted, and the tears slow up. But know that your kind words mean so much to us. We love you all.