Flashback Friday

I found this photo on my laptop this evening and it took me on a little trip back to when Holly was a puppy and I was a blonde. I had to share as it totally shows mine and Holly's relationship as it always has, and probably always will be... she goes exactly where she wants to regardless of who or what is in the way, and even if that means she's standing on my head she'll still be making me laugh.

Staying Positive

Since my move to the USA I've already faced several challenges. I flew out shortly after some surgery and as a result getting ready to travel and the journey itself was a lot to conquer. Since I arrived, submitting the correct paperwork to live here, open bank accounts and pass driving tests have each come with their own set of challenges. Then just as I thought I was getting on top of it all, I ended up having more surgery last week.

However despite the hurdles I'm feeling really optimistic about everything. I've successfully negotiated the challenges that came my way, despite what sometimes felt like a one step forward two step back approach! We successfully arranged the most awesome wedding in just one week. Plus I've coped well with this most recent surgery and keeping my focus on resting and healing.

"Life's problems wouldn't be called hurdles 

if there wasn't a way to get over them"

~Unknown

Most importantly I never forget that I have a lot to be thankful for. I'm so happy to be here with Paul and he has been so supportive through everything. I've constantly reminded myself the last few months that although the health issue is uncomfortable, sometimes painful and just not very nice, there are also worse things in life. I found a specialist here who is confident that this operation may cure the cause of the problems I've been having and that keeps me feeling optimistic. Although I'm out of action right now, over the next few weeks/months I'm hoping to heal well and get back to being me. I have a wonderful family here and in England and I have lots of adventures to look forward to!

Oh, and how can I forget to mention little Kiki... nursing her mum back to health one cuddle at a time. I'm thankful for this bundle of brat every single day!

Holly

A few weeks ago my Holly pup had to have some surgery to remove a lump from between her eyes. I was so worried about getting it done and, to be honest, have been putting it off. She's had some problems after surgery in the past as she doesn't heal very well but the vet had concerns since it recently started to grow bigger so they recommended removal to prevent problems in the future.

Straight after the op she looked so sorry for herself, poor girl. I felt terrible for putting her though the discomfort and whole experience.

She bounced back really quickly but wasn't too impressed that I had to put her collar on to stop her licking at her shaved legs!

I'm so happy with the result. Just a few weeks after the surgery she's looking amazing. I thought the scar would always be visible as the hair on her face is quite short, however it's nowhere to be seen!

She always was gorgeous in my eyes, but she's even more beautiful now!

My Girl...

This is my black Labrador Holly... She's told me that she didn't go any where near the wet paint in the kitchen but for some reason I don't believe her... 

My Girls

I just wanted to take a minute to share this photo of two of my beautiful girls that I took this week... they have been so wonderful the last few days when I've not been well. They're loving, caring and so funny with their amazing personalities and quirks!

At Least One Half Crazy!

It's taken my almost a week to post this update but I've got here finally! Last Sunday I did my first 13.1 mile run of the year as part of my Half Crazy challenge to run 13 half marathons in 2013.

I hadn't originally planned to go that far for two reasons: Firstly it's been snowing making conditions a bit tricky and secondly I was wearing my Cascadias for the first time so thought a shorter run might be wise while I get used to them. But it's hard to stop me and Lou from getting giddy so 13.1 it was! We set off on the trails to make the most of the pretty scenery. It was a great route over open fields, through woods, over little bridges, past frozen lakes and by rushing water. Thank goodness for my trail shoes as I have no doubt I'd have fallen on my arse in my adrenalines!

Despite the gorgeous and varied scenery, it was by far the hardest 13 miles I've run in a long time! I think the churned up mud that had frozen and then been covered in snow made such an unstable footing that I was constantly fighting to keep my balance and not go over on my ankles. Add into that a few hills and hey presto... ouch!

It was totally worth the effort though and I'm happy that Lou and I could keep each other going and encourage each other to do the full 13.1, especially when there was a short cut that would have got us home in 10!

We made sure we rewarded our efforts with a hot cup of tea and some cake afterwards along with cuddles from all of these sweet puppies!! And who can resist puppy cuddles?!

Especially 5 week old puppies... 

All in all it can't have been that terrible as I've arranged to run with her again in the morning! Wish me luck!!

Great Times

Finally there was a (slight) break forecast in the horrible weather yesterday so Paul and I decided to take advantage of it and took two of our black labs to the beach (I only have a 4 seater car and not boot so taking all three was out of the question!).

The forecast was for a slight chance of rain all day but I did start to wonder if we'd been a bit ambitious when it rained the whole way to Filey. However we timed it perfectly. We got there at low tide and the sun even came out!

Millie and Holly absolutely loved it and tore around after the toy, each other and plenty of other dogs too. We walked the full length of Filey brigg and then had a Paul adventure with a bit of rock climbing. The pups surprised me with how agile they were navigating boulders, especially as Holly is a short arse and Millie is commonly referred to as 'fat bum' in our house.

After thoroughly wearing out the hounds (and ourselves) we headed back towards home, stopping of course for a traditional fish n chips in the car just as it started pouring again.

Altogether, a wonderful day!

 

Awww puppy!!!

I just couldn't resist a quick post to introduce you to Betsy... my friend's 9 week old black labrador puppy

She is so beautiful and cheeky. She's gained her confidence even since I first saw her on Monday and is now into absolutely everything! 

So that's my puppy fix for today, I'll definitely be sure to post more pics as she grows into an awesome gundog! ♥