The silly season

I joined a new Flickr site, Prepaid Envelope Art, where the idea is to integrate the printing and postal markings with the image. There are some great examples already posted and I'm trying to get the hang of it. I mean, cleverness and drawing are my two weakest skills. But it was fun to try.

Later I worked on my drawing skills where faces are something I've barely begun learning to draw.

We took Demi to a veterinary center this morning, a place where there are umpteen specialists. I think we've agreed on a treatment plan, at least for now, and I'm looking into one medication that we may begin sooner rather than later, not sure about that one yet. I have more understanding about what is going on -- it isn't just that Demi is in the early stages of chronic renal failure, it's that she was born with a congenital structural defect that is just now surfacing. So we'll do what we can to help her maintain function for as long as possible.

The most beautiful day

My favorite homespun dog command, used especially for Brix, is CHILL! It usually catches his attention and he backs off whatever ruckus he's creating.

It's a great command for me too. I had a block of time today so I settled myself on the back deck and drew geraniums. The temperature was perfect, something in the 70s, there was a gentle breeze and the dogs were wandering in and out but quietly pursuing their little wants. More days like this, please!

We're taking Demi to the vet tomorrow morning and hope to come home with.... hope. I would like some sort of treatment plan that will offer her more good years, something to extend her days on earth. I've been living with a poor prognosis for over six years, it's that sort of thing I want for my dog. The poor prognosis is a given for us both, but can she, like me, be on the far right tail end of the bell-shaped curve? That's my goal for tomorrow.

Throwing light on the matter

I tried the second challenge in the Yahoo Everyday Matters group, Draw a lamp. The proportions are off, I can see that now, but I tried and I tried!

Bit by bit we're seeing some light on Demi's health concerns. I've received many e-mails from other puppy raisers and participants involved with Canine Companions for Independence. Those who are more familiar with renal dysplasia have referred me to specialists in both western and adjunct therapies.

Demi is still with her family and is working as a companion to her disabled child. The official exchange will be on Monday -- our joy, their grief. We haven't made any medical decisions yet and will make them with the staff of Canine Companions for Independence. We will keep the family updated. And I'll probably be giving all of you more information that you want or need so I hope you will be patient. Thank heavens I draw every day. It's an enormous stress reducer, frustrating as it is to have a lamp tilt strangely with a too-small shade!