Lucy

Much sooner than we expected, we find ourselves with a puppy. It’s all my sister’s fault! Not long after Katie’s death, she texted me a picture of border collie pups someone had brought to the nursing home where she works to brighten up the day for the residents. We weren’t ready, but the pups were not ready either at five weeks old. There was one female; they lived across the valley from my husband’s parents; they were purebred.

Long story short, we fell in love. Lucy came home with us on December 26.

She’s awfully cute, isn’t she?

She’s learning very quickly and has settled in comfortably. If you think it’s crazy to take on a new puppy while one’s foot is still in a surgical boot, you’re right. I’ve probably overdone the weight-bearing activity. But on the whole it’s been a very good thing. There are some things I simply can’t do, and the girls have had to take on responsibility from the start. My husband has certainly done his share too — no need for coaxing there! All in all the bond is already strong.

There will never be another Katie, and she will never be replaced. But this little one promises to carve out a whole new place in our hearts. When she’s older I hope to train her to compete in agility, and that will be a brand new adventure.

On the whole we’re receiving her as a gift.