12.18.2011

December 18, 2011

White Dog and the White Dog Army sensed Steve and my inability to fully accept the horror that had happened in Houston. We both had a restless night filled with nightmares and tidal waves of grief over the incredible loss. This morning we cuddled all together and pressed close for longer than usual.

This was to be our "get things done, our Christmas Eve Open House is only six days away and we are so behind" day. I had mapped out an action plan that included cleaning and cooking and wrapping gifts. We were going to stay focused on the upcoming holiday...hard work now for big rewards later.

And then Dragon and Senji's dad called. It had been a neglectful busy week at their house and the boys really wanted to go hiking with the White Dog Army. Did we have time?

No, of course we didn't have time. We had things to do. We had cleaning (the fan blades have cobwebs what will people think next weekend). We had to finish wrapping and tagging gifts. No we didn't have time to spend with friends....sharing the sky and exercise and nature...being together and just laughing. We had STUFF that needed doing.

I didn't say these things, of course. Because simultaneously, I looked into every one of those floofy white faces that I love and remembered we held no guarantees that we'd have another chance. We have to live each moment and take every opportunity we are granted to let those important to us know their place in our hearts.

Is the White Dog Army more important than nose printless windows? No question! Does helping a best friend walk off stress take precedence over putting fancy ribbons on Christmas gifts? Don't be silly enough to even ask! Does sharing a moment that will never occur again trump a fifth variety of cookie on the dessert table?

The tears flowed as I thought about all the things that will never be the same for those in Houston. Things that no one would guessed the day before would suddenly change forever. And I looked around me with the aching thought that it could have been us...or Dragon's family...or any of us.

Time is a treasure. Spend it wisely.

"OK," I said when Gregg answered my return call. "Let meet at the Nature Center at 9am and give these pups a workout! After let's have brunch somewhere where the kids can have really really good bacon. We're celebrating the Christmas countdown."

14 comments:

Suka said...

hey White Dog Army,

We just found out tonight about the devastating tragedy to the Pittie Pack. Our hearts and love are with them. It is truly amazing to see how the blogging community has come together to help the family. That is the spirit of Christmas and love shining through.

Your mom once again shows how wise she is. I am furry happy she decided to spend time with you pups and her friends at the park today. Each moment is precious, and to be cherished. I know you are hosting a fabulous party in a few days, but your friends won't care about a dirty window or a dusty fan blade. What they will care about, though, is that they are with you, whom they love. Peace.

Suka

Mack said...

Oh no -- my old mom has been so neglectful of my blog lately we had no idea. This is so awful.
Words can't express how bad we feel for the Pittie Pack.
We are so thankful for all our blogging buddies, especially the WDA!

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

We found out Friday and things haven't been the same since. We are counting our blessings and grieve for those who have suffered so much. Your post today is beautiful and makes us stop to remember to live for today and live it to the fullest.

Random Felines said...

What a truly wonderful post.... you are all right in that it is more important to spend the time with those we love...besides, the nose prints on the windows just shows the love of those in the house. :)

Remington said...

That was SO sad....they are in our thoughts and prayers....

ForPetsSake said...

Wow - powerful, beautiful post! You're absolutely right on this! I have been considering that great and terrible loss suffered through fire and smoke and cannot bear to think of such a thing actually happening. But it did.
Being mindful of time is such a challenge when there are things that are "supposed' to be getting done, but you just never know what lies around the corner. Many hugs to you and your pack. I've been away from Blogville for too long and have felt disconnected; it's good to be back

Coco Bean - The Princess said...

My sisters and i would like to send you my sincere gratitude for helping support the HPP.

Tail Wiggles & Puppy Kisses,
Your new Friends - Coco The Princess, Lady Godiva & Truffle too

Brian's Home Blog said...

That truly was such horrible new. My Dad sent them some green papers. It is just so very, very sad.

I am sure your open house will be a sucess, the WD Army always succeeds!

KB said...

"Time is a treasure. Spend it wisely." - That is the quote of the day.

Such tragedy that it breaks my heart. I'm glad that you went with your friends. This season is about love and togetherness rather than clean houses. Now, I need to keep reminding myself of that important point...

24 Paws of Love said...

What a beautiful tribute to life and living. None of us can believe the horror that happened in Houston. The best thing we have together is time. :)

The Daily Pip said...

Time is a treasure, spend it wisely. I love that so much. Thanks!

Your pal, Pip

Tweedles -- that's me said...

Enjoy this moment that we have.
Enjoy it with all your heart.
Never regret taking the time to take a deep breath.
My heart is still aching.. but I am trying to take in a moment and enjoy it.
love
tweedles

♥♥ The OP Pack ♥♥ said...

Very wise of you to live for today and enjoy the love and fun of good friends. The rest will wait.

Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, Ciara, and Lightning

Sagira said...

It is so very sad and I can't get them out of my mind especially Miss Shelby after all she has been through. :(