The last day of 2008 was one I’d just as soon not remember. I was mulling on this last week, trying to remember what I did and who I was with, and coming up blank. Until I remembered: Oh, that.
The latter half of 2008 had been spent, starting in June, consulting with the radiation oncologist and toting Mulan back and forth to appointments that left her exhausted, tired, and ultimately, no better. If you’re new to the blog, I wrote about Mu here. There’s a reason that post is at the top of my favorites list- I just adored that little girl.
On New Year’s Eve, one year ago today, I said goodbye.
As I drifted into a dreamless sleep that night, I hoped and prayed that the next year would be a little less sad. Well, that didn’t turn out so well, did it. So this time, I’ll repeat my request, a little louder and a bit more forcefully:
DEAR UNIVERSE: I WOULD HEREBY LIKE TO MAKE A WITHDRAWAL FROM THE BANK OF GOOD KARMA AND ASK THAT 2010 USHER IN A YEAR OF GOOD HEALTH FOR MY ENTIRE FAMILY, BOTH 2 AND 4 LEGGED. SINCERELY, ME
It wasn’t all bad, though. I mean, sure I lost Emmett after a short and vicious fight with lymphosarcoma, and Calypso disappeared into the ether leaving me to this day short of breath when someone brings in a pet who survived a coyote attack and reminds me of what probably happened, and the guinea pig keeled over for absolutely no discernible reason whatsoever, but… well, I didn’t have to go it alone. I had the good fortune to have a sympathetic group who helped me through it here on the blog I am so glad I started.
And, of course, 2009 brought Brody. How can one be angry at a year that brought me that goofball? Yin and yang, life and death, we all scurry around in the hamsterball of life bumping into each other and then the wall, trying not to roll down the stairs.
Here’s to another year of staying on the landing. Cheers.
On December 31, 2009 at 7:33am, Romeo the Cat said...
I am so happy 2009 brought Brody and Pawcurious! Despite the heartbreaking losses you had to endure, those ARE two wonderful bright spots.
I am seconding your plea to the universe. You deserve it!
xo
On December 31, 2009 at 9:30am, Moira said...
I have made it through, enjoyed, survived, thrived, or skated by 51 years now. Every year has been a blessing and a curse at the same time. It is that yin yang thing. With the good will always come the bad. OR with the bad will always come the good. My friends who are in their 80’s and 90’s tell me much the same. Life is ups and downs. The trick is to treasure the “ups”. As my friend Leona (80 yrs old) once told me – Have an attitude of gratitude. OK, I am truly grateful for the wonderful things that 2009 brought my way – time with great friends, my family is all alive and well, special patients, inspiring coworkers, a flourishing business, Dr. V and her words of wisdom and heart…. and the list goes on. Yeah, there were some things this year I could have done without, but they make the good stuff all that much sweeter. Thanks Dr. V for sharing the good and the bad with all of us. You inspire, teach, humble, and tickle us. You are one of the great “things’ in my 2009! May 2010 bring you all your heart desires.
On December 31, 2009 at 10:44am, kimchi said...
I’m truly grateful for having found your blog! 2009 has been a difficult one for you, me, and many others I’m sure. So, I’m third-ing your request for 2010. My own fur-baby is not feeling so well right now (heart issues) and your blog reminds me to take joy in every moment w/her. Thanks for providing such a wonderful spot on the internet!
elaine.
On December 31, 2009 at 11:00am, Shawn Finch said...
New favorite quote ever-”Yin and yang, life and death, we all scurry around in the hamsterball of life bumping into each other and then the wall, trying not to roll down the stairs.” I SO hope 2010 is an awesome one for you. Your site is incredible, as are you. Happy New Year Dr. V.
On December 31, 2009 at 11:02am, Annette Frey said...
I second that request for you! May it be a truly happy new year!
On December 31, 2009 at 5:06pm, Lisa W said...
Happy New Year to you, Dr V. I’m giving Oscar some big hugs today for helping to heal my heart during the latter part of the year, so I definitely understand what you mean about Brody. Blessings to you and yours – and all of the wonderful folks on this blog – in 2010.
On December 31, 2009 at 8:26pm, jeannette shaw said...
Goodbye, 2009! 2010 is going to be a good year.
On January 01, 2010 at 8:04am, Kim said...
Happy New Year! Looking forward to a great year to come for you and yours.
On January 01, 2010 at 9:55am, Pikachu said...
I third that request from the good karma bank. May all our Hamster balls remain steady on the landing . I love that analogy
Happy New Year everyone, Be safe , happy and warm.