Labrador Retriever | The Pongo Experience

Our dear, sweet Reid made her journey to the Rainbow Bridge today. It was a decision that Steve and I had a very difficult time making. Reid’s mobility had deteriorated to the point where she was having a hard time getting up and moving around, despite her daily dose of Rimadyl. What made this decision even harder was that she still had her good days, where she wanted to play and appeared to be moving around without too much pain. But, those good days were few and far between the not so good days. We wanted her to go in peace and with happiness in her heart, not in pain and suffering because we waited too long. Knowing that doesn’t make it any easier though.

She has been my companion for 13 1/2 years and Steve’s for 11 1/2. I remember the day I picked her up from the breeder out in Wasilla. She was a tiny little thing, who had no idea that we were getting on a plane that night to go spend Christmas with my family in Atlanta, Georgia.

Reid loved Christmas and opening presents. She thought every present was for her.

She loved the great outdoors…

And was the perfect hiking companion as she would always stick close by.

It was impossible to keep her out of the water though!

Then came along that pesky brother, she decided she would have to tolerate.

She loved to play frisbee, ball, whatever she could find that she could retrieve. Just throw it NOW!

But what we loved most about Reid was her gentle and loving soul.

Her buddy, Buster the bunny.

Rest In Peace, Sweet Reid.

We love you very much!

November 6, 1998 – May 19, 2012

I was too comatose yesterday to even think about blogging. The past two days have been filled with wrapping, cooking, opening, eating, drinking, and just trying to maintain a calm household.

I’ve really enjoyed these past couple of days. When I have time and am not completely drained of energy, I love to cook. The prepping is soothing. The cooking and baking is fulfilling. The eating is, sometimes, outstanding. I wouldn’t call myself a good cook because I have messed up many a meal but overall, I think I do alright.

Christmas Eve Dinner: Hot Crab & Artichoke Dip, Bread, Salad, and Filet Mignon (for Steve)

Christmas Dinner: Bison Pot Roast (for Steve), Turk’y Roast (for me), Cranberry Sauce, Sweet Potatoes and Salad

The highlight of our Christmas extravaganza was watching Pongo’s excitement rise as he realized…there were presents under the tree! I don’t know what changed for him because last year it took all we had to get him interested in opening presents.

But this year…he was OUT OF CONTROL!

The only thing that seemed to calm him down was putting on his new survey vest–a present from Papa.

Poor Reid just didn’t seem to be enjoying herself like she usually does.

I’m guessing she was annoyed at Pongo’s overly exuberant enthusiasm.

And, the fact that he kept trying to steal all of her presents, which was absolutely not allowed. As you probably can figure out, there was A LOT of redirection going on.