May 15, 2006
Yesterday, Mother’s Day, began with a trip to the hospital for a blood draw to check the Coumadin needs. I was told that I could not leave there until the oncologist had been contacted and further instructions given. When it appeared that this might mean a lengthy sit in the lab, I said that I really intended to go to church, and couldn’t I be contacted by cell phone? The technician said, “I have instructions here that say I must not permit you to leave until after contact has been made. . . don’t move from that chair.” he concluded sternly. After a bit, he came back in and said, “I can’t get through, and I think you should just go on to church. . . ” I gave him a large smile and said, “Happy Mother’s Day to you, too!” The end result of all that was that I will need six mg. of Coumadin instead of four, and another check on Wednesday. The rest of the day was delightful with fine church services, family checking in, and Charles and I saying to one another once more how lovely our children and children’s children are.
Today is Alphie’s first birthday. At nearly 100 pounds, he remains “a lotta dog” for us. I have been working with him using the leash and a chain device that when he pulls, metal teeth sink into his neck, making it uncomfortable for him. At first I regarded this with horror, but without such a control factor, he simply drags me along like a minor inconvenience. I was astonished to realize that he doesn’t mind having it placed around his neck; we have training sessions each day and I see progress. Dear friends and Charles are dubious about my ability to train the dog because I think they feel I am too soft hearted. I have high hopes that in another year, we can trust him not to flatten the grand daughters – by then, he’ll be older and they’ll be bigger. He does run free for our forest walks so he can chase rabbits and squirrels and have a purpose in life.