Two Great Days

Brief note about last week's blog: a grammatical error and typo appeared in last week's guest blog when it was originally posted.  As editor, I take full responsibility.  I am still learning and Rudy has big paw's to fill.  I will continue to work hard.  Thank you!
Boomer!

A good day was had by all on Father's Day.  It was fun hanging out with Daddy.  I gave him this fabulous card with a picture of a yellow lab on it.  Mommy made him a card.  It was a bit dorky, but we'll give her an A for effort.  Daddy has taken an interest in photography, so we got him a new camera.  He used it for our program last week.

The program at the Hastings Library last week really went well.  We were a little worried since it was our first one since our little Rudy went to heaven, but I think we were prepared.  Mommy and Daddy practiced reading the stories a few times.  That was going to be one of the harder parts, but Daddy sailed through it with one small catch in his throat.  Mommy was even able to join in on the song!

Mommy tried a new technique with the group.  Instead of doing most of the talking, she asked questions, especially when a difficult subject seemed imminent.  It kept the audience going and kids love to share!  We still shared a lot of information with them, but didn't reach uncomfortable stages.

The whole audience was very responsive, clapping, laughing and interacting.  It was the biggest group we ever had at the Hastings Library.  We saw some of Rudy's fans - Caleb, Owen and Addison.  It is fun to watch them get older and their love for Rudy is so clear.

Mommy decided the night before that we were going to give a free book of their choice to everyone as a gift.  We usually give little gift bags, but a book just felt right.  We knew Rudy would have wanted it that way.  They loved it!

Only Barb, the librarian could tell Mommy and Daddy were emotional.  She said it was "in their eyes."  Eyes can't hide things.  I guess that's why they are called the windows to our souls!

Here is a slide show of "Story time with Stacy."  That is what the library titled our program.  Stacy is Mommy's other name.  We hope you enjoy.

Love,
Boomer! the Mellow Yellow Lab

Legacy

Guest Blog from Mommy:
Prayers or good thoughts would be greatly appreciated for us on Wednesday June 19.  It is our first children's program since little Rudy went to heaven.  I have not been able to say Rudy's name in a sentence without tears and trembles since his celebration of life.  I believe shock, sleep deprivation and adrenaline helped us make it through that day.  Now reality has set in.

I do not want to upset the kids and the phrases "giving up" and "not meeting a commitment" are not part of my character.  It will be a challenge.

I used to believe Niche's saying, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger."  Stronger is not the word I would use anymore.  Perhaps something like it "changes you" would be more accurate.  Change doesn't have to be negative.  It can make you motivated, driven, empathetic, kind, introspective or informed.  I'm not going to lie and say sad or confused don't creep into the mix once in a while.

A dear old friend recently told me, "time doesn't make a loss easier, it just makes it different."  This is true.  I have always believed in remaining positive and and will try to continue that belief.  Now it has an even more powerful purpose.... and that purpose is to carry on Rudy's legacy.  That little guy never gave up.

I was recently reminded that "Rudy is not only special to us, he is special to many."  Heartfelt thanks to Jill, Michelle, Merry and Courtney for their encouragement.

Gratefully,
Stacy
(Boomer! will return next week with his regular Blog)

Anniversaries

Anniversaries commemorate life changing events.  Some are happy, some sad.  Some affect the world while some are just in our heart alone.

Mommy and Daddy recently celebrated their wedding anniversary, a day which happily impacted the lives in our little world.  My brothers and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for that special day!

Last Saturday, Mommy and Daddy had a fabulous dinner at a nice place called Kincaid's.  They would highly recommend it for a special occasion.  The people there were friendly and helpful.  Daddy had a wonderful steak that he could cut with a butter knife.

I had steak once, too.  It was sitting on the kitchen counter waiting to go outside on the grill.  I saw it, it looked good, so I ate it.  I didn't need to worry about cutting it, I gulped it down.  I had a little stomach ache later, but it was worth it!  Mommy and Daddy still don't believe it.

Mommy had crab cakes and asparagus.  She likes to eat healthy.  It sounds good, but I think I prefer the steak!

To top off the evening, the nice people gave Mommy and Daddy a desert called Creme Brule!  That is french for "burnt cream."  They said it was delicious!  Silky and smooth custard with a crust of brown sugar on top.  It was served with fresh berries - Yum, Yum!

Love,
Boomer! the Mellow Yellow Lab