My Helicopter Parent

Yesterday, Mom and Dad took Trouble and I to the mountains for the day. It's the first time I've been able to travel since I became ill in late August. I am still unable to hike, but I was able to get out, walk around, and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Mom took the above picture of me looking over one of the over looks on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.

Mom and Dad have always been extremely protective of Trouble and I. They hardly let us out of their sight. Recently, I have been hearing the term "helicopter parents." I thought it only applied to humans until yesterday. People think my Mom is the one who is overly protective, but they have "no" idea what lengths Dad will go to.

Dad decided to have an early human dinner and Mom agreed. Dad rode around in circles until he found the perfect parking place where he could see the car through the restaurant window at Big Meadows Wayside Cafe. I liked the spot he chose because it meant I could keep an eye on my humans and also watch all the people coming and going. However, it was a little embarrassing when I realized Dad was using binoculars to watch every move I made from the dinner table inside. Good grief, now the whole world knows I too have a helicopter parent! Come on, Dad, I'm 8 years old. I'm not a little pup anymore.

So, what's a wise old dog like me to do. I have to get through to him or at least teach him a lesson. While he turned to eat his dinner, I carefully removed the head rest and lifted the rolling cooler over the seat into the back with me. I didn't open it. I thought that might be pushing it. I just wanted to remind Dad who is really in charge around here. He's still trying to figure out how I did all that and he never saw a thing. He is even more baffled because I left no marks or evidence on the seat, cooler, or headliner in Mom's car.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Sharing Mom's Weaknesses

Many times in this life, God uses us (humans and furry creatures) in the lives of others. Quite often we stretch those we love the most and sometimes the stretching is painful. God has chosen to use me many times in the life of my human mother. I'm thankful mom allows me to share some of her weaknesses as she journeys with me through this life.

Mom likes the analogy of the Tortoise and the Hare. It's a childlike lesson that keeps on teaching in our home. The lesson for us is, slow and steady wins the race and we all want to win. So, why does mom try to run ahead of God instead of taking it one step at a time and staying the course?

 We all have weaknesses and my mom is no different. Mom wants to "get it done" and/or "fix" every problem that arises in the lives of those she loves. This may not sound like a weakness to any of you, but in my mom's case it's a weakness. As dad says, "she becomes obsessed with making all things right in the world." Mom's heart is in the right place, but she is NOT God and she can not fix everything.

Mom's other weakness is "lack of patience." Not only does she want to fix everything, but she wants it done quickly. Mom is learning to patiently wait and trust God in all things and situations. Daily she struggles and clearly she's a work in progress. We love her anyway!

Over the last few months, I have been very ill. In fact, I almost left this world . God has answered mom's prayers and allowed me to stay here for now. He continues to teach her to trust Him as she and the doctors reassess my health each week. I have not received and instant healing, but rather a gradual healing. I am slowly and steadily getting better. It's one step at a time. Trust and patience have become a part of our daily lives. Is mom still struggling? Of course, she is. She is human.

The human world often seems to complicated to me. Many humans may say, "you're just a dog," but it seems to me life would be a lot less stressful if we could all just trust God with the things we don't understand and can not fix on our own. Mom expects me to trust her and I do. So, I expect mom to trust God and stop worrying about things beyond her control.

Like Mr. Hare, I continue to make slow and steady progress. I plan to finish the race God called me to with victory, as I enjoy life here in "The Perdue Zoo!" Thanks again for your continued prayers, love, and encouragement.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

BIG NEWS

Today, we were told I am pictured in the November issue of DOG FANCY with my old golden doodle friend, Penny. The picture was taken a few years back by a professional photographer in a local park. Needless to say, mom and dad  will be getting a copy or two or three!

My health continues to slowly improve. My lab work from Wednesday is not back, but so far each week my blood levels have been a little better. My parents are still spoiling me and I am enjoying the extra love and special treats very much. Did I mention "special treats!"

I still get tired quickly. I do not have the energy to chase squirrels, but I'm roaming around in the house during the day and I take a few little strolls around in our yard each day. Thanks for your continued prayers.

Woofs and Wags,
Sitka