One Year Later

I noticed that my last post was Sept 11, 2010, so I thought I should post one year later. Today is the 10th anniversary of 9-11, and it's been sad watching all the memorials and hearing people's stories. I have been in California since about Aug. 12th. Murphy and I drove down to visit my dad. While I was here, my dad had a stroke, so I stayed and am trying to help with what I can. It's been a sad, tough time, seeing my dad go through what he's going through. Murph keeps me company - I was even allowed to bring him into the hospital for a visit or two. After three weeks, my dad is finally out of the hospital and in a skilled nursing facility. A whole other level of sadness.

Where Have I Been?

I'm back. It's been a busy spring/summer, full of emotion. Murphy's grandma, my mom, passed away June 11th. A very sad time for all of us. But friends and family gathered to celebrate the wonderful, caring lady that she was. I couldn't have gotten through it without my brothers, aunt, friends and, of course, Marc and Murphy, who were there with me. While in Irvine, Murphy got to visit a SoCal dog park. Not sure the other dogs knew he was from the Pacific Northwest. Not sure Murphy knew what to do with all of that sunshine. I'm glad my mom got to meet Murphy - her furriest of grandchildren. She was happy for me, that he had made me so happy. She also reminded me, when I was able to ask her for life advice after describing a book I had bought at the hospital about women sharing advice to their younger selves, to listen to others and love Marc no matter what. Love you and miss you, Mom.

Missing Murphy

I recently spent about a month in Southern California assisting my parents, one in the hospital and one at home. While I was happy to be there to help, I missed home very much. Especially Marc and Murphy. I also realized I was very behind on Murphy's blog. We can't believe we could love him as much as we do. He brings us such joy and entertainment. He still loves to cuddle up in my lap, yet play a mean tug-of-war. He's pictured here before his bad haircut (not sure I'll post photos!), and with some of his friends at Easter.

Murphy Turns One

Our little ball of fur turned ONE on May 18th! His birthday bash had to be delayed, but stay tuned.

More Catching Up With The Murph

And more photos to commemorate our puppy's first year...

Catching Up With Murphy

Murphy should still be in charge of his own blog. He might do a better job at staying on top of things. I'm so behind. Not that too much has happened. Murphy is growing and doing well. Our little fluff-ball turned ONE on May 18th. Can you believe it? He's enjoying visits to Doggy Day Care and Seattle's amazing dog parks. He spends time with his friends, Caddie, Guinness and Carly. And he's become truly one of the best dogs a person could hope for. I'm not just saying that. He's playful, loving, curious, funny. We can't imagine our lives without him. Our favorite saying is, "Everyone loves the Murph," because of the reaction he gets from people. It's true. Everyone does. Here are some photos from the past few months. Travels on the road and good times at home and with friends.

Mistletoe and Murphy

Murphy is getting ready for his big adventure, and so are we. We are all driving south to California to visit family. It didn't seem right leaving Murph alone this Christmas, his first Christmas. He already has gifts in his stocking and under the tree. And his bag is packed, unlike ours. Happy Christmas to all...see you in the New Year.