Good morning. I hope you all are enjoying your Memorial Day weekend, unconventional though it may be.
Ours has been pretty gloomy so far, but we did get a short reprieve yesterday afternoon, when the sun decided to shine for a bit. We took full advantage and spent a few hours in our backyard pool. It’s grey and foggy again this morning, but it should clear up later today and be nice for the rest of the weekend.
We don’t have any grand plans for the day beyond a Zoom church service this morning, but I’m sure we’ll end up in the backyard again. I’ve got a book I’ve been trying to read, but I haven’t been able to get into it yet. I’m planning to pull that out again and give it another go.
Some of you are in places where churches are opening up. What does that look like?
I mentioned in last week’s Coffee Talk that it’s been a rough few weeks for our family for several reasons, and I talked about losing Paul’s dad rather suddenly, although he had been declining for some time.
In addition to that, it became evident about three weeks ago that I’m allergic to our new puppy, which brought a different type of grief into our household.
I consulted with our allergist and tried several medications and made changes to our environment in attempts to keep him, but nothing was working. A few sniffles are one thing, but asthma is entirely another, especially with a novel coronavirus raging all around us. (And yes, I was tested for COVID-19, just to be sure that wasn’t the culprit.)
I’ve been through this before — many years ago, with a cat. I kept him longer than I should have, and I ended up with multiple bronchial infections. I could see this situation going in the same direction, and we finally came to the conclusion that for the sake of my health, we would need to find a new home for Ozzy.
Needless to say, this has been devastating to R, who was his primary care giver. She worked so hard to get him sleeping through the night and obeying commands, and she spent all of her waking hours watching him and caring for him. She was completely and hopelessly in love — we all were.
The only type of dog I’ve had allergies to in the past were pugs. I hadn’t even considered that a goldendoodle would be an issue, and we envisioned him being part of our family for many years.
The point of getting a puppy during this quarantine was to brighten our days, not make the situation even more grim, and this whole turn of events has been an incredible disappointment for all of us.
It’s absolutely gut-wrenching to weigh your own health and quality of life against the happiness of your children and well-being of a beloved pet. We debated keeping him for a while longer to give us more time with him, but delaying the inevitable was only making our home life more sad and stressful.
Several people offered to take him when they heard of our predicament, but one couple seemed to be the perfect fit. She’s retired, and they recently lost their golden retriever of 15 years. They have a large yard and plenty of time to spend with a puppy, and they only live 20 minutes away and invited us to visit him anytime.
All that to say, R and I took Ozzy to his new home on Thursday.
It was the single hardest thing I’ve ever had to do as a parent. It’s one thing to give up your own pet when he’s making you sick; it’s entirely another to ask your child to give up hers.
C is trying to be strong for us, but she misses him too. She had already taught him some tricks, and she was looking forward to spending more time with him after her school year is over in a couple of weeks. The house just feels deflated and empty without him.
Now that we are on the other side and the worst couple days are behind us, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but man, those were some excruciating days.
Besides missing our sweet puppy, I was racked with guilt and second-thoughts, and R was utterly heart-broken. Despite that, she was very mature about it all. Not once has she blamed me or taken out any of her grief on the rest of us.
After spending most of Thursday and Friday in bed, she finally perked up a bit yesterday. We went to Target to get some new pool floats, and she enjoyed hanging out in the pool with Paul and C and playing with sidewalk chalk without being on puppy duty. It was a balm to my frazzled nerves to see her laughing and smiling again.
Ozzy was a large part of our life, but for a relatively short period of time. While we’re still sad, and we certainly miss him, we’re already adjusting back to our old normal.
Please know, this is not a decision we took lightly by any means. I have been physically ill over it — and I’m not talking about the asthma.
I really wasn’t ready to talk about it yet, but it’s hard to prattle on about the weather and a few more weeks on stay-at-home orders with all this going on behind the scenes.
And of course, this was all happening the same time Paul’s dad got sick, so it’s just been one big emotional roller coaster around here.
Fortunately, every day gets a little bit easier, and the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.
I’m eager to return to some of our normal activities, but it looks like that will still be awhile around here.
Our county is supposed to move to the yellow phase of reopening by June 5th, but our yellow phase doesn’t look a whole lot different than our red phase.
When a county moves to the yellow phase in Pennsylvania, the stay-at-home order is lifted, but gatherings are limited to 25 people, with social distancing measures in place. This means small graduation parties will be allowed, which is nice.
The yellow phase also allows some businesses previously classified as non-life sustaining to reopen — manufacturers, pet groomers, and small retailers being the most notable. However, restaurants and bars remain open for takeout and delivery only; and gyms, salons, malls, and movie theaters are to remain closed.
I’m most excited about the dog groomers being allowed to operate. Given a choice, I think I’d pick that over my own hair salon opening. Our Savannah is beyond overdue.
C occasionally trims her face and cuts out the worst of her knots, but we stopped short of ordering clippers and giving her a complete haircut, and she is in desperate need. At this point, we could mop the floor with her.
The other thing we are watching closely is the guidelines for summer camps. Evidently day camps may open in the yellow phase, but overnight camps don’t open until we move to green. This directly affects D’s summer plans, and we’re holding out hope for his overnight camp to open so he can be a counselor again this year.
Right before we were shut down, he had also lined up a job at the YMCA, helping with the kids’ camps and sports programs. The overnight camp is only for a few weeks, and they were willing to work around that. I encouraged him to reach out to his contact at the Y and see if his job is still available, but he hasn’t done that yet.
Beyond that, the other benefit of moving to the yellow phase will be feeling more free to hang out with friends. This is the time of year when I enjoy entertaining the most, and we need that distraction now more than ever. I’d also like to have a small 8th grade graduation pool party for R. Right now she’s not feeling much like socializing, but hopefully she will by then.
And that brings us right back to where we started, doesn’t it?
All I can say is, 2020 is a year for the record books and one I do not care to repeat. I will happily bid adieu to the month of May, and I have high hopes for June and July.
I hope you all enjoy the rest of your Memorial Day Weekend, and let us not forget the real reason for the holiday.
Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them. – Franklin D. Roosevelt
I’m so sorry to hear about your second loss. I can’t imagine as a parent how hard that was. Thoughts & prayers are with all of you.
I’ve been through “rehoming” a beloved pet and I can feel your pain. Hugs to all of you.
I’m so sorry to hear of your puppy situation, it is heartbreaking. Glad to hear that things are looking more normal 🤗 My state, NJ, just lifted some restrictions. We’ll be going to a friends this evening for a bonfire, woohoo!!! I pray we keep moving in this direction!
Let us remember what Memorial Day is all about. Thank you to all the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom 🇺🇸
Thinking of you and your sweet family during this time, hoping it’ll start looking up for you soon.
I am so sorry you had to give up Ozzie. He was the cutest dog ever! But you made the right decision. Sometimes doing the right thing feels the worst of all. Let yourselves grieve. And I hope soon your house will be full of happiness and laughter. You have a great family, and you’ll get through it!
What a devastating couple of weeks your family has had. Poor poor Becca. She has my complete sympathy. She sounds like she is handling it beautifully. That is a reflection on you and your husband as parents. In time this will all not feel so raw. Be well.
😢 hugs for you and your family.
So sorry about Paul’s dad. Losing a parent is life changing. I wanted to add my thoughts about Ozzy. You seem like an amazing mom. Your health is vital to your family. I had a mini schnauzer growing up. They are one of the most hypo allergenic dogs. If you guys decide to try another dog again after your emotions have healed, then a hypo allergenic dog is the way to go. When you mix the doodle with another breed and it’s not hypo allergenic, the dog may be more of other breed than your allergies are able to handle. Take care.
I’m so sorry about your father in law, Jo-Lynne! And your doggy and allergy situation. You made the right call of course but oh it is so hard. Your daughter has an incredible amount of maturity and character, and I know she is destined for greatness. My son’s summer plans were wiped out as well. He is an umpire and camp counselor. He actually had been set up to umpire at Cooperstown Youth Baseball Hall of Fame Invitational this year in July and he was so excited. But we have adjusted to that, and so many other things and learning to make the very best of each day. Time for our church online as well. Thank you for this heart touching post.
My heart breaks for your family You’ve had two very different but equally difficult events in your life during a challenging time in all our lives. Time will help to heal. Memories will help to fill the void. Blessings to you all.
I’m so sorry to hear of all you have been dealing with the past few weeks. Thanks for sharing and please know your family is in my prayers. Here in WV, most things are reopening and life is starting to feel more normal. Some churches have reopened and others will do over the next couple of weeks. We are still worshipping online, as church services are on the list of high risk activities.
Being a mom is without a doubt the hardest job but so worth it. Sorry for all you had to go through but know your daughter will be stronger for dealing with the situation. As parents it’s so hard to see your child go through disappointments but we need to prepare them for the real world. My children are grown now and I still hate whenever they have major disappointments but I tell myself they will be so much stronger afterwards. Hope you enjoy the holiday! Love your blog!
My heart goes out to all of you. When you open your home and heart to a new little fuzzy family member, letting go is so difficult. I’m sure you will all grieve and miss little Ozzy, even though you have found a good home and you took time to make the right decision. By no means can you sacrifice your health, of course, but I know this was not an easy call. Bless your heart.
Oh Jolynne, so very sorry for all that you and your family are going through. As painful as it is to rehome Ozxy, I’m sure you made the right decision. If it’s any consolation, I also think you are modeling smart, thoughtful and mature behavior for your children. My sympathies and prayers to you and your family as you mourn the loss of your beloved father-in-law and your puppy.
My heart breaks for you and your family. How awful. I can’t even imagine the physical and emotional turmoil experienced upon realizing that your beloved puppy needed a new home. It sounds like you found a good home for him. Hugs to all of you, especially Becca. I hope you are feeling better too.
Deb
I am so so sorry and shocked that you are allergic to goldendoodles. I thought that they are hypoallergenic dogs, like labradoodles. My heart is breaking for all of you, but especially Becca. Boy, the pool floats look awesome. Do y’all do all of the pool maintenance or have someone do it for you? Hopefully, y’all will get to have some pool time today and tomorrow. I continue to see so many people not wearing masks or social distancing, and I keep hearing people say they need to wear a mask. I so wish more people understood that wearing a mask can help someone like my husband keep from getting sick and possibly losing their life. Is it really that hard to show respect for your fellow mankind? Let’s not be so selfish. I hope this coming week will be much better for your family!
They’re a mix – the poodle is hypo, but the golden is not. Also, he was a product of two mini goldendoodles, so we are unsure what percentage of each he is. We should have held out for a poodle/goldendoodle mix to get more concentrated poodle. I just have never had much issue with dogs, I’ve even been in homes with golden retrievers with no issues, and I didn’t think much about it.
Paul does all the pool maintenance. He enjoys it.
I agree about masks. They are required in PA, so that makes things easier. I know some feel it violates our liberties, and I sorta get it, but it seems like areas where they are optional have so much more angst, and people are shaming others for wearing or not. Here, it’s just a given. You wear it or you don’t go into public buildings, so there isn’t so much strive between people over it.
My heart is broken for you all! You brought Ozzy in just a few days after we got our golden, Eddie. I can’t imagine your struggle in making such a difficult, but necessary decision. It sounds like Ozzy’s new home is an ideal situation, and I hope the girls will continue to see him. Bless your hearts…may the coming days be brighter! ❤️
Im sorry about your pup and your father in law. I had the same fear when we got our dog am month ago. I would be allergic to her, I had a year long fight with my asthma and allergies last year. I didnt want to repeat it. So far its been ok I dont know what i would have done in that position. I worked for the Y of de and they let most of there staff who work with kids go. I have a job so for me its fine. but encourage him to contact them so they know he is still interested and check the website for job posting . The Y is a great place to work. if they like you they will have work all your breaks from school and summers.
Yes, that’s what we heard, and it’s perfect for him with his school schedule. I hope he will follow up and get in there when they open up. It’s a great fit for him, he loves sports and is great with kids, and he has all that camp counselor experience.
Ok so I couldn’t read this coffee talk without crying through the whole thing. I know that was probably not your intention, but I feel for you and your family going through this, and poor Becca… It also brought back the memories of our furry friend and member of our family when we had to put him down due to cancer. ( l felt the guilt in that for sure), but in time realized it would be shelfish to have tried to keep him going as sick as he was. Our daughter is terribly allergic to cats, to a point where she now has to carry an EpiPen, and has had some miserable reactions, that cause her throat to swell, and start to close over. The allergic reaction is almost always followed by an infection. She has become very careful over the past few years and its been a long time since she has reacted.. Basically anywhere there is a cat she cannot go even if its not there… So I completely understand your health issues you would be facing, and you can’t let your own health suffer, as hard as this decision was. We have stores starting to open again this week, like clothing stores etc, on reduced days, and hours, some are requesting Masks to be worn. The dental, physio offices etc, and hair salons, restaurants remain closed. Beaches, and parks, and trails are for walking only.. you can gather with others outside but no sharing food, or drinks, and take your own dishes etc, and food, if your going to be eating. The gatherings are still around 10 I believe, and two families can bubble ( in visiting). I don’t see our gatherings to the max of 25 being lifted until maybe the end of June, or longer… we were suppose to see Michael Buble in concert this past Friday, and that’s been rescheduled until March of 2021. The sun has been shining here for over a week now and the temps are beautiful, and its getting warmer, in fact we have had temps in the 90’s which is unheard of this time of year for us… Its almost like our weather has been switched.. I hope you all have a better end to your weekend, and brighter days ahead for sure . Hugs to you all xo
So sorry to read about your rough week but glad your puppy went to a good home. Our pets become such a big part of our lives and recently found out our cat has diabetes and we’ve had a hard time adjusting to the insulin schedule. We also have a dog and cat is primarily my daughters but I knew a lot of the responsibility would fall on me and it’s been challenging to keep up with the shot schedule. Plus my daughter had 3 wisdom teeth out this week and boy have I had to play nursemaid all weekend. I know that all these things are just part of life, but like you, I feel 2020 has had a lot of sadness and life adjustments. Not only that but now that things are reopening ~ it’s all very different. I had to stand in line outside of Ulta yesterday to return a flat iron and it was 90 degrees and felt even hotter with a mask on. It I know this is the new normal 😞
Oh my gosh I’m SO sorry about your doggy situation. That is devastating! Of course your health is the most important part of this, but I’m sitting here crying for you and your family as I read this update. Have you always struggled with allergies and asthma? I wonder why your other dog’s fur doesn’t bother you? My oh my, so difficult. Wishing you blue skies and sunshine for the rest of your weekend. If you’re looking for a good “page turner” read The Family Upstairs” by Lisa Jewell. It’s a crazy story, but oh so good! Will definitely help you tune out the world around you for awhile.
I’ve always has allergies/asthma with cats. The dog thing developed later in life, and again, I’ve only ever noticed it with pugs. The allergist says “it’s a crap shoot” when you have dog allergies. Some can bother, and some won’t, even “hypo allergenic” types, and all you can do is try and see. I did have mild reaction to Savannah at first, but it went away within a day or two. I’m going to go ahead with allergy testing and maybe even shots, so down the road, we can try again and have a better chance. But I will probably try with a mix of two hypo-allergenic breeds, rather than the poodle/golden mix, although we LOVED that breed. He was so smart and funny. Gosh, I miss him. 🙁
Oh my goodness! I’m so sorry to hear about Ozzy. With all you had going on with Paul’s dad, I’m sure the new puppy was such a source of comfort & distraction. What a heart wrenching decision you made. Praying for your daughter as well….
Yes 2020 has been something else, and I for one, will be glad to close the book on it…..Praying this weekend finds you relaxing and feeling refreshed for the new coming week.
I am sorry to hear about Ozzy. We had a cat many years ago, and I had no allergy issues with her. Then we got a new cat 3 years ago, and my allergies went insane. I got tested and found out that I was off the charts allergic to cats. I was so upset and confused. But I just couldn’t get rid of the cat. So i got allergy shots (no meds were helping). And I am totally fine around her. No problems whatsoever. Just wanted you to know there is another solution rather than rehoming the pet. In any case, it must have been a tough decision. Hugs to all of you.
Jolynne,
What difficult days for you. On top of everything that’s already going on. You sound like you are accepting it all with much grace and courage. There are better days ahead. Be strong. We are all praying for you.
My heart breaks for you. I am so sorry. We just went through this as well. For years my son (14 years old) was allergic for many years. He has asthma as well. The allergist tested him and told him he was not allergic. We figured this was a miracle and he could get a dog that he so desired and prayed for. We bought a labradoodle from California. He was the sweetest and smartest little puppy. His name was Cooper. Elijah started getting sneezy a week after and we started a little preliminary talk. Another week went by and his whole body broke out. He was irritable and not sleeping. We had to make the tough decision after 3 weeks to bring him back to the breeder. It was too hard for Elijah to give him to someone here so I drove him back. We still talk about Cooper (just last October). and wonder why God would allow that when the test said he wasn’t allergic. Its just so hard. Heartbreaking to say the least. I could cry for you guys cause I know exactly what you are going through. I would show my son Ozzy via your instagram and he would ask me every day any new pics of Ozzy. He will be heartbroken for you guys as well. Our family will be praying for you. Also, looks like we have a mutual friend… Sharon Graham. Blessings, Jennifer Budiac
Oh, Sharon and I go way back! Her James and my David are the same age. Thanks for your kind words.
Jo-Lynne,
I’m so sorry to hear about Paul’s dad and Ozzy. That’s more than anyone should have to deal with at one time. We had a similar situation with a golden in October and gave him back to the breeder. I also made myself sick about the decision. It was excruciating for sure, but the right thing to do. I hope you and your family have a great weekend as you continue to heal. Thank you for sharing. 🙏💕
I’m so very sorry to learn about your father in law and to add having to find another home for Ozzy is terribly sad. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry! I’m glad you took a few days to get used to a new normal. I thought you’d been kinda quiet on the socials. I’ve been right where you are, I disappointed my husband who’d worked so hard to find a dog we thought I could live with. I was miserable and that was not fun for either of us. Fortunately our kids were already established in their own homes at this point so I didn’t have the added layer of that to manage. Such an investment of time, energy, emotion, prep and money. I’m sorry!
What a heart breaking few weeks! My sincerest sympathies to your family. I have two mini-goldendoodles and would have gladly taken Ozzy, but it sounds like you have found the perfect place for him. I did break down and buy clippers and did what I could but just found a groomer who would take them and got them clipped short. Praying for better days ahead.
Oh Jo-Lynne! What a difficult thing for you and your family to go through on top of everything else. I’ve heard golden doodles are supposed to be better than some. But when my son got their labradoodle for the reason of his father-in-law’s allergies the vet told them allergies are tricky and it’s just hard to tell. In the end, your health is non-negotiable. So glad you found a great new home for him where he’ll be well taken care of and even available for visits.
I’m sorry you’ve had such a difficult month, on top of an already difficult time in the world. I can imagine how heart breaking it was to give up Ozzy and watch your child suffer. And I’m so sorry to hear about Paul’s dad. I’m in Washington and we’re still in phase 1 stay at home. Hoping to move to phase 2 June 1st, with a few things opening up and groups up to 5 allowed. But salons and restaurants will open up with low capacities. It’s a start! Our church services are still happening on Facebook.
Looked forward to when we can gather together again. I hoe this week brings some unexpected joy back into your life!
I’m so sorry to hear about your Father Nl Law my prayers are with you and your family. I’m so sorry to hear about Ozzy that you had to give him away! I’m sure you found a wonderful home for him. God always provides and gives us exactly what we need. . I hope your children are holding up through all this !
I know God provides and is with us always but I don’t believe that my husband’s passing a few months ago is something He thought “I needed”.
I think she meant that He gives us what we need to get through these hard times. I’m sorry to hear about your husband. xo
I know what it’s like to lose your pet…my Coco had to be put to sleep due to some genetic problems and lost her when she was only 8 months…it’s been a rough May and I’m still grieving.
So sorry to hear about losing your father in law and then having to give up Ozzy. Heartfelt prayers to you and your family.
Jo-Lynne I am so so sorry. As I was reading your post I could hear the direction it was going in. What a nightmare!! The whole thing is heartbreaking for your whole family but especially you because of course as mothers we always feel guilty……even though you could do nothing about it! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Im in the Lehigh Valley and we’ll go to yellow on June5th as well……..cant come soon enough!!
Enjoy a few days of sunshine…that always helps to brighten the mood:)
Oh goodness, I’m so very sorry to hear about all the loss and sadness for your family. I’m catching up with your posts and missed about your husband’s dad. And the continuation of quarantine certainly doesn’t help. I’ll keep y’all in my prayers.
What a emotional and stressful time you’ve had. Sending hugs and prayers that the coming days and weeks are much brigher.
Oh, that plain sucks! I am so sorry for you, for Becca, and for your whole family. Between COVD, losing your father in law, having asthma flare ups from allergic reaction to Ozzie and needing to rehome Ozzie: that’s too much. My heart goes out to you. Please do that day trip to the beach tomorrow and get a break from it all and enjoy Memorial Day. The fresh sea air and change of scenery will do you good. As a fellow asthma sufferer, allergies are no laughing matter and having bronchial infection after infection is nothing to dismiss. You made the right choice. Becca is a credit to you and your husband to take it in stride. Hopefully Becca and Carolyn can drive out to see Ozzie in the weeks to come to visit.
As a Canadian health care worker whose regular job has been “suspended indefinitely” due to COVD, it is a weary topic for us too. I took it for the team being redeployed to help in COVD. I thought it would be short term. Now it is till August and rumors from management till October or even longer. I love my original job, glad to have a job and get paid but this COVD redeployment, working days, nights, evenings, etc….is getting really, really fatiguing and anxiety inducing. I miss my old life, my coworkers and patients. I guess what I am feeling is grief and anger and weariness. Thanks for sharing your private life with us; I feel for you and am sending you virtual hugs from Canada.
Jo-Lynne,
My heart breaks for you and your beautiful family. I am sorry you lost Paul’s father, and now having to give up little Ozzy is awful. But your health comes first and your children are very wise to realize that. My husband has athsma and was tested two years ago. He is very allergic to both dogs and cats, so we cannot have our grand dogs over anymore. It’s sad, but our boys understand. 2020 has been very challenging for us all, but you’ve had more than your share. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope the sun comes out soon there and you can enjoy a beautiful weekend!
I’m very sorry for both losses in your family. Praying God will bring joy back to your hurting hearts very soon. You and your family are very loving, strong and mature. Blessings to all of you.
I am so sorry about Ozzy and the grief your whole family is going through. I have no wise words, just complete sympathy for you all. 💕
My heart and prayers are with you for all you have been going through with your losses and health issues! Prayers for all to be better soon in all situations! The strength and character of Becca and your family handling the Ozzie situation is a testimony to your and Paul’s great parenting! Again, thinking of all of you, too, in the loss of Paul’s father! May you all be blessed in the days ahead!
What a horrible blow about Ozzy! I am heartbroken for all of you. And they are generally pretty low-allergy dogs. I think there is a “second generation” where they breed a goldendoodle or labradoodle with a poodle (thereby getting more poodle) that are even more hypoallergenic. I have always been allergic to cats, but we recently lost a 15-1/2 y.o. cat we’d had since birth and we have a y.o. cat—and they don’t bother me. Go figure. But being allergic myself and having passed it on to my kids and some grandkids, I feel your pain.
So very sorry to hear about this loss too. That’s not easy at all. I’ve had to rehome a pet dog when I was in college. It was best for her and she went to a loving home. It still brings me to tears when I talk about it many many years later. It will get easier and luckily he’s close by for Becca to visit.
So horribly sad about both of your losses. My heart aches for you and the decision you had to make as a mom. Chin up! Sending positive thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry about your puppy! Wishing you all comfort and sunny days ahead. I am in Massachusetts, and we just entered phase 1 of reopening. I’m praying all goes well so that we move through the phases without any setbacks.hoping the same for you in PA!
I am so very sorry about Ozzy. But you did what you had to do. Do you think Savannah is aware she’s gone. Glad you found a good home for her.
So sorry to hear of all your struggles these past weeks. It was obvious in your posts that something was happening in your life. Thank you for sharing with us. Prayers for you and your family. We are hoping in CA to be able to worship in church again next week. 🤞
So sorry for what you’ve been through lately!! Thank you for your transparency in sharing with your readers what’s been going on. I can tell what a truly difficult decision giving Ozzy away was. Glad that you’re beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Oh Jo-Lynn, my heart goes out to your whole family. Such difficult circumstances which would try any family even during the best of times. Wishing you and yours pal race and healing that only time can bring. Take care.
Jo-Lynne, it’s so heartbreaking to see your children upset. It sounds like it’s for the best as you don’t want to mess with your health. I thought goldendoodles were often more hypoallergenic because the poodle part – hair vs. fur but what do I know. Anyway, my point being, I’m sure it was especially disappointing recuse you thought you were all set. I hope you are able to enjoy the rest of the weekend. Thanks for sharing what’s going on in your family.
I am sooo sorry about your father-in-laws’s passing and then you having to give up your new puppy. That is a lot of grief in a short period of time during a very strange season. I hope June brings peace and healing. I think I was more excited about my groomer opening a few weeks ago more then anything!! I had ordered clippers from Amazon but luckily for my dog I did not have to use them. He was such a mess!!
So sorry to hear about Ozzy. I will keep your family in my prayers.
I’m so sorry for the sadness surrounding you and your family. The loss of a parent always difficult no matter the age, health or circumstances. They are still Dad or Mom and their absence is tough. Sweet Ozzy. Oh, I feel this one as I went through similar. I’m happy to hear you are starting to see your norm returning. It will come. Sounds like you are all handling things best as can be expected. 🙏🏻 for all of you.
What a heart-wrenching decision you had to make, but you definitely made the right one to take care of your health especially with asthma. I can only imagine how tough these last few days (weeks) have been for you and your family. Such a blessing that you found the perfect couple to adopt your sweet puppy, I hope there are many fun visits ahead. Sending lots of hugs!!
As if times weren’t sad enough…..so sorry you all are having to deal with this too. Really ready for some good news. And a haircut. Better days ahead.
I’m so sorry about Ozzy! We bond with our pets so quickly and with all the other losses we are living through it is so much harder. Our church opened today with multiple guidelines, but we didn’t attend since numbers haven’t declined much here yet. That has had me crying for days. Church has been a big part of my life for 40 years and to have to choose safety over church just doesn’t feel good. Praying that God makes this virus go away! Glad things are getting better for you!
I’m so so sorry about Paul’s father and your puppy, Jo-Lynne. So heartbreaking to hear. Thinking of you and your family. You are all in my prayers! *Hugs*
I am so sorry for your loss and grief….. Its a lot to take in and just plain sucks: COVD, Paul’s Dad dying, rehoming Ozzy and your asthma flaring up. Hope that you all can enjoy a day at the beach tomorrow. The change in scenery and fresh air will do you good. We all need a light at the end of this tunnel.
I am so sad and sorry to hear about you having to give up Ozzy. I’m wondering how you are able to have the dog you’ve had for so many years. I can’t imagine having to do that with a pet you and especially Becca have become so attached to. It’s better now though than waiting till Ozzy and everyone gets even more attached. I know you would have given him to a good home and ‘m sure she’ll take super good care of him. Becca sounds like a wonderful daughter.
Take care of yourself Jo-Lynne!
I’m so sorry to read this. It must be really heartbreaking. And I fell in love with Ozzy too! I even told people about him. What a blessing though to find a home close by where you can see him eventually. I know you have a lot of burdens and you are in my prayers — all of you. I’m in California where the governor is being totally open to stages but our particular county which demographically largely African American in the west side like Oakland and Richmond — very dense population and Hispanic in the eastern farming area and we are caught in the middle. The death rate in the poor communities is not falling. We are stuck. For now. I was so happy so read it’s getting better there! You are right about 2020! Not my favorite year that’s for sure.
Ugh! What a tough thing you all had to go through. Loss of a parent and your dog. I’m so sorry. Thanks for sharing your ups and downs with us. Prayers from Texas.
So sorry for all you are dealing with. My thoughts and prayers are with your family
I’m in Texas an allowed to attend church but only 25 percent capacity so I’m in my car during live stream then I mask and go in to receive Communion. The pews are half empty and we are all required to wear masks and only families can sit together. The salons have opened and I got my haircut I passed on the blow dry though and wore my mask the whole time, I’m not quite ready to attempt getting a pedicure just yet.
Wow what a month! Hugs to you the family and I’m hoping for a better summer!
Hugs to you and your family!
My goodness Jo-Lynne, you have had an incredibly tough last few weeks. I’m so sorry for the loss of Paul’s father at this time when you can’t gather for a memorial service and to find out you’re allergic to Ozzy at basically the same time is just awful. It does sound like Becca is handling it well. Now is not the time to do anything that puts your breathing at risk, so as difficult as it was to make the decision to rehome Ozzy, it sounds like it was the best choice. I know there are better times for you and your family in the near future. Sending prayers and hugs.
So sorry to hear about Paul’s dad, and poor little ozzy,. hope you all have brighter days ahead.
Oh, Jo-Lynne, I can only imagine how devastating that has been for you all. I’m so sorry. One event alone is emotional enough, but having to deal with them all at once is just too much. I’m glad you are starting to feel some peace, and I pray that continues.
Oh Jo-Lynne, what a difficult time for your family. While reading your post I was tearing up as my little fur baby has been sick for the last couple of weeks and my husband and I are preparing for a difficult decision ahead for us. I pray for your family and I am glad that you are all together as you grieve for Paul’s father and little Ozzy.
So sorry to hear about your puppy. Hope you and the family are able to lean on each other for support, it sounds like a month to forget. Sending big hugs and good thoughts your way.
I am so sorry about your pup, but you had to do what was best for you and your health. I know it was not an easy decision. Glad you were able to find what sounds like a great home for him. Comfort to you and your family. You have had a tough time recently.
Jo-Lynne,
So sad to hear about your family needing to re-home little Ozzy. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts for you and your family as you navigate these difficult sorrows.
My eyes are brimming with tears over your recent losses. These strange new days are so hard and parenting is so difficult sometimes. Time will help heal your hearts.
Sending love,
Becky
I am so sorry for your losses the past two weeks. Your decision was right for your health but I know how hard that had to be. Prayers for brighter days ahead!
Hey there! I’ve been following you for about a year. I live in MN and can identify with you in a number of ways. I enjoy reading your blog. It is clear that you spend a lot of time and energy to put out a good product. Thanks for all your help on casual fashion. It’s real. 🙂
I was so sorry to hear of your recent losses. Losing a parent is a bit like losing a part of yourself. And to lose a furry friend in the way you described is also devastating in its own way. Ugh. I’ve experience both and feel your pain. Hard things become a part of your story as you travel through life. The silver lining is that these shared experiences will make your family stronger. Again, I’m sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your troubles – and amen to your final comment . . .
God bless Jane
I am so sorry to hear about you having to give up Ozzy. He was such a cutie. That must have been so hard. Our attachment to our furry friends runs deep. And again, my thoughts and prayers are with you on the loss of Paul’s dad.
Jo-Lynne I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are so important to our family and I know how heart wrenching this has been for your family. Thinking of you all with the loss of your father-in-law as well. Hugs and prayers as you all continue to heal.
Ugh!!!!! So sorry for what your family is going through. Big hugs to you and Becca.
I am so very sorry, Jo-Lynne, that you all had to give up Ozzy after wanting him for so long. I can’t imagine the heartbreak but I have asthma and for years battled infections, so I know it was the right decision for your health. Sending hugs to all of you.
Heartbreaking to hear of the losses you’re family has experienced of late. Here’s hoping that the summer ushers in some reprieve and happier days for you all.
I couldn’t help but have tears streaming down my face as I was reading this. Life can be really hard at times, watching your family hurt/grieve is heartbreaking. Hang on to each other! Your in my thoughts & prayers.
Oh Jo Lynne, my heart goes out to each of y’all and everything you’ve been going through. Honestly? It choked me up a bit as I could tell from your words how absolutely gut wrenching everything’s been. Hugs.
I am so sorry about your puppy. Our family got a puppy 4 years ago and also had to find a new home for him due to allergies. I don’t think I have ever cried so hard because we had decided to get a dog to help our son through some tough times. He was not the one who was allergic, it was my other son and husband. Hugs to you all as you move forward during these unusual times.