A Doggy Day for Emily

This week, I am preparing to take Emily to Canine Companions for Independence.  We check in on Sunday for two weeks of team training.

Emily is so excited.  She jumps and kicks in her wheelchair.  She can barely contain herself.  It's contagious.  It makes something that could easily be a pain with so much to do, something I look forward to.  I still have a lots to get done before Sunday, but it's becoming more of a joy as I watch her excitement grow. 

Like most trips, the packing is tedious, but once we actually get there it will be fun.  It will be nice to have only Emily and her dog to worry about.  I get to check out of my normal day-to-day life for two whole weeks.  Emily is never happier than she is with CCI dogs, so experiencing her joy will be a pure pleasure.  With four children, any time I have the opportunity to focus on only one child it's awesome.  I really like spending time with Emily.  She's funny and smart.  She laughs at just the right moment and has recently developed the word "ewww" which she perfectly inserts in to conversations.  If she can keep her temper in check, I think it will be a wonderful break from normal life for both of us. 

Team training is an intense experience, but our life is usually an intense experience.  I still have so many details to work out; somehow, they always do work out though.  We are waiting to hear about Jeff's new job any minute now.  He may have to leave while we are away, so my contingency plan details have to be worked out too. 

Overall it is exciting; Jeff's mom comes in Saturday to stay with Abby.  Abby is happy about her Maw Maw and Emily is happy about her dog.  Oh how wonderful it is when they are both happy at the same time.  Life just feels a million times easier.   

Speaking of life, I hear it calling me!