Losing Fortis this week was such a devastating blow to our community, and to me.  For some reason I seem to take it extra hard when the "Big Dawg" (Titan, Tazzie, Fortis, etc.) journeys come to an end, perhaps it's because being King/Queen size like my big girl it just hits extra close to home.  I've spent this week being very clingy with Nova. We never really DO know when our pup's journey will end, do we? It could happen to any of us, as any time. Argh

I know that's kind of a sad note to start on when I'm here to announce a very happy occasion. Today is Nova's 26-month ampuversary!  I have to admit, I feel a little guilty announcing it, I almost considered not doing it at all, or at least putting it off. It seems so unfair that Nova has been so blessed in this journey while others have suffered so. It's just so unfair. But after thinking about it, I came to the conclusion that if I had lost Nova long ago, I would still be thrilled to hear others' good news and to know that other Tripawds were thriving. So here we are.

Unfortunately I had to be gone much of the day today, so we didn't get around to a full "fit for a Queen" celebration yet.  But we will very soon, since Nova's 7th birthday is a little later this month.  There is nothing out of the ordinary to report on Nova other than that she continues to thrive wonderfully.  No health problems at all, no evidence of cancer spreading. Although I really don't know for sure, because I haven't had chest x-rays done in months.  I decided long ago that I was not going to do them again unless she started to have problems that made me suspect the cancer had spread.  Everything has been so normal that sometimes I forget she ever had cancer.

She is still the laziest butt ever, spending most of her days lounging on her bed or on the couch, or snuggling with the nearest human or her favorite stuffies, or being a lap dog. She is such a lovable girl, and so very, very happy.  Even as a totally blind Tripawd.  We haven't been to the vet in forever, other than for routine stuff. It feeling great to not be coughing up $$$ at the vet on a weekly basis over the latest health scare. We've had none. Her appetite is great, in fact it seems she wants to eat more than ever.  She likes to play in the snow, and bark at the birds, and people as they walk by. And as always, she is very opinionated and doesn't hesitate to communicate her needs and wants through barking, whining, and "talking" in that language some Dane owners call "roo-roo".

I'd also like to pause for a moment to remember and honor our fellow "November Five (2008)" warriors, who have a very special place in my heart and always will.... Spirits Tika, Max, and Cherry.... and living warrior Trouble and mom Shanna, who we continue to walk/hop with in this journey to KICK CANCER'S BUTT for as long as we can, inspire new and current Tripawds, and give them hope that following in our pawsteps IS possible.

Peace, love, and beef trachea to all!

DOG SAVE THE QUEEN!

Sue and Queen Nova