July 15, 2009

White Dog has grown up hearing us tease her with references to The Wizard of Oz since she was born at a kennel in Kansas. So when I arrived home Monday afternoon she had a ready response to my joyous tears as I hugged my family. As she jumped into my lap and squirmed with happiness she barked: "Oh, Auntie Em, there's no place like home!" And she is soooooo right! While I am by no means "cured" (rehab continues at home and will be a long process to regain my health), I feel so much better just being in my own environment able to set my own routine. White Dog and Steve are my cheerleaders as I do physical therapy; my watchful eyes as I attempt to push myself; my helpmates to accomplish what I am not ready to do; and, always, my loving reminders of why I need to work hard toward full health. There IS no place like home--especially when White Dog and Steve are waiting there.