Kylie and Me Growing Old Together

Yesterday Kylie and I went for an early morning walk during a light snowfall. She was a trooper helping me get in my steps and helping her walk off all the treats Mom gives her. The only whine she had was to walk in the street rather than on the sidewalk. There was snow accumulating on the sidewalk but not on the road. Every time I reminded her to get back on the sidewalk she gave me that look. Yes, as Kylie gets older she gets better at giving me the look. I am convinced she is questioning how bright I am since I clearly don’t understand. It is clear that she is not the only one getting older in this relationship.

Kylie is turning 15 years old this week. Mostly she is still my energetic, enthusiastic companion. But I am noticing that jumping on the bed is becoming a bit more challenging. She is not quite as responsive  as she used to be, her hearing and eyesight are dimming and she has definitely broadened her wasteline. Hmmmm I think others would probably say the same things about me. Spending the past 15 years with my sweet maltipoo has been a real joy. She is the sweetest girl, has given us wonderful puppies and sits beside me as I blog each morning.

Life has slowed down for both of us. When Kylie came into our home as a tiny puppy for Natalie’s fourteenth birthday our home was still full with all four of our kiddos at home. The first years Kylie went to my classroom as a therapy dog and even sat on the lap of one of my special ed students as he took the annual exam. We almost wrote it into his individual education plan that he test with Miss Kylie. She calmed him and we were able to get a clearer picture of what he had learned. Now Ron, Kylie and I are empty nesters. The house is quieter and there aren’t any sports or lessons to get the kids shuttled to and from. Kylie and I are enjoying having my mom here with us. Kylie and Mom are content to sit on the couch and snuggle. I am so thankful Kylie is a part of our family and growing old with me.

In Him,
Joyful
2-12-19