Boy Georgie

One of those things that people often don't think about missionaries giving up when they move overseas is their pets and the ability to have a pet. Even if you're a long term missionary, you often travel a good bit or have a demanding schedule that makes it difficult to have a pet. Another thing to factor into the equation is that so many of us live in apartments, so if you're a dog lover, it makes things much more difficult. Leaving my dog to move overseas was much more difficult than selling my car or any of my possessions. I felt terribly guilty about abandoning this poor creature with all of his fears. And now after being gone three years, I've returned to a dog that is now classified as "geriatric." WHAT?? When did he get old? Oh, that's right- when I left. Right as I was leaving he was bit by a tick and got Lyme disease, which led to arthritis in his joints. Now I look at him and see a much slower dog whose hair is whitening more around the face. And though he still has plenty of energy, he's definitely slowed down. So today's post is in honor of my poor neurotic Georgie, who in spite of all his fears, has been a great and loyal companion. Today he has been out in the garden helping out my dad.....by eating the grubs. At least he's useful! =-D

With his beloved squeaky football.

Not too many children play in the sandbox these days, but he sure does like it!