Four Years Ago, Tomorrow.

[Jennifer and Jack]

Four Years Ago tomorrow.. something in the world would happen, something that would change my life forever, only I didn't know it yet.. I was still contemplating getting a puppy. I was still researching... adding my budget.... finding daycares, vets and school prices .. trying to see if getting a dog was in my budget.... (little did I know Jack would be a gift for me)

On this day four years ago.... I knew I wanted a dog but couldn't figure out quite how to justify that money on a "dog" when I could get a "perfectly good one from this lady who keeps dogs in her back yard that would breed any kind I wanted" Oy VEY... 

I have no words to adequately express the love I have for Jack... Jack is a miracle in my life... Jack is the reason when I am tired and don't want to do my treatments that I do them because the thought of leaving him and going into the hospital drives me to the point of insanity.. Jack is the reason I take better care of myself.. Why I can name almost every approved dog food on our list, why I am passionate about dogs, all dogs.. not just doodles.. all dogs.. Jack has opened my eyes to a world I had no clue about.

Jack was my first dog.. He is my only child...  Jack was brought to me as a gift to help ease the pain of not being able to work.... Jack has brought more joy and more worry into my life then any living thing.. I have never loved so deeply....

I find it incredible that on the eve of Jack's birthday, four years later, I was offered a full time job working as an RN at home. by one of my good friends, bosses and director of the hospital... Full time benefits... Full time pay... and I never have to take my oxygen off. I can still wear my PJ's.. I know due to my condition I won't be able to do it for long but I am getting the chance again.... I get to stay home with Jack, do all my treatments, I can work from anywhere in the world as long as I have my phone and lap top..... It is a miracle.... you can bet if I am admitted and able to talk on the phone, I will still be doing my job.

Jack and I have so much to celebrate.... we don't need a lot of reason to celebrate, you see when you know how precious and fragile life and being alive is.. you find cause to celebrate just about anything... 

While I once again am facing a big medical challenge (sigh) .... we are believing it is one that I can manage from home with out patient treatments........and tomorrow, just like every day we will celebrate.. For we are alive and tomorrow we will be together with my mom, Molly and Jack and a few close friends.... We will celebrate that four years ago tomorrow, My little son was born. 

Tomorrow will be all about Jack.. not much different then any other day truth be told..I wouldn't have it any other way.. For Jack and I both live as if it was our last days... I always let him smell the pee where ever he wants... I will always honor him as a dog (except when I make him play dress up for a few minutes) I will honor him and his likes, his desires.. and I will make all his days happy just like looking at his precious face makes me happy.. 

In spite of crap health, I am the most blessed person in the world.. Health is nothing compared to the love I have.... 

Thank you for sharing your life with us.. Your stories, your love, your support, Thank you for allowing me to be an insane mom that comes up with crazy ideas that I think will extend my dogs life. Thank you for accepting me as I am and always keeping the "light on" when I have time to come and check in...

Jack brought all of you to me as well....and I am so grateful... Happy Birthday my sweet baby boy...  

I love you forever and ever.. and treasure every minute I have with you for as long as it is.

IOne more.. this I called..disgruntled birthday boy!

[cheryl & oliver]

hi jen, sry that my typing is not good, i just wanted to say happy birthday to jack, and to congratulate u on your new job...this is just so great for you...and your post was just an inspiration to all who read it...hugs to you an jack today and always...sry for the non caps where necessary, fell and broke my arm in 3 places 5 weeks ago, can't do too much yet...worst part can't be casted because break is into the shoulder...started therapy, the should call this torture, not therapy, but this too will pass...just wanted to let u know that u and jack are on my mind today....cheryl

[Jennifer and Jack]

Cheryl I am so sorry about your shoulder.. I will pray it feels better and that you heal quickly.. How very kind of you to type with all those broken bones.. Just take care of yourself and feel better.

[Star and Goldie]

I don't tend to "favorite" too many discussions or posts on DK but I sure favorited this!  We need a big LOVE LOVE button!!!

Happy Birthday Jack!!!

[Lonnie & Libby Lu]

Absolutely Star!  I second that:)

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Happy Birthday Jack and Conratulations Jennifer on the job!!  This is indeed an auspicious day!

[Jennifer and Jack]

Thank you all so much, you all know how to make a girl feel loved.... Today was so much fun.... Lots of just gratitude for all the people Jack has brought into my life, a lot of reminiscing about the days and weeks before Jack. It was fun, friends stopped by. I for sure appreciate all the love from you guys.. it warms my heart.

I absolutely blew up my facebook page with pictures of Jack. I try hard not to do that as I have such a mixed bag of people on my page.. Today I could not help it.. Here is one more picture.. Then I am going to bed I am exhausted.

Thank you again for making us feel so loved.. This was Jack at his Birthday Breakfast!

[Tara & Scarlet]

What a great story Jennifer....thanks for sharing - Happy 4th Birthday Jack !! (he is so cute)

[Lori, Daphne, Lucy & Pippa]

What a beautiful story! You and Jack are both blessed to have each other. Happy Birthday Jack!

[Oliver & Elizabeth]

Happy birthday Jack! What a great day for both of you to share together!

[Sue & Lily Grace]

Jennifer, you are a beautiful soul. You and Jack were destined to be together and he has completed your heart. I wish you both this birthday and many many more birthdays together. Happy Happy 4th Birthday Jack.

[Stella]

Wonderful news about the job, I'm so excited for you. Happy Birthday to Jack!!