It Is What It Is

Even thought a new year brings lots of goals and new beginnings, some things just get carried over from the previous year. My life lesson, dog-wise it seems, is to just accept the cards I've been dealt. Shiloh and Blitz's illnesses, and my struggles with Moto just keep on keepin' on. My two sick 'uns are really forcing me into the Quality of Life question. Bad days are overtaking good for both of them, although Shiloh is in the lead. I do fear I'll be taking him to the vet very soon to have this discussion. It's just been hard.
As for my beloved Moto, training goes up and down. He has really, really good days followed by several weeks of - it's not fair to say bad - but rather "I just don't care to do this" days. We are currently in that mode. When he's like this, there really isn't anything to do to get him out of it. With Obedience, he does do it, but he's not having fun. There's no stress, he just doesn't LIKE it. Ditto herding. He'll follow along politely behind the sheep but again he's just doing it to be a Good Boy. And he IS a good boy. A really good boy! As you can see from the picture he is wonderful with Pinch, and is equally as sweet with my old boy Dusty. Being a Therapy Dog truly is his calling and where his passion lies. So that's what I need to accept: I'm not going to have a dog that is going to set the performance world on fire. I have a dog that is going to be my Best Friend, the one I can count on to always be by my side when times are tough. The one to be gentle and sweet and play with my grandkids, whom I can take anywhere and he will be good and kind to all dogs and puppies.
As it was with Blitz, it's a death of sorts because I have to let go of dreams and plans. It's not an easy transition. But loving them for who they are and accepting the gifts they give me does eventually make it easier on all of us.
I still plan on bring Moto out in the spring in Novice. But I no longer have expectations. Of course I want him to qualify but it wouldn't be fair to either of us for me to expect more than a green ribbon.
When I hug him and look into his sweet happy face I know I've made the right choice. It is, what it is.