So Much...

...I've been away from my computer for a few days, so I have SO much to catch up! So...turns out Jack is having kidneys problems. When I called the vet Tuesday for his results, he said Jack was in chronic renal failure. Knocked the wind clear out of me. Had to drop him off to hospitalize him overnight. Bad timing with my trip to VA, but I have some of the most amazing friends...they really stepped in to help! Jack was hooked up to an IV (had to get the 'cone of shame' put on because he chewed through 2 lines!). He's now on a couple of meds and I even had to learn to administer the 'sub q' treatments (basically I have to shove a big needle under his skin so he can get some much-needed fluids). I lost sleep worrying about it...I'm terrified of needles myself so this was pretty scary for me. I asked God to guide my hands so that I wouldn't hurt him. I made it through today (and so did Jack) pretty well...thank God! So this is probably something I'll have to do for the rest of his life (and a special kidney diet). My poor little man...I love him so much and I hope he sticks around for a while longer.
I had a fantastic trip visiting my sister and Grant in VA. The drive down was pretty painless but for a short distance close to Woodbridge. Hung out eating a fantastic meal made by Kieran (she really is a fantastic cook!) and met their neighbors Linda and Bob. Wednesday was "Warrior Day" on the base, and I have to say it was an awesome experience for me. We got to tour the base and see some of the things that go on. Watched a helicopter landing and were able to get on it; studied the guns/weapons; saw the tanks/vehicles and also got to watch a martial arts presentation. It was COLD, which made me appreciate the physical challenges these marines must endure during their training. Also got to eat in the chow hall (and saw so many more marines...yes, I was like a kid in a candy store!). Also saw the wall dedicated to some of the recent marines who graduated and who have lost their lives in service to our country. It was such a humbling experience. I have always had the utmost respect for those who serve our country, but I left there with a much deeper respect and reverence for these men and women and all of the sacrifices they make for us.
Toured the Marine Corps Museum Thursday before lunch (at Globe: Laurel, a famous restaurant that caters to the marine community and is like a museum in its own right) with the graduate and family.
The drive home Thursday was horrific! Did about 15 mph on 95 for about 4 hours! Left at 2pm and made it home just before 9pm. Boy...was I glad to see Jack and CJ!
While I was gone I was also humbled and greatly touched by the kindess of my friends who took such great care of my boys. Mere and Steph picked Jack up from WCVH Wednesday night and took care of him Thursday morning before they had to leave for work. They had to deal with giving meds, feeding, cleaning up a TON of pee, and who knows what else. Saints they are...I don't know what I'd do without them! Erin came down a few times to check on the boys, and Andy came down as well to give them some company.
I'm amazed at how willing my friends are to help and am SO so blessed to have such selfless people in my life. I'm also extremely blessed to have an amazing family whose support is abundant and never ending.

Back to the vet yesterday and today (for more bloodwork) and caught up on a few things (wash was a big one...Jack peed on everything!). Had a great meal (breakfast!) tonight at Bob's Diner with Erin & Krysta...a 'last meal' of sorts for Krysta, who will be getting induced this time tomorrow!
As I'm typing this, I'm looking at my precious, 14 year-old baby Jack sleeping on his freshly washed pillow, and feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love. Night night peeps....