Monna Lainson Designs

Friday, December 19, 2008

I'd like you to meet Izzy!

About this time a month ago, our beloved 13 year old Aussie, JJ, started failing. The diagnosis was one no pet owner ever wants to hear - chronic renal failure. We tried everything to save her - IV therapy, lots of drugs, special diets - everything the vet could suggest save dialysis, which is not available in these parts. Her poor old body was just giving out, and the vet likened her to a 90 year old woman. So, after a long and brave struggle on her part, and much anguish on our part, we did the only kind thing left to do - we let her slip peacefully away.

Our hearts were broken. I have never known a more incredible, devoted dog. She was at my side every waking minute, and I know I will miss her till the day I die.

Knowing I couldn't imagine life without an Australian Shepherd in it, I contacted the Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline, Inc. There were two interesting candidates on their website, but one was already spoken for, and the other did not exhibit true Aussie traits. I thought it was wonderful of the them to be so honest with me. We decided to wait, and knew that one would find US when the time was right.

Then, a few days later, I got an email about a two year old female close to St. Louis that desperately needed a new home. I thought to myself...hey, we need an Aussie and she needs a home! Sounded like a match made in heaven!

We made the long trip, fell in love with her, loaded her in the car, got to meet my good friend Osten aka the Dude, spent some enjoyable time at his house, and drove back home all in a weekend!

Izzy, as her name became, has filled our lives with joy. And she has certainly kept us busy! LOL She's a bundle of energy and curious about every little thing. Typical of an Aussie, she is a "velcro" dog and wants to be right at our feet or by our side. And that's okay with us :)

As promised, I'd like to share some pictures of her with you. Ahem..please pardon the box of Christmas decorations still in the living room. :) What she lacks in coat, she makes up for in temperment. Such a sweet dog and so eager to please. Something tells me JJ is looking down and encouraging Izzy along. At least, I like to think so. And we are blessed.






And to thank you for visiting my blog and meeting Izzy, I'd like to offer another couple of coordinating pieces to Happy Holidays. Thank you SO much for visiting and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you and yours!



DOWNLOAD HERE

16 comments:

Kessa said...

Izzy is gorgeous. I love the Australian Shepherds. My cousin in Germany has two and she says they are the sweetest natured dogs she has ever known. I chose Australian Kelpies myself as we have such hot summers I thought they would be better suited having the shorter coat.

Kessa said...

Oh - thank you also for your gift.

Josie said...

Izzy sure is a real looker and sounds like everyone is happy! Thanks for the QP!

Anonymous said...

She is a cutie! We have a minpin which we adore - never thought I could love a dog as much as this guy! And over the holidays, we are pet-sitting two dachshunds for a friend - talk about a herd of dogs! We certainly are in no danger of getting bored.

It's wonderful when you find the perfect dog, and I'm so happy you did. Have a wonderful Christmas!

Anonymous said...

Monna, Izzy is beautiful! She has such sweet looking eyes! I'm so glad it worked out for you all to get together! Thank you for the wonderful freebie!!!

Mollie said...

Thanks for the gorgeous QP Monna. And Izzy is one fine looking dog:)

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the extra pieces!

Unknown said...

She's sweet! So nice that you have a new family member that is fitting in so well. Thank you for the gift!

Anonymous said...

So glad to meet Izzy. She certainly looks loving.
And thanks to you and Izzy for the additional pieces to your wonderful kit.
Joan

Anonymous said...

Oh, she is just beautiful. I'm another who can't imagine life without a dog.

marilyn

amsangel said...

What a beautiful dog and a great Christmas present!!

(thanks for the QP!)

LindaJD said...

What a lovely dog, I am sure you will all be very happy and get along so well together..
and a Big Thank You for your lovely Gift :)
Linda

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful dog!! Thank you for sharing pictures and for the qp goodie!!

Anonymous said...

oops, hit send too soon!! It didn't get my name on it! Carolyn

Christie said...

Izzy is so pretty, thanks for sharing her with us all. What a wonderful Christmas girt for you all.

Thanks for the wonderful QP too

Merry Christmas

Linda Walton aka bobbysgirlforever said...

Monna, again I am just THRILLED that you, Eric and IZZY and found each other and I wish you all MANY, MANY years of HAPPINESS together!

Thank you for the LOVELY gift too girlfriend. If I hang out for a little longer, I just might catch you arising!!!

I spent most of the day getting out Christmas decorations (finally!) and doing some cleaning. I just finished posting to my blog a bit ago as it was my oldest daughter's birthday today. They are getting quite a bit of snow in Washington and she sent me some photos that I need to post as well, perhaps when I awake!

I hope y'all are not TOO cold, but then something tells me you are. I just read a blurb about the winter weather hitting both ends of the US!

Have a LOVELY Sunday sweetie and I hope to catch up with you soon!

Love and hugs,
Linda :)