Timmy E. ready to start class!

The school mama chose is called The Right Steps and was recommended by a number of chums plus our vets at Blue Ravine Animal Hospital.  The instructor, Cindy, allows only 6 pups per class — you can see this is very exclusive training!

Timmy has only met a few other dogs and mama thought he might be a barker, as he does bark when he sees other dogs.  As they were approaching the classroom, Timmy woofed at the other students but once they entered, he was completely silent.  Good boy!

Folding chairs lined the room and the class was instructed to spread out, giving each pupil a little personal space.

Max, an extremely hyper and vocal toy Australian Shepard, had to stay behind a screen as he was upsetting the other dogs.  Poor Max — he was just really excited to be there.  Next to Timmy sat a Golden Retriever named Bentley, who was so shy he barely came out from under his parent’s chair.

The other puppies in attendance were Sophia, a tiny miniature Dachshund, Rufus the Great-Dane mix and Sejean, a Husky who was the star pupil of the day.

Lessons for the first class were learning to “sit”, “come” and how to play nicely with new friends.  Timmy, like me, excelled at the social part of the class and he was eager (without barking) to meet and sniff his classmates.

Learning is exhausting work and towards the end of class, Timmy E was having a hard time keeping his eyes open.  He slept the entire ride home and even had a late dinner, as he couldn’t wake from his post-class nap.

Post-class nap time!

Mama and Timmy have loads of homework this week.  I’d like to help from my heavenly place, but to be truthful I wasn’t the greatest with my doggie school lessons.  I may even  have been the first canine to claim “the dog ate my homework” in puppy kindergarten!

Have you pups gone through any formal training, obedience or agility training?  I’d like to hear about your experiences.

Sending you peace, wags and heavenly love!

Didn’t we address this topic over 50 years ago?

I can dress like a woman, that doesn't make me one and I won't decide their personal health issues

Today, some members of Congress (all Republican, by the way) held a hearing about the recent brouhaha surrounding birth control.  This furry angel is concerned and pawplexed for a number of reasons. Why is the committee comprised of men?  Why  was the first batch of witnesses made up of humans who cannot give birth (men!)?  Why were no dissenting witnesses allowed to testify?

Women’s health issues being debated and decided by men — Sounds like 1912, not 2012 to me.  It’s like a pack of dogs making life decisions over a flock of hummingbirds.  I know that’s a strange analogy but dogs know nothing of the inner-workings of delicate birds and Rep Darrell Issa (R) knows nothing about women.

Religious fanaticism is on the rise within a faction of our society and even our government.  Stripping women of their rights to access safe and affordable birth control and abortion services is relinquishing rights that women fought for decades ago.

We’ve seen how religious fundamentalism from the government level influences society — just look at the Taliban.  Instead of burkas, perhaps these Republicans will have women wear “freedom frocks” or a “liberty wrap”.  Really people, these men want to control women from conception to death and this dog is frustrated, furious and frightened.

Men like Issa and Santorum are against insurance coverage for birth control pills and devices yet they must be just fine with coverage for E.D. medications like Viagra, since it has never been mentioned.  So, in their minds men have the right to get randier while women have no say in whether they want to conceive or not.

Women’s health is taking a backseat to extreme ideology.  To this thoughtful pup, rule of thumb should be if you don’t have a uterus, you don’t get to make decisions about women’s family planning and women’s private health matters.  Simple and obvious.

Little Timmy Elijah Love sees no love in the GOP's attack on women's rights

Friends — woman friends — vote with your lady parts.  Do not give away your own God-given power to make your own personal decisions.

I’ll close with a few facts from the Guttmacher Institute on reproductive health:

• There are 62 million U.S. women in their childbearing years (15–44).

• Seven in 10 women of reproductive age (43 million women) are sexually active and do not want to become pregnant, but could become pregnant if they and their partners fail to use a contraceptive method.

• The typical U.S. woman wants only two children. To achieve this goal, she must use contraceptives for roughly three decades.

• Virtually all women (more than 99%) aged 15–44 who have ever had sexual intercourse have used at least one contraceptive method.

• Overall, 62% of the 62 million women aged 15–44 are currently using a method.

• Almost one-third (31%) of these 62 million women do not need a method because they are infertile; are pregnant, postpartum or trying to become pregnant; have never had intercourse; or are not sexually active.

• Thus, only 7% of women aged 15–44 are at risk for unintended pregnancy but are not using contraceptives.

• Among the 43 million fertile, sexually active women who do not want to become pregnant, 89% are practicing contraception.

showing mama some love a few years ago... I miss being able to kiss her!

For us precious pooches every act, every breath is running through a filter of love.  You know all that fur that some dogs shed?  Think of it as furry fairy-dust, sprinkling love all over your house!  I bet you have a different perspective about your shedding pet now, don’t you?

John and Paul said “love is all there is” and they were right.  One of the marvels of my transition has been to commune with others who have left the earthly plain.  And, I must say, that I never thought I’d have the chance to witness John Lennon compose angelic love songs, but I have.  If you thought his compositions were grand down there, you should hear what he’s come up with since his passing!

Love is a snuggle.   Love is what I feel every time my tail wags (which is constant).  Love is the happiness you feel when a friend succeeds. Love is food.  Love is in sunshine and rain clouds and every blade of grass your puppy relieves himself on.

Timmy Elijah Love loves his brother Wilbur

Love is romantic.  Love is ever-lasting.  Love is your pack of friends.  Love is in your paycheck.  Love vibrates through the music you adore.  Love is your neighbor and even your enemy.

Love is Everywhere!

Love is waiting for you at the pet adoption center near you!

If you are considering adding a much shorter member to your family, there’s no day like love day to make

Adopt a furry bundle of love at your local shelter!

your move.  A furry bundle of joy is waiting for you — waiting to share his abundant love with you every moment.

Even though I’m no longer with mama physically, she feels my love constantly as I feel her love reaching up to me.

Open your hearts to the love that surrounds you, peeps!  I love all of my FOA’s and hope you feel that in the deepest part of yourself.

What does Valentine’s Day mean to you?  How do you define love?

I’ve been taking notes, and these are my initial observations:

Happy, energetic puppy!

• Timmy is so flexible and limber… ah, youth!  He runs and slips and trips and tumbles, all with a wag and a puppy smile.  Actually, “run” is not the best description.  He bounces and pounces like a bunny.

• Like moi, Timmy is food-obsessed.  Not a great quality, but typical for our breed.

• Timmy is a natural fetcher.  He loves to chase the ball and he actually brings it back to mama for another round…again & again.  He’s such a sweet pup that he often presents the ball to Wilbur, dropping it in front of him.  Timmy’s a natural born giver.

• I’ve always been an extroverted chap, happy to meet and greet anyone.  Timmy, on the other paw, is a bit shy around new people and practically attaches himself to mama’s leg.  I think it’s cute and charming.  Mama’s friend Karin calls Timmy “velcro dog”.

• Although a bit reserved when making introductions, Timmy is fearless.  He will push a door open
  

  Fearless Fido!

  without knowing what’s on the other side (something Wilbur won’t do).  He climbs and jumps with confidence.  Grandma’s backyard has huge granite outcrops and all of us pups love to climb on the biggest one and play king of the mountain.  Never have I witnessed a dog leap off the boulder until Timmy.  Instead of cautiously walking down the rock like a billy goat, Timmy took a running leap and landed in a bush!  Remarkably, mama had her finger poised on her camera to document this feat.

• Timmy is a love-bug… a snuggler extraordinaire, you might say.  He loves sitting on mama’s lap, laying next to her using her as a pillow and sleeping with a paw draped over Wilbur.

• Timmy’s puppy energy, curiosity, love and zest for life are contagious and my family is feeling joyous and inspired again.

Puppy love… it really is one of the sweetest love affairs any creature can experience.

I want to hear about your puppy stories.  Tell me what your dog was like as a youngster.  Or your cat (I never discriminate!).  See you around the water bowl, friends.

What's that? Something just zapped me!

You see, young Timmy channels some of my spiritual energy in a shocking manner.  Nearly every time mama touches Timmy they both feel an electric shock.  Some peeps would overlook this phenomenon as simply static electricity…but it’s not.

What they are physically experiencing is my energy…my electrical current touching them tangibly.  Timmy is perplexed when I do this and he frantically looks around for the source.  Mama clearly understands and with each charged jolt, she smiles wider.

We’re all made up of energy, right?  And just because I’m not on earth any longer doesn’t mean my energy has vanished.

I refrain from interjecting my energy when mama and Timmy are enjoying relaxing petting time.  Of course, I’d love to be in the middle of that love-fest but I understand that they need some special bonding without my intervention.  And this takes a bit of serious restraint on my part.

I’ve been cavorting with other furry angels and each has a special way of communicating with their earth-bound family.  Unfortunately, yet understandably, some folks are too deep in their grief to recognize the signs from their transitioned loved ones.  I encourage all souls to be open to messages of love from all realms…to look beyond their pain and open their hearts to the unseen.

No one escapes the loss of a loved one.  It’s part of the cycle of love — if we open ourselves, we are vulnerable to feelings of loss and sadness.  But the alternative is the only truly dead state.

FOA’s, I’d love to hear how you experience your transitioned loved ones.  Are you open to their guidance, support and love?  Do you have fear of opening our heart again to a soul who is physically gone?

Crate-Gate

who throw money around for attack advertisements?)  This quickly formed group of canine crusaders is furious about what is being called “Crate Gate”.  Have you heard about this story?

The Boston Globe first reported on this travesty back in 2007 and now that Mr. Romney is the GOP frontrunner, the story is gaining legs.

Some years ago, when Mitt Romney had a full litter of his own babies at home, the family was on a 12 hour road-trip to Canada with their Irish Setter, Seamus.  The Romney clan will not verify details, but this much is known:  Poor Seamus was tied to the roof of the family station wagon for the 12 hour drive!!

Until this story, I had never heard such an awful tale (or tail) of disrespect towards a canine family member.  I say disrespect because “animal abuse” sounds so harsh, but I suppose in this time of candidate’s full-disclosure, we shouldn’t sugar-coat such acts.

Can you imagine having the mindset that thinks it’s ok to strap a dog to a moving vehicle for 12 hours?  If you wouldn’t trust a man to watch your dog, you probably shouldn’t trust him to watch over your country.

Political pups are uniting across the country to bring light to this awful abuse of trust.  Yes, we doggy children trust in our humans to care for us as they would care for a small child.  Do you think Willard (Mitt’s given name) would tie one of his own human children to a car rooftop?  I shudder to think of the answer.

Even worse, it is reported that out of fear Seamus dirtied himself on that rooftop and at a service station Mr. Romney took a hose and washed down the car and the dog (while still strapped to the roof!).  What sort of person treats an eternal soul this way?

Aunt Edna rides on the roof in this comedy

This scene, while horrifying, makes me think of the iconic “National Lampoon’s Vacation” movie where they tied their deceased Aunt Edna on the top of the car.  (If you’d like to relive the hilarity of the moment from the movie, click here.)  Sure, it’s funny when Chevy Chase behaves this way in a sophomoric (albeit, funny!) movie, but a man who wants to be POTUS?

Furry angels like myself, look down (quite literally!) on this type of abusive behavior.  Little does Willard know that his millions of dollars in tithing to his church doesn’t make up for this incident.  He must openly admit his animal abuse and apologize.  I’ve met Seamus and he doesn’t think Romney is fit to President (or dogcatcher).

I Ride Inside

“I Ride Inside” is the motto for Dogs Against Romney.  Who else is joining this pawesome pack?

baby Timmy Elijah Love

I must say that I am enjoying observing mama and new baby Timmy Elijah from my lofty perch.  It warms my heart to see her genuinely smile again.  My transition was hard for mama and it took her a few weeks to fully grasp the bigger picture of my existence and my exit from her physical realm.

Just like all of you, I am an eternal soul with lessons to teach, lessons to learn and a purpose.  My earthly purpose was chosen before I was ever birthed, and I knew who I would have as my mama.

When I first came into mama’s life she desperately needed a guardian angel to affirm her life and bring her back to herself.  Those times were so difficult for her then, that she required her angel to be tangible (and preferably furry) to make her believe again… in herself and in the benevolence of the Universe.  Little did she know, I fully understood this and I had a mission.

My earthly life seems short to some, but I accomplished more than many souls do in a lengthier stay.  Mama needed inspiration to make some major changes in her life and to get her through some very difficult circumstances.  Atticus to the rescue!

Through my love and encouragement mama started to find herself again.  I helped her find the strength to leave an abusive marriage (note: the abuser actually kicked me a few times and I think this put mama’s world in better perspective for her).  There was no way she would allow someone to hurt me, and we escaped.

Reminding mama of her worth and confidence took a little time, as those qualities had been eroded by an angry, hurtful husband.  It’s hard for many to understand how a woman with great successes under her belt and a bounty of loving friends could find herself in such a marriage.  But these things happen and these types of relationships are slow to reveal the insidiousness of the abuser.

Safely away from harm, the next hurdle was helping mama through the death of her beloved father.  And then assisting her to regain her entrepreneurial spirit and her unique voice.  I certainly had a mission, and I accomplished it on all fronts.

My job was actually complete a year ago and for a full year I found myself in precarious health situations, ready for my departure.  Mama wasn’t ready for me to leave and she valiantly fought to keep me here.  But it was my time.  My mission had been fulfilled and I am needed elsewhere.

Sporting my angel look while on earth

Happily, mama now fully understands that I was on a mission and she is eternally grateful for the years we spent together.  I smile and wag as I watch her pour her love into little Timmy, Wilbur and Bella, knowing fully that I am always with her as well.

Furry mission fulfilled!

Giving from the heart is an attribute that mama has held since she was a little person and she didn’t need guidance from me on that point.  I was just the happy recipient of her bountiful love and gifts, but she was lacking in how to receive graciously.  Sure, she was able to receive my sloppy kisses and my abundant joy, but in the more traditional sense, mama has not been good at receiving.

Baby Timmy Elijah and Wilbur receiving mama's love

I know I’ve talked about this in previous posts and I think it’s a topic that needs to be revisited.  Mama has been forced to face this deficiency in herself this year, and this was my final gift and lesson to her.

When I was ill this summer and had emergency surgery, FOA’s started sending cards and checks to help with my medical bills.  Our friends at SacPaws even reached out to find specialists and experts for my care.  I felt fine receiving support and love in it’s various forms, but mama was reluctant and unsure how to act.

I was able to coach her along and remind her how good it feels to give freely and that she cannot deny others that same glorious feeling.  The universe has properties that are set in stone, and one of those properties is to continue putting situations before us until we finally learn the lesson.

And since mama had not been fully educated on the art of receiving, the universe (and her furry angel) continued to throw circumstances and people her way to challenge her growth.  After my transition, the support coming mama’s way was a tidal wave of love that could not be ignored and, I’m happy to say, she’s starting to get it.  Did she have a choice?

Lisa sharing her laughter & love

Our dear FOA and close confidant of mama, Lisa Maslack, has taken giving to a whole new level through my issues.  Lisa has been a great friend — one of those people who always listens with her heart and laughs with a snort.  These past weeks, she has demonstrated her support and love for us with big, swooping gestures.

Lisa started a donation site to help with my medical bills.  As you know, mama insisted the doctors go to every length to try to keep me here on earth, and the expenses grew quickly.  When all was said and done, mama had incurred almost $13,000 in vet debt and Lisa, being a friend of action, was compelled to do something.

And, had it not been for Lisa’s generosity, Little Timmy would never have come into mama’s life.  Mama is filled with gratitude and finally able to accept being on the receiving end of goodwill.

Mama can see the immense joy that Lisa experiences in giving of herself, her time and her resources.  How can mama possibly deny her friend all of this joy?

And, with gratitude, I say that this is the lesson, friends… Receive as fully and open-heartedly as you give.

Timmy happily receiving kitten love

Little Timmy Elijah Love

Once mama came to the conclusion that she must adopt this new little guy she started pondering names.  Her first inclination is always towards personally meaningful, literary or cultural names.  Names that immediately came to mind were Aramis, Amadeus and Sirius (notice the cadence of all are in sync with Atticus — no coincidence!)

Backtrack one month… An FOA I met through twitter (a gloriously centered and spiritual soul — @OneLoveOneEarth) had emailed mama telling her that her son had some insights on the night of my transition and when mama was ready, she wanted to share.  We’ll come back to this storyline in a moment…

During a road-trip last weekend, the name Timmy kept coming into mama’s mind.  It made sense because both mama and I have a deep love and respect for young Timmy Lincecum, ace Giant’s pitcher and 2-time Cy Young award winner.  As you FOA’s know, mama has been a diehard SF Giant’s fan since she was a wee child and Timmy holds a special place for her.

Timmy Lincecum

Our “freaky” pitcher stands for so much more than award and World Series Championship winner.  For us, Timmy Lincecum is a beacon of hope and resiliency.  Proof that an underdog — a skinny, scrawny, long-haired kid — is capable of indescribable greatness.  A strong name indeed, but others thought it was a little silly and not dignified enough.

As mama was driving, she was listening to her beloved Chris Robinson Brotherhood and grooving to their rendition of the old classic, “Poor Elijah”.  Then when she switched to the radio, can you guess what song was playing?  Eric Clapton’s version of Poor Elijah!  Lightbulb moment!  His name will be Elijah.

Now, getting back to my twitter friend… Mama came home to a long email from @OneLoveOneEarth and mama felt my spirit moving in the universe.

“December 12^th, before bedtime, my son (Timmy) – who is six and VERY aware and intuitive – said some very interesting things.  He said it was a very special “angel day.”  To us an “angel day” is a day to honor someone’s passing.  Timmy is very passionate about Jesus (100% his own truth and took me completely by surprise a few years ago) and is curious about “Jesus’ friends who are now angels.” “

“He told me that night (December 12th) a very special angel was being born.  Timmy that the special angel was going to the Light because he believed in the Light.  He said the angel’s family believes in the Light too – and that they’d be sad – but they should be happy because the new angel would be very happy.”

Sweet baby

Blimey!!  Little Timmy’s revelations were spoken at almost the exact time of my transition!  And Mama had no idea of our friend’s son name.   It immediately made sense to mama… I was driving this decision from the heavens and she got it!  Timmy Elijah Love.

They say the universe works in mysterious ways.  But it’s not such a mystery when there’s a furry angel keeping watch.

Last week was the one month anniversary of my transition and I pushed mama in a direction that will change her life.  She felt me around her that entire day, even poking her head of the shower from time to time expecting to see my on the bathmat.  (I always lounged on that mat while mama showered, just to keep her company, and I still am.)

Just as mama was compelled to watch that recorded episode of Live with Kelly (compelled is an earthly term — she receiving heaven-sent nudges from me), she felt the need to reach out to my breeder in Canada and inquire about upcoming litters.  Mama was only interested in a solid red male puppy (like moi! — good choice) and fully expected to wait awhile.

As the universe conspired to heal mama’s heart (with a little help from me), a solid red puppy was available.  Not in Canada, but in Northern California only 30 minutes from home!  It helps to have angels in your corner to achieve the impossible!

Needless to say, within days a new little pup was added to my family and named Timmy Elijah Love.  A

baby Timmy

strong and meaningful name in my book.  Timmy is not a replacement for me — clearly I’m irreplaceable! — but he is helping to heal mama’s heart and provide the physical puppy love that mama craves.

The story behind the naming of this youngster will bring chills and goosebumps… it’s that poignant and amazing!  And I will save that story for my next post, so stayed tuned.

I know that mama misses her snuggles with me and my physical presence, but I am always with her and she feels me every moment now.  Grief and loss are not simple emotions to navigate, but with the knowledge that all souls are eternal, healing and growth will appear.

I'm happy to see Timmy is playing with my toys (well, sleeping on them)

I am soulfully still with my mama and all my FOA’s.  I hope you leave this post knowing that a furry angel is watching over you and pulling a few strings.  Peace and wags to you, friends.