Looking In The Mirror

For two weeks, Rob and I were surrounded by 10 0ther families who were also receiving a service dog for their child. Many of us started this journey together.....our children's applications were approved around the same time, we went through the ups and downs of fundraising together and waited semi-patiently together for our child's dog assignments.

Through modern technology, we "talked" for months via the internet. Most of us had never met one another until the 1st day of training, yet when we walked into the 4 Paws facility, we felt as though we were in a room full of old friends who we hadn't seen in awhile.

With each passing day of training, Rob and I felt more and more at home. We were surrounded by people who understand IEP, PT, OT, ST, SDC, SD, ADA, OCD, PDD-NOS, screaming, meltdowns, going limp, sensory seeking, weighted vests and blankets....just to name a few. It's not often that Rob and I get to look in the mirror and see our life in motion through another family.

Rob and I have been surrounded for years by loving family and amazing friends. But for fourteen days, we got to live in the "Bubble" were no explanations were needed and a friendly, understanding smile is given instead of a cold stare. Whenever we go somewhere with Dylan, we feel as though we take half of the house - favorite books, music, DVD's, snacks, drinks, and favorite toys. For once, we weren't alone. Each family had their bag of "tricks". We all wish there was a "Master Key", but there isn't......we carry a whole ring of keys and hope something will work when that "moment" comes.

To the parents of the March Miracles 2009, you are all hero's. You live. You laugh. You fight. You cry. You put on your boxing gloves every day. Many have spent hours upon hours in ER's, children's hospitals, and have had your child airlifted to keep them alive. You've been kicked and hit. But when it's over, you have arms that are ready to give a hug.

Class is over and everyone is home. May each of your lives be full and your path grow less rocky with each new day with your SD!

• Koolio....keep "pawing"......Hannah needs you and you are bringing peace to David & Marcey.


• Bo.....your "special bark" is music to Kevin & Karen's ears....take care of their sweet Christopher!


• Boots....may you have endless hours of fetch with your boy Jason.....but be sure to let Lynne know if he decides to go exploring!


• Fancy.....when Dale decides to go fence climbing, put that nose to good work....Connie & Doug will greatly appreciate it!


• Denali......your girl Aley is a sweet bundle of energy.....give her a good check each day and be sure to let Paige & Sid know if you smell anything questionable....oh, and NO chasing the parrot!


• Shenendoah......you are a bundle of love who is watching dear Kira so closely already....I believe with all of my heart you have a nose that can do great things....give it a shot and Bart & Karin will be forever grateful!


• Holly.....you are bundle of energy....perfection for the duo of Dakota and his sweet sis Cheyenne....with you around, Jen & Steve are sure to experience a bit of relaxation now and then!


• Killian....keep Miss Annabelle out of trouble - she's a clever one who will never bore.....Neil & Heather are counting on you to keep the cell phone bill LOW and keys on the computer!


• Delaney.....Bayleigh is just a love, she just likes to venture here and there.....so be sure to lead Ashley & Cory in the right direction when she goes exploring!


• Jetta.....Christian may stay close to home, but when he's at school, keep that nose on standby.....Erin would greatly appreciate it!

Take care, March Miracles, and enjoy you new guardian angels!