The Christmas countdown is definitely upon us...with baking to do, shopping to finish, gifts to wrap and plenty of entertaining ahead of us (all good stuff), we have a little confession to make. We have already received our Christmas gift.

 As many of you know, Hampton was diagnosed in October with lymphoma. After shedding many tears and contemplating a treatment plan with our vet, we made the decision to start Hampton on chemotherapy. We are thrilled to report that after two full rounds of chemo, he is in remission.  An added bonus was that he did not get sick from the treatments, he hasn’t lost any weight (in fact the added venison, treats and table scraps have added a few extra pounds but the vet says that’s a good thing) and he hasn’t shown any signs of lethargy or slowing down at all. That news is the best gift we could receive and we have no regrets that we didn’t wait until Christmas to get it!       Here’s to Christmas miracles.

So, many of our reflections and thanks this holiday season center on things that Hampton has taught us through his actions. We’d like to share those with you…

• Wake up each morning filled with happiness and share that with all of the people around you. 
• Be thankful for all of the great food you get to eat. Cherish it when people spoil you with tasty treats and a home cooked meal.
• Play.  Be sure to get out and enjoy each day with your family and friends (furry and human). Hike, play ball, swim and wrestle with your buddies if that suits you.
• Give and receive hugs and kisses often.  They help you heal and they just plain feel good, like a nice belly rub.
• Be loyal and faithful. That’s what your best friends do.
• Take naps.  When you are feeling physically or mentally tired or if that little patch of sunshine looks like a nice place to lie down… indulge. It will refresh you and brighten your perspective.
• There’s no place like home. That’s where you are safe, have a warm bed and are surrounded by people who love you.
• Make the best of every day since no one knows how many days you will get. 

So we present Hampton’s list of dog wisdom as words to live by. And we wish you all the best for a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year.  

With love, hugs and kisses,

Hampton, Russ and Sue        2015