Wednesday March 31

Beautiful sunshine, warm (80 degrees today) ... great AM run, Ginger very peppy (I'd put her green sweater on her last night as it went down to freezing, she burst out of the kennel before I could take it off and off she went, ears flying, tail high) went almost a complete circuit of the property, then jined us at the drainage pond ... treats for all, then back for meds, fed, kenneled and went to work ... had to go to dentist, also apparently have sinus infection that is making my teeth hurt, came home late afternoon, husband had gone into town and kenneled all, let out for run, waited for husband to return, then loaded all into van (except fr Mattie, who had joined us for the run), went to pharmacy for my meds, returned home after dark, fed, kenneled, let Ginger back in for evening meds ... she is bouncy, cheerful, keeps wanting to go outside and turn on all the motion lights ... another good day for my Ginger of the Flying Ears..... thanks be to God ... and thanks to all of you for your wonderful messages, candles and prayers ... one from last night I really like ' You just remember, it is your job to turn those motion lights on every night! Keep dancing to your music!"

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Tuesday March 30

Cooler,beautiful sparkling spring day ... let all out for AM run, Ginger runs happily from her kennel and around the shed, then down the side and joins us at bottom of hill, lively and cheerful today ... watch the horses playing in back, bucking and cavorting, ride through the still unmowed vetch (the purple weed) towards the now blooming pear trees, then back to trailer for AM meds, got food, fed and kenneled, greeted husband's worker , then off to work ... long day, hearing in Columbia, I am really tired ... got home and lay down but Ginger was having none of it, nuzzled me awake so I got into my work clothes, got clippers and headed out for more branch clipping, accompanied every step of the way by Ginger, the other dogs, including Mattie, coming and going between me and husband who is mowing on tractor (Snoopy rolling in the new mown grass and turning green)  ... managed to slice up my arm on the branches, back to trailer for bandages, then husband manages to slice his finger up trying to get something unstuck on the tractor... back for more bandages ... nightfall, got food, feed and kennel all, bring Ginger back in for evening meds and scrambled egg ... she is still hungry, gave her greound turkey ... she settles for awhile on the porch with me, then runs out turning on all the motion lights ... back in for a good brushing.... ah, another good day for my sweet red girl!

Thank you for your continuing prayers and messages of support, Ginger and I are blessed to have your company on this journey...

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

March photos Ginger the day after her fever

Palm Sunday March 28

Windy, cloudy, threatening skies all day ... Ginger came out of her kennel exuberantly, went for a brief run down the hill, watched the horses in back running back and forth, all animals seem unnerved by the wind (including me!)  came back up, gave her meds, got food, fed and kenneled, went to church ... beautiful Palm Sunday service, several of Ginger's fan club (who don't have email) asked after her, was able to give them the good news ... return home, husband had let all out, Ginger inside ... very windy (even windier), took all for run to bottom of hill, she seemed tired so instead of doing the whole circuit came back up ... all dogs seem to be anxious to get into shelter from the wind ... Ginger inside, slept most of day (awakened for eggs, liver water, and ground turkey) ... mid afternoon husband out in back on tractor, DB and Banshee had gone with him, Snoopy on porch ... neighbor called with news there was a tornado warning ... ran out, jumped on mower and went to tell husband (DB, Banshee and Snoopy racing with me), back up hill, kenneled dogs, went inside, turn on TV ... and the warning was over. Let DB,Snoopy and Banshee out again, let Ginger out, mowed a little ... then fed and kenned for evening, let Ginger in for meds... she is eating with great gusto, but gets tired very fast (I think it's the antibiotics, she is on a high dosage of Baytril) and sleeping a lot ... but no fever. I will post some pictures on my blog and Facebook this evening ... including a  charming picture of Ginger in her 'People find me irresistible' T shirt, with little Mattie (the neighbor dog) ... from yesterday.

Thank you all for your prayers and support for my sweet red girl, who is still dancing, a bit slower, but still dancing (and she just turned on the motion lights on 2 of the nearer buildings!) ... here are 2 of her candle messages from last night (I just love that virtual candle site, it is a wonderful blessing to be able to post and read the messages) ...'Tears in my eyes, a smile on my lips and sweet joy in my heart. What wonderful news ! Our red lady wins again.''For a beautiful red girl, may you have the strength and courage to continue your dance.'


--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

PM Saturday March 27

PM Update: After great news from vet, took other dogs on celebratory run around property (our AM run was short and the other girls seemed confused (where's Ginger) and sad ... I fed and kenneled them, then called vet, then went out and gave them the good news and we had a great run. Left to pick up Ginger ... running late as DB got in my car to go with me, got her out, she followed me to the gate ( I think she knew I was going to get Ginger and wanted to come), got out to open gate and DB back in car ... finally got her out and sped off ... and yes, it is possible to make the 40 minute drive in 30 minutes.. got to vet at exactly noon, walked in ... they let Ginger loose and she came runing to me, wriggling and happy as a puppy ... oh joy! The vet staff were crying too .... paid the bill (yikes) and brought Ginger home! She slept the whole way ... got home, let her out (had husband kennel other dogs so they wouldn't mob her) then took her inside for egg, liver water, and her yesterday meds she never got ... then let other dogs out to greet her. Walked around a bit, then took her back inside where she curled up and went to sleep ... and so did I ... I was exhausted. Fixed late lunch for husband (he let me sleep, bless him), he's better today, he and his workers were busy all day ... gave Ginger snack, took her out for brief run (just down the hill and back with the other dogs) ... little Mattie showed up ... Ginger is still tired, let her back in to sleep some more, and I laid down again (wow, I never sleep during the day)... back out for another brief run and a bit of mowing, then let Ginger back in, gave her another snack, fixed dog food... took some pictures on the porch (hopefully will post later), fed and kenneled, let Ginger back in for evening meds ... a good day for my sweet red girl, dancing again .... thank you all so very much for your beautiful messages and prayers last night ... here are a few to share ...'Tonight my heart aches as I read your update. I cried as I read about Ginger's crisis...and I pray 'Please God, give her the strength to fight this beast!!!' You & Sweet Ginger have become a part of my extended family....Love & Healing Hugs to you and Beautiful Ginger'.... 'I have lit a candle...to send guardian angels to watch over Ginger of the Flying ears!!!! Ginger-may God's hand touch you so you will bounce back better than ever. Fly on beautiful girl! Angels are sent to watch over you always'....'To Ginger, A red candle for our red lady. You keep dancing girl !!'....'I have lit a candle... and look forward every night to reading about Ginger's day. Dance on, Beautiful Ginger..everyone is praying for you.'....  Your support and love helped me (and Ginger) get through the night, and make it to this beautiful day ... God is indeed good, to have sent us such wonderful friends and supporters!


--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

AM Saturday March 27

Called vet , her temp has gone down to 102, she is eating, barking (I heard her in the background!!) running around, vet said she'd eaten everything they put in front of her and wants more .... God be praised!!!! I will pick her up at noon (they close at moom) so se can finish the bag of fluid, bring her HOME on oral antibiotics ....

Thank you for your prayers through the night! God is good, my sweet red girl is still dancing !!!

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Friday March 26

AM update: Ginger is not doing well this AM. Went to kennels, she was still in her house instead of at the door. She came out, let other dogs out, she did not run off down the hill, she is quivering again, she followed me down the hill, and did eat 1 treat. I took dogs back up and fed and kenneled. Ginger ate a little bit of breakfast. I am alone here, my husband took workers into town, he should be back soon. I am taking Ginger to the vet, I am so afraid, this is exactly what happened when she first got sick, one day she was fine the next she wouldnt eat. And the quivering, I know thats a sign of pain. Oh my sweet brave red girl.

Evening update: Got to vet about 10 AM. First I called and they said call the oncologist so I called and they said take her in for bloodwork and exam and have it FAXed. Was at local vet all day. Ginger shivering uncontrollably, constant tremors. She had a fever of 104 when we got there. They drew blood and gave her back to me, we walked around outside as she shivered less when moving. They said the shiivering was the fever, not pain as she did not flinch from any touching. Whe I brought her inside I wet paper towels and put o her belly which seemed to give some relief. (Oh I wish I'd thought to take her temp last night, it didn't even occur to me ....) Bloodwork only showed elevated liver enzymes, calcium and renal OK. WBC OK. Took Xrays of chest as her breathing was labored, and abdomen. FAXed all to oncologist. Local vet showed me Xrays, lymph nodes in chest OK, no fluid in lungs, abdominal lymph nodes enlarged but no more than before. By this point her fever was 105, put her on IV fluids and antibiotics until heard back from oncologist. Then took husband to chiropractor his back is severely out, he fell backwards yesterday evening (long story, was dragging a 90 lb bag of dirt and tripped backwards over a cement block). Ate sandwich. Got call from oncologist he had looked at bloodwork, his feeling was two possibilities that could cause the fever, could be the lymph nodes have turned necrotic (apparently if lymph nodes are enlarged like this the blood doesnt flow through them and they decay from the inside), or, there is a secondary bacterial infection that doesnt show on bloodwork (he said it is possible for infection not to show on blodwork if it is localized or if it is recent), only possible thing to do is try the IV fluid and antibiotics and see if her fever comes down. He said the shivering was fever, not pain, as she didnt show indications of pain (pawing-licking at her side, or reacting to palpation) Back to local vet, discussed with him he had also talked to oncologist. Decided to leave Ginger at vet overnight to continue IV fluids and antibiotics. Local vet did say I could take her home, as they don't do IVs past 6 PM, but they do have someone check the animals every 2 hours overnight, and if she got a shivering spell again they could give her a shot of sedative , which I couldnt do at home . She was more comfortable when I left around 5, not shaking all over at least, barely recognized me and husband, but finally wagged her tail, but fever had not gone down. I HATED leaving her there but thought it'd be best for her .  In AM if fever comes down it possibly is infection and I'd then keep up the IVs. If not, then its the cancer turned necrotic and thats the end of the road.  Thank you for your prayers and support during the day, I was away from my computer so I got them this evening when I got home (after I took te other dogs who had been kenneled all day for a run and fed and kenneled them again) and I know that your prayers kept me AND Ginger going through this difficult day .... and it was a great blessing to come home and read your messages ....


-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Thursday March 25

Another lovely  day ... had to leave early for a meeting so husband in charge of running, feeding and medicating ... he called around 930 to report all was fine ... when I finally got back home (this seemed like a really long day) it was cloudy and threatening rain, all dogs outside, greeted me, I changed clothes and we had a good evening run ... did the circuit in back, mowing as I went, Ginger at my side, stopped and  watched neighbor feed her horses, came back around through te wild plum trees, smeling teir sweet scent ... ad up front to cavort in the vetch (Snoopy rolling in the new mown grass and getting all green) no Mattie tonight, shucks ... return to trailer and husband already has food and is heading to kennels as its starting to sprinkle rain, feed and kennel, bring Ginger inside, give her evening meds and snack, start typing update ...stop and fix sandwiches, give Ginger and the Damcat some cheese, sit back at computer ... Ginger comes over shaking like a leaf, all over, a quiver running through her ... I try to calm her, rub her, brush her, give her Rescue Remedy, let her outside where she drinks a LOT of water, walks around but does not turn on the motion lights ... comes back inside, still quivering but not as badly, then lays down in her bed.... she's laying there quietly now ... I am praying for St. Francis to help her ... this has been a good day for Ginger, happy, lively, cheerful, loving ... please join in my prayers that whatever is causing this quivering eases off tonight .... we are going to the vet tomorrow for bloodwork ... Ginger has gotten up again, she lay by the door for awhile then joined us to lick our supper plates ... she is not quivering now ... we went out on the porch and sat for awhile, it's not raining now, a warm soft breeze is gently ruffling her beautiful red coat ... came back in, Ginger ad the Damcat had some liver water (which she is enjoying immensely) ...thank you for your prayers and support, my sweet red girl and I really need your help tonight.The greatest gift throughout this journey has been my Ginger's indomitable spirit, her joy in life, and she has been in no pain or misery ... please pray that this continues until the end.



-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Wednesday March 24

Beautiful day again! Peach trees, plum and forsythia in bloom,
Bradford pears too ... Ginger lively and cheerful... let all out for
AM run, meds for Ginger, fed and kenneled, went to work ... husband let out shortly thereafter, as he had to go into town around lunchtime ... I returned late afternoon, Ginger inside, all others including Mattie greet me at gate and accompany me to trailer, change clothes, get mower, let Ginger out and cut branches for an hour or so ...
Mattie steals Snoopy's ball, mad chase ensues, Ginger follows me from tree to tree (I'm doing the pears and crepe myrtle and a couple of  scrub oak on the far side tonight) and scratches her back luxiourously on the low branches (before I lop them off), DB and Banshee are investigating the woodpile for mice (Ginger not interested, so I bet there are no mice). Return to porch, get some coffee, sit with all 5 dogs ... all of a sudden Ginger spots a bird and takes off like a shot, followed by DB, Banshee and Mattie (there's no ball involved, so Snoop stays on the porch) ... oh for a video camera of Ginger leading the pack across the field (which is still covered in vetch, as I haven't mowed yet ... it is lovely stuff, bright green with purple flowers ...with a beautiful red dog leaping through it ... ) they all return, panting, for a long drink of water (Ginger goes first, the others wait for her, Mattie last) draining the bucket dry ... I give everyone a treat, go inside and get food, then feed and kennel ...bring Ginger back for evening meds, sit on porch awhile more, husband joins us, Mattie still hanging around hoping for more fun, sniffs Ginger, licks her muzzle, then stations herself at my other side ...
Ginger lies on the porch at our feet while we watch the sunset ...
then inside for meds and snack (eggs) and human supper. Ginger licks our plates, and now is snoozing on her couch. A beautiful day for my  sweet red girl, As I sit typing my nightly report, I am so very
thankful to be blessed with such wonderful friends, both here and
across the world, who love my Ginger as I do, and who send such lovely messages (which I read aloud to Ginger, you know...) of support and thanksgiving. God is good...
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Tuesday March 23

Gorgeous day! Cool this AM (30's) but bright sunshine ... let dogs out, Ginger took off (still in her green sweater, as it was cold last night), all I could see was her tail as she headed for the corner (that was her old routine, head for the woodsy corner, run along the side fence, do a circuit of the property, meet us dowen the hill ... she doesnt do the whole circuit now, just a half, but enjoys every minute...) threw ball for Snoopy, gave everyone treats, back up the hill for AM meds for Ginger, fed and kenneled. Today I took Banshee with me, to go to the groomer, after my lunch meeting I picked her up, looking pretty, and went to a local senior residence for pet therapy. I'm trying to get back into our normal rouitine, where each dog gets its 'time' with me .... returned home, had husband kennel others as they always are suspicious of Banshee when she's been to the groomer (although I don't let them use perfume, she obviously smells 'different'), kenneled Banshee too, then let all out after a bit. Did some mowing (the purple weedy stuff is vetch, for those who asked ... it looks nice but grows VERY quickly really high and chokes the grass) ... Mattie joined us, we mowed the back awhile but Mattie kept slipping through the fence and harassing the neighbor's horses (not good), so went back to the trailer. Let Ginger inside as she was getting tired (though she gamely keeps up with me, I have to make sure she stops to rest). Went back out at twilight, took all for final run, then fed and kenneled, brought Ginger inside for evening meds (and egg and ground chicken) ... after our supper, she wanted to go out several times and turn on the motion lights, guess I didn't tire her too much .... another good day for my sweet red girl... thank you for your prayers and support ... and candles! I'd like to share with you a few ... 'Ginger-May your days be filled with love, from those near and far and may you be touched by God's healing hand.' and 'Ginger as you dance through the valley I hope you know the strength and love that you are giving others and are receiving in return. You are one special lady!' .... yes, she is indeed a special lady, and I am honored to be a part of her journey ...

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com

Monday March 22

Cloudy,damp,cold ... let out for AM run, dogs unfazed by the weather, Ginger takes off like a red flame, running through the mist, joins me halfway down hill, meet up with DB,Snoopy and Banshee at bottom ... throw ball for Snoopy, give all treats, back to trailer for AM meds for Ginger, feed, kennel, go to work .... husband reports weather nasty most of the day, drizzling off and on, windy, cold, dogs slept most of day, Ginger inside, others on porch ... got home around 630 (still light, but cloudy and cold), DB,Snoopy, Banshee and Mattie (next door JRT) meet me at gate, follow me to trailer, go inside,change, greet Ginger, fix food, take dogs for evening run (boy, this is really miserable, wind blowing mist into my face like little knives... while the dogs cavort around, undeterred) ...finally gets a bit much, so head back, get food, feed and kennel, take Ginger inside for evening meds and snack ... she actually got double food tonight, husband helping me feed and gave Ginger Snoopy's food by mistake, then gave her her own food (which has her supplements in it) ... I fixed Snoopy another bowl. Ginger doing well, very lively (well, she slept all day...) another good day for my sweet red lady.

Thank you, as always, for your continuing prayers and support ... and if you'd like to light a candle to help my Ginger dance on ... here's the link again ... http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Sunday March 21

Rainy Sunday ... and colder, and windy .... we got spoiled by the beautiful taste of spring ...  gave the dogs a brief AM run, had just gotten to bottom of hill and were heading up the side when it started drizzling, by time made it back to the trailer was raining rather hard ... gave Ginger meds, fed and kenneled the damp but cheerful dogs (hey, what's a little rain, at least Snoopy got a bath of sorts) ... went to church. Stopped raining so husband let dogs out, 3 greeted me at gate and Ginger and Damcat inside ... quickly changed clothes and took them for another run ... dang, starts raining again! This is the story of the day, it seems, every time it stopped raining and I go outside and crank up the mower, it starts again ...finally gave up, took a nap (dogs too, on the enclosed porch, Ginger inside ... no little Mattie today) and finished doing the wash from yesterday (I only got one load done yesterday). Ginger happy and cheerful today, watching her run through the rain on the way back up the hill, she wasnt waiting on ME, that's for sure! Got very windy in early evening, fed and kenneled, brought Ginger inside for evening meds and snack (eggs and ground turkey soup) ... so far, each time she's tried to go out on an evening excursion, it starts raining again... and she turns around and looks at me accusingly like 'why can't you fix this" ... well, my sweet red girl, I can't 'fix' the weather anymore than I can 'fix' the cancer ... all I can do is keep on going, day by day, treasuring the good and plugging away through the bad.. with the sure knowledge that the good will come again ....

The greatest blessing of today, I think, is that two of the folks on one of the dog cancer lists I'm on have also started chronicling the daily 'good times' for their dogs ... I am amazed at the strength and peace that chronicling Ginger's journey has given to me, how concentrating on the good moments (and writing them down) opens our hearts to acceptance and joy.

Thank you all who are sharing this journey with me and Ginger, your prayers, messages and support make it possible to keep on keeping on...

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Saturday March 20

Another beautiful spring day! Greeted by Mattie, waiting impatiently for me to let dogs out ... Ginger vibrant and lively today, took all for long AM run, the wild plums are starting to bloom! Banshee heads straight for the cave under the chinaberry tree, Ginger flushes up some quail, Snoopy and Mattie chase balls, DB runs in ever widening circles,  Ginger joins her ... the beautiful pointer and the lovely red setter, leaping through the ever growing grasses ... return to trailer, give Ginger med, feed and kennel all. Let out again awhile later, all join me in cutting branches ... Ginger stays with me the whole time, the others go off on their own, returning whenever I pause (I understand how they can tell I've stopped mowing, but HOW do they know when I've stopped cuting branches?) Ginger seems tired, so back to the trailer, the others hang out with husband and workers ... after lunch and housework, I do some mowing, Ginger refreshed from her nap stays with me up and down, back and forth ... she has always done this, trotted along beside me wherever I go, now I have to watch to make sure she doesnt get too tuckered out, so I stop more often ... back to the trailer to finish the wash (had to stop when husband cut off water, something about fixing a breaker for the pump house) ... late afternoon now, let Ginger rest while I fix dogs' food, then go out again to prune a few more trees (yes, I ave a LOT oftrees that have to be pruned, and am going to have to burn the cutting tomorrow, the pile is above my head now) ... back to trailer, get the food and Ginger, feed and kennel all (Mattie has been here ALL day) ... its dark now, get Ginger for evening meds and supper ... now she's lively again, takes two trips outside to run in the dark (and turn on the motion lights) to settle her down ... another good day for my sweet red girl, still dancing ...

I'd like to share with you a message I got this morning from a dear friend 'I know that in January you thought Ginger would not get to experience the warmth of Spring BUT....God gave her the strength from all the prayers, good thoughts and best wishes across the world, to romp, bask in the sunshine, run with her ears flying in the wind, and He also gave her the capacity to touch strangers in a way that would not ordinarily have happened. Ginger is truly a gift from God and every second she is here, she is doing His work. People don't normally think animals can do this but they do and Ginger is the Ambassador of Awareness, love of God's creatures. faith, and proof that prayers REALLY do work and continue to work through her and through you.' ... I continue to be touched and amazed at the outpouring of love for Ginger, and humbled by the expressions of faith revealed that are accompanying her journey... I can never thank you all enough for being a part of this .
--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com

Friday March 19

Beautiful day, perfect weather ... Ginger raring to go today, took all for lovely AM run, the peach trees are blooming in clouds of pink, the sky is a brilliant blue ... my beautiful red girl especially vivid against the new green grass (and weeds) ... Banshee and Ginger continued digging in the 'cave' under the old chinaberry tree, Snoopy chased her ball and DB chased Snoopy ... then back up the hill, fed and kenneled, went to work. Husband left all dogs out today with workers (no concrete being poured or anything the dogs could 'mess up') then kenneled to meet me in town mid afternoon ... I returned home around 530, let all out, Mattie from next door joined us, I mowed for awhile ... Ginger follows me back and forth, up and down the hill (Snoopy rolls in the new mown grass, she is now green ... DB and Banshee go about their own business until I stop the mower, then appear for treats, little Mattie runs around and around and teases the big dogs)... I figured Ginger was getting too tired so back up the hill and went inside with her and let her rest awhile. Husband returned home, he then worked in the garage while I mowed a bit more (Ginger stayed with him) then got food, fed and kenneled,then brought Ginger in for evening meds as it was dark ... she got some ground chicken soup and egg too ... she seems very restless now, she was lying at my feet but kept getting up and down, so I let her out for a nightime run to turn on all the motion sensor lights ... another good day for my sweet red girl. Thank you all for your prayers and support .. here is a candle message from last night I'd like to share ...'Ginger, May the sun shine brightly on you and the love you inspire, make you strong. God will always watch over you and your guardian.'

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com

Thursday March 18

Beautiful morning run, chilly but nice, brisk AM run, Ginger exuberant, gave meds fed and kenneled, went to work ... after a day at work that's the kind of day we're sent ever so often to remind us we aren't in heaven, returned to be greeted by DB,Banshee,Snoopy and Mattie at the gate ... Ginger and Damcat inside. Husband reports Ginger had a fine day today. Gave Ginger some liver water, took all 5 dogs for evening run ... Mattie was entranced by the smell of the liver water and kept licking at Ginger's muzzle, Ginger sped up and we all careen down the hill ... mowed a bit (the purple weeds are taking over quickly, dogs rolled in the new mown grass-weeds,) watched neighbor work her horse in back, Snoopy took several swims in the drainage pond, Banshee and Snoopy chased Mattie, Ginger and DB explored the ditch ... returned to trailer at twilight, got food,  Ginger and Banshee head under the shed for their evening mouse hunt, whistled them in, fed and kenneled all, gave Mattie a snack. Another good day for my sweet red girl, and a blessing for me to return home to 5 lovely dogs (and the Damcat), in the beautiful SC springtime ... thank you for your continued prayers and support ... here is another lovely candle message ... 'Ginger you have touched so many hearts and lives. May you have many more blessed days.'

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

St. Patrick's Day Wednesday March 17

Cloudy chilly morning, let all out for AM run, gave Ginger meds, fed, kenneled, went to work ... nothing special, just a normal morning run  ... husband later let dogs out (they always rest at least a half hour after meals) and they hung out with him and workers til he left for dentist around 1 PM. Started raining mid afternoon, raining when I got home, slacked up a bit (just a drizzle) so I let them out for brief evening run (unfortunately someone had left my mower out in the rain so my seat got pretty damp), threw ball for Snoopy, all dogs running through the misty rain with abandon, Ginger's ears flying (though damp), then back to trailer to get food, went towards kennels, Snoopy went right to her kennel, DB to the shed, Ginger and Banshee decided to go under the shed (I think there are mice under there) ... I whistled them in, fed and kenneled everybody and gave bully sticks (instead of regular evening chewies). Now raining harder again... need to go bring Ginger in for evening meds ... I hope she doesnt get really restless tonight (for the past 2 nights around 1030 she's gotten really restless and antsy , if it's raining I wont be able to let her out to run around and turn all the motion sensor lights on ....

Thank you for your continuing love and support and prayers ...  Here is a wonderful St. Patrick;s Day cartoon by Gary Gilchrist (Today's Dogg) hope you all had an excellent St.Paddy's Day ... and wore green ... Ireland Forever! any country that could give us such beautiful red dogs is truly the 'blessed isle'...

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Tuesday March 16

Sunny and colder this AM, but still lovely ... let all out for AM run, Ginger very frisky today, took off like a red flash ... one of husband's workers arrived and threw the ball for Snoopy, so she didnt join us in the run down the hill ... DB, Banshee, Ginger and I sat and watched the neighbor's horses again, then back up the hill, gave Ginger meds, fed and kenneled, went to work ... husband reports the dogs 'ran him to death' today, insisting he stop work and play with them ... returned home (hooray, I get an hour of daylight in the evening now!) and was met at the gate by husband and 5 dogs (little Mattie had come over from next door) ... gave all treats, proceeded back to trailer, changed clothes, fixed food, then took all for evening run ... Snoopy and Mattie competing to catch the ball (even when I threw it in the pond...) Ginger watching them play, then exploring the 'cave' under the old chinaberry tree roots ... her whole head stuck in there, red tail wagging madly ... then she's off! a bird (whose nest she was too near, no doubt) dive bombed at her chattering, Ginger leaps up and chases the bird, wholands on the highest branch of another tree ... so Ginger goes into 'setter stance' (as if the rest of us hadn't noticed it yet ...) then up towards the front for some acorns, back to the trailer to get food, feed and kennel, give everyone chewies (Mattie takes hers and comes back to the porch to finish before she trots off home). A good day! Let Ginger back in for evening meds and snack, and opened our present (more on this below)...

Thank you all for your continuing prayers and messages (and the wonderful birthday cards and messages! )....and a special thanks to Rebecca and Angel Kibo (who battled lymphoma for years, and left this earth February 23) ... when I got home from work this evening, there was a present waiting for me and Ginger ... some of Kibo's supplements that Rebecca had so very kindly offered to share with those of us still battling the beast ... with a beautiful card with one of the photos of Kibo in his last week on this earth, enjoying the water at his beach ... oh Rebecca what an absolutely WONDERFUL memorial to your Kibo this was, I will treasure the card forever .. I HOPE and pray that Ginger will get to use ALL the supplements, but, if not, I too will 'pass them on'...

A friend sent this to me ... I wanted to share with you all ..."What Cancer Cannot Do: It cannot invade the soul, suppress memories, kill friendship, destroy peace, conquer the spirit, shatter hope, cripple love, corrode faith, steal eternal life, silence courage." The new friends I have made on this journey and the old friends who have stuck by me and Ginger ... what a true blessing this has been. God is good.

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Monday March 15

Beautiful day, sunny, warm ... it's my birthday and I got the greatest of all gifts, Ginger is still dancing ... slept in a little late, took all for AM run, watched the horses in the neighbor's field kicking up their heels and running for joy, came back and gave Ginger meds, fed and kenneled, then let all out for mid morning run (I'm off work today) , finished pruning the wild plums (I am pruning them into trees, they naturally grow into an impenetrable thicket ... when I first got the property it was a briar patch (blackberries) above my head and I didnt even know I had wild plums and persimmons til I started clearing it out ... now I'm turning them into trees...)  ... then pruned some of the scrub oak in front ... Ginger stuck with me the whole way, the other dogs finked out and went to the porch for their midday nap ... Ginger is doing very well today, thank you Lord ... returned to trailer, had lunch, and joined the dogs (and cat) in the mid day nap ... up again, this time to pot up some little tiny trees husband had bought for my birthday ... all dogs joined us off and on in greenhouse to help, Snoopy kept bringing her ball in to be thrown, Ginger sat and observed, Banshee lay outside the door and guarded us, DB wandered in and out ... after finishing and washing up, took Ginger inside for a nap, sat on porch with others and, here comes Mattie the Mooch (neighbor dog) for treats ....  it's still light out so took the dogs for another run, Mattie too ... decided to put down the mower blades for the first mow of the year (the purple flowering weeds are getting high, if they get too high husband has to take to big mower to them...) then noticed some more trees that need pruning, got shears, pruned til nightfall, accompanied by Ginger, Banshee and DB, Snoopy having decided my husband was having more fun in the garage and Mattie haven given up on a free dinner and gone home. Fed and kenneled, brought Ginger inside for evening meds (including the new chemo pill) and snack ...

Tonight it was still warm enough after supper to sit on the porch and look at the stars ... no wind, very pleasant ... Someone asked me what does Ginger do in the evenings after I send out my update ... well, she either snoozes at my feet in the computer room, bugs the heck out of me for treats or to go outside (she's very lively at night) where she runs from building to building setting off the motion sensor lights, then back inside for another nap, gets a good brushing, has her ears washed (if she's had a soupy supper), takes another nap, sits in the bathroom while I take a shower, takes another nap, etc...  til I or husband take her out to the kennels around 11 PM. (She and all dogs get chewies as a midnight snack.)

A really fine day, I think, a birthday surrounded by dogs and love ... thank you all for your birthday wishes, they came true, I still had my Ginger with me today... and of course, thank you for your continuing prayers, our support in Ginger's dance through the valley.


-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Sunday March 14

Clear and colder ... sprang forward with the time change, took all for AM run, Ginger lively and cheerful, gave her meds, fed and kenneled, went to church ... returned home, it has gotten windy! March winds ripping across the ridge ... let dogs out, went for noontime run, returned, fixed lunch, gave Ginger snack (scrambled eggs). Did a little catching up on computer, read messages of support and love for Ginger, it's now cloudy ... decided to clip the evil vines in the woods (these are horrible vines with thorns that will choke out a forest, they compete with the honeysuckle vines which are bad enough but at least don't have thorns ...) went out to get dogs, all including Mattie were on porch, but where's Banshee? ... she'd been helping my husband clean up garage and  managed to get herself locked in , let her out, she was all huffy , so took all for a run to calm them down; decided to prune wild plums while in back, got started good and ... where's Mattie? ... she had gotten through the fence and was in the neighbor's horse pasture ... not good ... cranked up mower and cart and proceeded to woods for the original plan of cutting evil vines ... this went fine until I managed to get evil vines caught in my coat, wrapped around me, and Ginger, who was sticking to me like glue and was now fastened to me with thorny vines ... managed to extricate ourselves, lugged vines to cart and ... Mattie's gone again, this time through the fence to the other neighbor (the one who really doesn't like dogs ... ck, this is really not good.) Cranked up mower, headed back up hill to where I dump branches to be burned, OK, all dogs here now ... and it starts sprinkling rain ... back to trailer, let Ginger in, others disperse thmselves on porch ...  Ginger tuckered out, naps at my feet while I check email... go to kitchen to fix food, she springs up and comes in for some chicken ...  it's stopped raining and  it's still light at 7 PM! (this time change is exhausting, I never understand why they don't have it in the winter when it gets dark so early ...) I'd take them for an evening run, but, Ginger is tired and the others are READY for supper ... fix food, feed and kennel all dogs (Mattie gave up and went home) ... another good day for my sweet red girl, God is good. Thank you for your continuing prayers, candles and messages of support, they mean SO much to me ... and I know it's helping Ginger continue on her dance through the valley.

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Saturday March 13

Beautiful sunny morning ... I overslept, husband let dogs out and Ginger in, she woke me up ... got up, slugged down coffee, dressed, fixed dogs food, gave Ginger meds, took all for AM run (including Mattie from next door), brilliant sunshine, lots of water in drainage ponds from last night's storms, all dogs lively, playing, running ... fed and kenneled, let out again in about an hour, had another run. Then I had to do a bunch of housework and paying bills to do ... by lunchtime, a strong wind had kicked up, sun and clouds played hide and seek all afternoon ... did a bit of branch cutting in the woods, Ginger had a grand time sniffing and snorting in the woods while DB and Banshee dug and Snoopy followed me with her ball (which I threw for her as much as I picked up branches). Clouding up late afternoon, took all dogs for van ride to Fred's and Bilo, (Ginger rides in the front, with her nose glued to the vent to sniff the outside air, Snoopy in back seat with me, DB and Banshee in their crates in the back. Husband drove.) ... big storm blew up while we were sitting in parking lot (husband in store) dogs snoozing peacefully ... followed by a beautiful rainbow. Returned home, rain had swept through our place, ended now, dark, unpacked van, let dogs out, fixed food, fed and kenneled then brought Ginger inside for evening meds and snacks ...  another good day, thank you Lord, and thanks to all of you for your support, prayers, messages and candles ... the one wonderful thing that has come from my
accompanying Ginger on her awful journey is the way I keep seeing God's Hand and feeling His presence ... I remember the very first Sunday Ginger got sick, before I knew what her diagnosis was, the psalm was Psalm 36, 'and God will save both man and beast' ... and there have been so many other signs ... tonights' rainbows among them.



-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Friday March 12

Foggy again this morning, took all for AM run, Ginger very energetic, all dogs energetic after been cooped up yesterday ... gave Ginger meds, fed and kenneled all, went to work. Husband let all out again, said Ginger kept wanting to come inside and nap. Started raining in afternoon, when I got home it was raining hard, husband had run, fed and kenneled all then let Ginger inside ... big storm, thunder and lightening, Ginger very nerved up (she's used to being in her kennel in storms) quieted down when I went into bathroom with her (a small space being what she's used to in storms) ... gave her evening meds (including the new at home chemo pill), supper snack (eggs, ground chicken). Still all nerved up, wanted to go out, still raining, went out quickly then sat on porch with me, dried her off, back inside. Brushed her, cuddled her, loved on her, she's finally quieted down and is snoozing at my feet. Another good day for my sweet red girl, still loving life, still eating voraciously, still dancing .....

I feel a bit better today, your messages, candles and prayers comfort me so much, and, I know in my heart and soul that Ginger is being helped by your compassion and kindness ... let me share with you the messages from 2 candles lit today for Ginger ... For Ginger, This light, like the light you bring to all who love you will always burn brightly in our hearts! and Ginger...Prayers here that you become the beautiful Redhead who danced the dance to defeat the beast! Run with the wind beautiful girl...


--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com

Thursday March 11

Fog in early AM, had morning run, fed and kenneled, gave Ginger meds, then it starts raining ... got Ginger into car and we went to Greenville for oncology appointment. Raining all the way. Ultrasound showed no change in lymph nodes, still the same. Apparently we will not achieve remission for Ginger, the hope now is for the lymphoma to remain stable (if the nodes increase she'll go into renal failure as she did to begin with). The oncologist said there is no way of determining if it's the pred keeping the nodes stable, or the very aggressive chemo drugs we've given, or, if the tumor had just stabilized 'on its own' ...discussed various other drugs with oncologist, there apparently is not that much research on using the 'rescue protocols' on dogs (like Ginger) that fail to achieve first remission, though a lot a research on rescue protocols (the more aggressive drugs) for dogs that come out of remission and want to achieve 2d or 3d remission  ... decided to try pred and Leukeran (a milder take at home chemo pill) for 2 weeks, check bloodwork locally to see if calcium level stable. (The calcium level going up again would also be an indication the nodes were growing, without having to do an ultrasound.) This is a really difficult decision,  the more aggressive drugs (which haven't achieved remission so far, but may (or may not) be what is keeping the cancer 'stable', also have such potentially dangerous side effects (which she hasnt experienced so far, but could at any time.)

I had thought and prayed about this, what to do if CCNU didnt affect the nodes, but being told it didn't was like a punch in the gut ...  Since Ginger is still doing well and has a good quality of life, I thought trying the milder drug for 2 weeks to see if she remains stable would be a good plan. Of course, this could be a mistake. There is just no way of knowing ..

Ginger was her usual lively, cheerful self, the vet and staff all adore her, she greeted everyone in the lobby (including new patients, a Labradoodle with skin lesions and a Weimereiner with lymphoma); she got an egg biscuit (she gets the egg, I eat the biscuit) on the way up and back.

Returned home, it had stopped raining, let DB,Banshee and Snoopy out, Mattie was waiting on porch, went for an evening run, then fed and kenneled everyone, giving Mattie a treat to carry home.

Again I thank you all for your wonderful prayers and support, I am sorry I haven't got better news ... BUT, Ginger is still cheerful, beautiful and loving life, so, today was a good day for her ... may she continue her dance as long as God wills.

 




-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Wednesday March 10

Rainy and colder ... brief AM run (it was just sprinkling at that time) down the hill and along the side, a brief foray into the acorns and then started drizzling harder, so back to the trailer we go, let Ginger in for AM meds, then fed and kenneled everybody and went to work. Husband says it slacked up a bit so he let Ginger in and others out a bit til it started raining again in earnest, then kenneled DB,Banshee and Snoopy and took Ginger in to local vet for bloodwork .... says he took her in, they drew blood, he and Ginger went back out to truck and they came running after him saying they forgot she had to have full blood chemistry panel to check liver enzymes ... so poor Ginger had to give more blood .... he and Ginger then went shopping (Ginger snoozed in the truck) and arrived back home around same time as I did, drizzling again  so let all dogs out VERY briefly (threw ball for Snoopy, who is oblivious to rain, DB and Banshee and Ginger stayed on the porch watching ...) then fed and kenneled. Oncologist called around 6 PM, said Ginger's bloodwork looked fine, so will go to Greenville tomorrow to get nodes checked and if chemo has reduced them at all, will give CCNU again.... but that's tomorrow, right now I'm just going to think about what a good day Ginger had today, despite the rain, despite the double blood draw, her spirit is undiminished, she toroughly enjoyed her ride in the truck with my husband, her brief run in the rain with her 'sisters', and oh yes, she enjoys
every morsel of food that comes her way ...she even ate an olive I dropped on the floor while fixing people supper... never had a dog that ate olives before...
Let Ginger in for evening meds, she's a bit antsy (as hadnt had much exercise today)  I brushed her for awhile and she's now snoozing on her couch, nope, she's moved and is now asleep at my feet. Hopefully the rain will slack up tomorrow and I can give the dogs a good run before we leave for Greenville, I hate them to have 2 days with little exercise.

Thank you all for your prayers and support, which have gotten us this far along this journey ... we could not have done this alone ...

--
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com

Tuesday March 9

Still springtime today ... sunny and low 70's ... husband let dogs out early, Ginger came inside and got AM meds, I then took all dogs (including Mattie again) for a good AM run... then went to work. Husband reports Ginger followed him up and down the hill about six times (he was repairing the dam and hauling dirt with the tractor), then looked tuckered out and wanted to go inside where she snoozed quite a bit. It was quite warm today, all dogs had spring fever and were lolling around, panting. I got home before dark again, took all dogs for evening run, Ginger lively and running beautifully ... oh, I love to watch her run! No quail tonight, but we watched the neighbor in back work one of her horses, which always entertains the dogs ...  Fed and kenneled all, brought Ginger inside for evening meds, scrambled eggs and chicken liver water (Damcat gets some liver water to, yum!) Ginger managed to dip her ears in the liver water, so I had to wash her ears (with the waterless spray shampoo) ... then brushed her as she had some tangles in her feathers. I do wish her fur would grow back, there's a bit of fuzz, but not much ... I was worried in the winter about her being cold, now I'm beginning to worry about possible sunburn and fire ant bites.

Tomorrow Ginger will go to local vet for blood work to see if liver enzymes OK, if so, will go to Greenville Thursday to see if the CCNU brought her nodes down any, if so, will get more chemo. ... Whatever tomorrow will bring, today was another good day for my sweet red girl. Thank you for your messages, prayers, and candles ... let me share one candle message with you all, I thought it was lovely 'For Ginger, who may always run with the wind in her face and love in her heart from one who is praying for her recovery.'  Ah, the wind in her face and love in her heart, yes indeed, that is what I have prayed for, and that is what she has been given...


-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Monday March 8

Yet another beautiful day ... took all for AM run (including Mattie the neighbor dog), Ginger ran half circuit of property, joined us at bottom of hill,  took off Ginger's sweatshirt, took all 5 dogs back up hill to front to look for acorns ... then got food, gave Ginger meds, fed everybody and kenneled my dogs, went to work (had to drive the old truck as my flat tire from yesterday turned out to be unfixable). Return home before dark (and with daylight savings starting next week, we'll have extra daylight, hooray), DB,Banshee and Snoopy met me at gate, went in and changed and got Ginger, took all for evening run (joined again by Mattie), fed and kenneled. Ginger very energetic,  lots and lots of birds to chase, she took off across the back in that beautiful Irish setter lope, ears flying and then came to a dead stop in a perfect 'set' to flush out some (looked like quail, but too far for me to tell) around the wild plum trees ... the early peach trees are blooming, the apples and pears are budding, the birds are nest building, oh, I love springtime, particularly when I get to watch 5 beautiful dogs running and playing in the twilight .... there could be no sight more beautiful to me.

I started these updates when Ginger was first diagnosed and was so ill, I was in despair, searching for a way to ease my pain .... and it  has evolved into a daily meditation on how wonderful life can be if we stop and savor the 'little moments', and will I hope give me strength when Ginger dances over the bridge into the next plane of existence .... thank you all for your help in my journey and Ginger's journey, your prayers and support are making what could have been a horrible experience into one of beauty, peace, and love.



-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Sunday March 7

Goodness, what a lovely day! Sunny, 60's, light breeze ... just delightful. Took off Ginger's sweatshirt, had a good morning run, gave meds, fed and kenneled, went to church, where several of Ginger's fan club asked how she was doing ... I was happy to be able to say 'if she hadn't been shaved, you'd never know there was anything wrong' ... she is back to her pre-illness weight, getting 'fat and sassy', lively, energetic, loving .... Ginger has some of the most expressive eyes (and eyebrows) I've ever seen on a dog (or a person) and right now she is happy, happy, happy, loving the extra stretch of life God has granted to her ... After church cut more branches, Mattie the neighbor JRT joined us, what a nice pack of dogs! This time I had my cart behind the mower, so could carry the branches to the 'burn pile'. Watched helicopter (big one,  'Jolly Green Giant' but not green ) flying really low, I waved, DB barked, Mattie chased after it, Ginger watched in setter stance, Banshee and Snoopy ignored it...) back to the porch for treats and a nap ... all 5 dogs stretched out in the sun .... a good day, despite the flat tire and bird poo my car collected at church (the little things that remind us that no, this ain't heaven ....) Took dogs for final run, fed and kenneled at nightfall. Let Ginger in for evening meds and snack (scrambled eggs, have some ground chicken broth for later on) ... thank you all for your prayers, candles and messages of support, you all are my strength as we watch Ginger dancing through the valley ...


-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Saturday March 6

Sunny but COLD .. windy. Let dogs out for AM run, no problems, gave Banshee sock (one of her favorite 'carry with' toys) and threw ball for Snoopy. Invigorating run for dogs, cold as heck for me (and my allergies are acting up) ... gave Ginger meds. fed and kenneled. let out again around 10, Mattie (the next door JRT) joined us... I don't usually cotton to little dogs, but I love JRTs ... so full of zip and playful (and good rat catchers too) if the neighbor ever wants to get rid of her, she's got a home with me (of course I'd have to put smaller wire opening fence up...)... of course Ginger doesnt 'play', she watches as Mattie runs UNDER her then reappears on other side. DB is expecially cute, she chases Mattie but holds herself back so her nose is just at Mattie's tail, then they run in circles and Mattie jumps over DB. threw ball for Snoopy, found a bunch of 'hidden balls; out in the pine tree section. Banshee steals ball from Snoopy, Snoopy lets her, then steals it back when Banshee not looking. Back after a half hour, too cold for me still ... Ginger is now asleep on the kitchen floor, others milling around on porch, watching the Damcat through the sliding glass door (the Damcat is taking a bath, taunting the dogs...)

I wish I had a video camera and could take a video of Ginger running ... its beautiful to watch, even in her sweatshirt (if it gets warmer today will take it off..) The Irish setter 'trot', the lope, and the canter, her head and tail outstretched ... her muscles rippling, her ears flying ... ah, beauty ...

Warmed up nicely in afternon. Picked up branches, went for several runs, dogs played with the horses in back through the fence, (Ginger and Snoopy touch noses with the horses, Banshee barks, DB runs around in circles) helped husband and worker with fixing busted pipe and wiring, greeted the Net satellite people who came to fix the modem, watched the robins building a nest (uhoh, I love it when the dogs dispatch mice and moles ... but leave the baby birds ALONE!!)  ... fed and kenneled at nightfall. a nice normal day... God is good! It's now been 2 months since Ginger's illness began ... and except for the first 2 weeks when she was in hospital, she has been well and happy. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support!
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Friday March 5

Sunny again, chilly, had a nice AM run, Ginger shot out of her kennel and started the circuit, I gave Banshee a sock and Snoopy one of the NEW balls, all are happy ... DB and Ginger joined us at pond, threw ball for Snoopy, Banshee stole ball, Snoopy got it back, Ginger investigated the ditch, tail wagging madly, DB patrolled the back fence line, all joined me again and we went up front to the acorns (I wonder why they find them so delicious?), then back to ttrailer, gave Ginger meds then fed and kenneled all and went to work. Husband reports all went well today, Ginger snoozed inside off and on, others hung out on porch. Still cold because of the wind ... almost dark when I got home, husband had fed and kenneled, I let Ginger in for evening meds and snack ... a side note here, Ginger no longer 'leaks' when asleep, so doesnt have to wear her diaper inside any more (if anyone has a dog, or person, with this problem, there's an Oriental herb with an Oriental name I cant remember, but it's called 'Golden Book', which works wonders!) Another side note, Ginger and the Damcat got an extra crunchy 'treat' as I left our chicken rollups in the oven too long and the edges were too hard for humans ... but not for dogs and cats.

Looking forward to this weekend, weather is supposed to be nice (sunny and in high 50's ... still cold for SC this time of year, but better, much better) Thank you all for your continued prayers and support for my beautiful red girl...
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Ginger update Thursday March 4

Sunny today, still chilly ... Ginger raring to go, other dogs no problems (threw ball for Snoopy, gave Banshee a sock as I let them out). Had a nice AM run, fed and kenneled, gave Ginger meds, went to work. Husband reports Ginger very lively today, took her sweatshirt off as relatively warm (50's). He took all dogs on several jaunts around property, all getting along fine, except he was brushing DB and Snoopy came up with a ball and DB jumped at Snoopy ... clearly, we need to give the other dogs more attention, they've been so helpful and understanding with Ginger ....  Got back at nightfall, had a dentist appointment that stretched on and on ... did manage to stop by pet store and pick up more food (and more balls for Snoopy), tried to find a tank top that would fit Ginger but couldn't... 3 dogs met me at gate, Ginger inside, got food, fed and kenneled, brought Ginger back in for evening meds. ... she is very lively, craving attention, she and the Damcat ... Damcat jumping in front of computer, Ginger jumping on my lap and putting her paws on my shoulders ... whoops, Damcat just swatted at Ginger ...  so I've banished Damcat to the couch with my husband while Ginger snoozes at my feet in the computer room ... Another good day for my sweet red girl!

Someone mentioned that I had said the chemo wasn't 'working' yet Ginger is doing so well... what I meant was, the chemo has not brought about remission (shrinkage of the affected nodes to normal) ... certainly the treatment Ginger  has brought Ginger back from the brink, and, she is having an excellent quality of life ... as long as the cancer remains 'stable' (not growing again) this will continue ... but, because of the placement of the affected nodes, a slight change could be devastating. This is the reason the vet has treated her so aggressively, using the stronger drugs ... to see if we can get the nodes to shrink. I want to emphasize, to any of you who may now or in the future have one of your pets develop this awful disease ... many many dogs go into remission very quickly, many have no side effects, many stay in remission for years, some apparently never achieve full remission but live for many many months ... the whole thing is very individualized, the treatment protocol varies (though the drugs are the same) ... the main thing I have always been concerned with is quality of life, we've achieved an excellent quality of life for Ginger... of course, I also want it to go on as long as possible ...thank you for all your prayers and support, I believe this is what has made Ginger's continued dance through the valley possible ...
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Wednesday March 3

In yesterday's update, I posted early because of the weather, and some of you didnt get my good news! Oncologist office  called, Ginger's WBC is up to 15,000, which is normal, no need to continue antibiotics!

Today was cold and cloudy. A problem this AM, husband went to let dogs out while I fixed food, as I was feeling slightly ill and running late .... he came to the door with Ginger and Banshee, he had rekenneled DB and Snoopy as after he let them out he went back to close the kennel doors and the dogs followed, causing a 'clump up' ... and Snoopy attacked Banshee. (You may recall a similiar incident frommy Feb.9 post.) Banshee not injured. I let Ginger in, gave her meds, then made mistake of going and letting Snoopy and DB out again, Snoopy tried to jump Banshee again... so. Ginger her usual ladylike self, ignoring the altercations, fading quietly away (reminds me of myself, as this is exactly how I deal with raised voices and unpleasantness, I fade away until it's over)... Enough of this. I kenneled Banshee, left Ginger inside, ran DB and Snoopy, kenneled them, got Banshee and Ginger, fed everybody, awhile later went out and gave Banshee and Ginger a run... Ginger running beautifully today, loping along, ears streaming ...  Let Ginger back inside, went to work. Husband reports he let dogs out in pairs, kept Banshee and Snoopy separated,  (good idea) during the day, then kenneled DB,Banshee and Snoopy until I got home. As it was near dark, and I didnt have time for an evening runin pairs, I took Ginger to kennels then fed everyone, then brought Ginger inside for evening meds. She still ravenous, so I gave her extra canned food and eggs.

Sometimes dealing with a multi-dog household can be difficult. And, I understand the stress all are under, and yesterday with the bad weather they didn't get their usual exercise. Hopefully everything will setle down by tomorrow ... Ginger is doing so well, having such a grand time, but I need to be mindful of the needs of the rest of the dogs too... I've been trying to keep the routine as near normal as I can. Prayers for the rest of my pack, and the Damcat, are appreciated


To those of you who lit candles for Ginger on the candle site at http://www.gratefulness.org , thank you! I am touched by your kindness and compassion, and those flickering lights will surely help protect and strengthen my sweet red girl ... thank you all for your continued prayers and support.

-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Tuesday March 2

Bad weather on the way ... husband got up and let dogs out before rain started, let Ginger in for meds, took dogs on brief run down hill while I fixed food, joined him and fed and kenneled all ... then started raining ... decided to not go on the road to the 'north' today after looking on the Net and seeing the weather pattern, decided to take Ginger on in to town for CBC and to pick up antibiotics before heavier rain got here ... dressed her in her green plaid fleece, got bloodwork done (Ginger her usual ladylike polite self, greeted the other dogs including a beautiful but rude set of goldens, greeted the staff and vet with wagging tail and kisses), she now weighs in at 49 lbs! (this is actually a pound over her last pre illness weight) picked up more Clavamox, stopped and got more coffee (we were out of coffee, not a good thing to be out of in this weather), sandwiches at Arby's (Ginger got the roast beef, no bread), returned home. Let Ginger inside as it is really dreadful out, still no ice but around 36 degrees and rain. Gave her another snack (eggs and ground chicken), called work, yep, they've had icing and sleet there. Glad I decided to stay on this side of the 'freeze line'.

Found a wonderful site on the Net where you can light a virtual candle ... Ginger's candle is at http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/message.cfm?l=eng&cid=10308561.

Good news! Oncologist office just called, her WBC is up to 15,000, which is normal, no need to continue antibiotics!

Uhoh, the rain is turning to sleet and snow .... quick, fix dogs' food, get Ginger medicated, get her out to the kennels .... maybe it'll slack up later, maybe not. Going to post this now in case we lose the Net (or power).... thank you all for your continuing prayers and presence in our lives, I am eternally grateful for your kindness and compassion...


-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/

Monday March 1

Sunny and chilly, not cold ... Ginger in high spirits, runs out of her kennel and starts her 'circuit' of the property, joins the rest of us at bottom of hill. Give all dogs treats, play ball with Snoopy, watch Ginger exploring the drainage ditch (which is dry again ... supposed to rain tomorrow). All dogs inspect back fence line and then check out back side by the wild plum trees (which are budding ... oh, will Ginger make it to wild plum season?? She loves them ... not as much as the wild persimmons in the fall, but a wonderful spring treat .. interesting that the dogs love the tiny little wild plums and persimmons, but dont much care for the 'cultivated' ones..)

We then trot briskly (well, I ride the mower, the dogs trot briskly) to the front and DB,Banshee and Ginger eat some acorns (Snoopy doesnt like acorns)... no mole digging today. Bring them all back, feed, medicate and kennel, go to work. Husband reports Ginger lively most of the day. Oncologist calls me around noon to check on 'our girl', he was worried about her WBC last Thursday and wanted to see how she's doing; when I told him, he said 'she certainly is a fighter'. Yep, she is. He wants her WBC checked again tomorrow to see if improved, if not will switch antibiotics. I also asked him about the hyperthermal therapy one of the women on my email dog cancer list has had on her Lab who isnt responding to chemo, he said to his knowledge it's mainly used for specific tumors (like radiation) and it was still in the clinical triasl stage but he'd chek on it. (I'd be wiling to try this, unlike the radiation, the dog doesn't have to have treatments every day and thus be away from home. But I don't know if it's available anywhere that I can reasonably get to. Well, we'll see.)  Got home after dark, brought her in for evening meds and snack, brushed her, and she's now snoozing.

Next step on Ginger would be March 11 more CCNU (if her liver enzymes are OK and WBC is OK. And if the CCNU she had Feb.18 has worked. I'm not giving her any more if it isn't working, it had too big a whallop on her WBC.) But, for today, my sweet red girl is happy, running, cheerful, eating and loving, dancing through the valley. .. Thank you all for your prayers and support.
-----
Mary Lou
DB,Banshee,Ginger and Snoopy(dogs)
Damcat
Callie in spirit (04/90-06/07)
http://marylouandcompanions.blogspot.com/
http://gingeroftheflyingears.blogspot.com/