Monday, May 14, it was one year. May 14, 2011, Bob and I went in Wild Thing to Spokane, WA to get Bear. ( Bear in the Air ).

We have all learned a lot this past year. Even in the last month, Bear has changed in ways that suggest that he is still adjusting to being part of the Family Summers. I believe that he knows this is his home, that he is well loved and wanted, that Bob is his family. There are days when I see sadness in his eyes…missing his George? missing his first home? But those times are fewer and further between and short-lived.

I speak to Bear of Karl, Zack and Gus. I speak to him of my great love for him and gratitude that he is my dog. I speak to him of George and his first family and that I understand loss. I ask Bear about Karl, Zack and Gus. I tell Bear that he is a first-rate bear dog! I speak to both Bob and Bear about being kind to one another.

This past year is different than anything I imagined it would be. It has been a good year and I am grateful for every moment of it.