May 2008 – Skelton Sketches

It has been almost 5 weeks since the dog attack and life is returning to a new sort of normal, one not quite so at ease when I’m out and about, but HURRAH! I am able to walk, cycle, and hike trails again and gradually peace of mind is returning as well. Thank-you for your prayers!

I’ve learned a lot about myself, about what it feels like to be a ‘victim’ and how easy it is to stay there becoming more and more self-centered… I have had to tangle with irrational fear and learn to speak “Peace” to my own mind despite the flow of adrenalin triggered by every little thing…And on the fun side, I have learned that I love to watercolor! and to use sign language to accompany worship songs…

This has been quite a learning process and has given me a new empathy for people who have faced really great trauma. I can appreciate now in a tiny way how very difficult it must be to return to ‘normal’ afterward.

I wouldn’t have asked for this experience and yet God has used it for good in my life. I am not the same person I was 6 weeks ago. You have been part of my story. Thank-you. One of the big perks of a crisis is realizing you are loved and cared for, by God and His people.

–LS
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Due to the gracious negotiating skills of our local Animal Control officer, the rottie was put down. We received the welcome news this a.m. as we were finishing breakfast. And we are very grateful! Initially the owner had tried to deny culpability and asserted that she was unaware of the situtation and had been away with the dog that afternoon. So this was a very great turnaround and we give credit to God for this satisfactory resolution. We sympathize with the owner in her loss but know that this was the best solution. The dog weighed in at 180 lbs! and was a giant she could not control. He suffered from hip dysplasia so this was a mercy to him as well.

The calf is still reeling with the wounds and deep bruising. It likes best being elevated and immobile. A walker assists the old lady attached to the calf to limp about when essential. Meals and dishes are no longer essential duties! Going to the powder room is the primary essential. Gardening unfortunately is out of the question. But God is good and He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we could ask or even imagine. He is a merciful and gracious shepherd to calves and their owners! –LS

Month: May 2008

Rottweiler Tales–the sequel

Rottweiler Remarks and Calf Comments