Where I've been… and why.
I don’t normally talk about my daily life. I guess I’m private that way. But I feel I need to clear some things up. I’ve been seriously lacking lately in reading your blog posts. I know this and I’m doing the best I can to rectify this. There is a good reason for it though. One of my dogs– Gideon, I’ve talked about him before– is gravely ill.
He’s been sick for a few weeks, but took a turn for the worse six days ago. Without going into detail, he requires massive amounts of my time while I attempt to keep him alive, with a quality life. At the same time my other dog, Cascius, is seething with jealously. So I try to give him extra attention. It’s both physically and emotionally draining. 
As such, everything else falls to the wayside. Family first. It’s a must.
I wish this wasn’t the case. I wish Gideon would magically bounce back, return to being healthy, running and playing. I wish I could leave him for a few hours to see my granddaughter, too. She’s growing so fast and we’re missing it. But the sad reality is I don’t know how much time he has left, could be days, could be weeks. When I do get a break I read to escape the horrors of my reality. Books are magical in that way. Don’t you agree?
So, I haven’t abandoned you. I always have and always will support you in any way I can. I just need a little time to deal with the ones I love. I think everyone can understand that.
I do have some exciting news, a surprise guest appearance by the author of six critically acclaimed thrillers, who’s also written two of the best craft books I’ve ever read. A must for every writer’s toolbox, IMO. I’ve also added some new links on the crime writer’s resource page and added menu items. More on all that later. For now, I’ll hold you in suspense.
25 Comments
franwritesstuff
All my love to Gideon! We’re going through something similar with our oldest, Star. Just treasure the time you have with him. Family always comes first. <3
Sue Coletta
Thank you, Fran. I’m sorry you’re going through this, too. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Give Star a big kiss from me. I hope she improves. <3
franwritesstuff
It’s such a sad time. But love is the important thing. Kisses all round!
Sue Coletta
Hear, hear!
Nicholas C. Rossis
I’m glad Gideon pulled through those critical first couple of days. Any time spent with him now is time well-spent 🙂
Sue Coletta
Thanks, Nicholas. My vet now calls him the dog with nine lives. We’re hopeful he continues to improve.
Nicholas C. Rossis
Lol – so funny 😀
emaginette
I get it. Hope he feels better soon. 🙂
Anna from Shout with Emaginette
Sue Coletta
Thanks, Anna.
jazzfeathers
I’m so sorry, Sue. I’ve gone through this too and I’m really so sorry.
Sue Coletta
Thank you, Sarah. It sux. But we’ll get through it. Today he had a pretty good day. One day at a time, that’s all we can do.
Kevin J. Hotter
Sorry to hear, sue! All my best, and give Gideon a big hug from me. I love dogs!
Sue Coletta
Thanks, Kevin. Will do. He gets so many lately, but I’ll specifically designate one from you. I’ll see you on your blog tomorrow. Jumping back into my book to escape for a while. 🙂
Marcia
Aw, Sue, I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through this. People who don’t have pets will probably never understand the role they play in our lives. Over the decades, I’ve said goodbye to way too many of them, and some, I still get choked up about losing. There are always one or two that are extra, extra special, though of course, we love them all. I’m thinking about you, and sending you all the positive energy I can. And a big virtual hug, too. Don’t forget to take care of yourself while you are dealing with all this stress. The blog can wait for now. You have more important things to deal with.
Sue Coletta
Thank you, Marcia. I do tend to forget to take care of myself. My whole focus is on Gideon. But Bob’s been extra great lately so I can rest a bit in between emergencies/accidents/etc. We have all been here before, which is why I figured I’d share this with y’all. <your word. 🙂
Brenda Lee
Sending prayers to Gideon, Sue. I hope he gets better soon!
Sue Coletta
Thanks, Brenda Lee!
Margot Kinberg
I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through this, Sue. My heart aches for you; I’ve been there, myself. You’re absolutely right that family comes first. We’ll be here when you’re ready for us again. In the meantime, thoughts and well wishes to all of you…
Sue Coletta
Thank you, Margot. I really needed to hear that today.
coldhandboyack
That’s so sad. I’ve been through it multiple times. Watching them age and fade is emotional and trying. Don’t sweat the blog. I share enough personal information for both of us.
Sue Coletta
It makes you feel so helpless. Sux. Thanks, Craig.
Ha! You are quite the sharer.
coldhandboyack
It won’t be too many years and we’re going to need to re-dog. Ours is getting older and slower these days. I feel for you.
Sue Coletta
“Re-dog” Priceless!
coldhandboyack
I have to. Sometimes he’s the only one who likes me. I claim no copyright over re-dog, you can use it all you like.
Sue Coletta
Hahahaha!