Life moves forward

I wanted to share an update you, so that you know John and I's whereabouts. John has made it to the bus station and taking the bus. He's doing well, and is considering finishing this trek after a few months off. There is no set date for this, but time will tell, as he says possibly in (later) Oct or November. He wants to rest, recoup and reevaluate.
I am back in Gunter, Texas and adjusting to life back home. With only being out on the road for 23 days, the adjustment was easier than I thought. I have spent the last couple of days unpacking, settling in, and finding my routine again. Washing dishes is brand new again. Having coffee when I wake up is a delight. And the ability to pick what your going to eat for your next meal is a privilege I cherish. I'm safe every night I sleep, and being back as a team with my husband is my favorite part. We have many animals to care for, and it really is much easier with two people to keep things flowing nicely. The barns stalls, the mowing, regular house maintenance, feeding and caring for our 3 donkeys, 3 sheep, 4 dogs, 5 barn cats, 6 sweet chickens and ourselves, are all part of our day-to-day life that we love. The quiet here (besides the animals voices) is fascinating and calming. It's something I never knew in in life, until we moved to Gunter.
While I was away, David met Lauren in Amarillo to pick up her new Australian Shepherd puppy, Tula. This added a new dimension to the mix of the farm. How would the Great Pyrenees react?  They are guard dogs who let nothing cross the parameter of the fencing. They are always "on duty" and keenly aware of their surroundings at all times. They ensure the sheep, barn cats and chickens are as safe as possible. Don't get me wrong, our 3 (rescue) donkeys are simply amazing at protecting as well. Donkeys are territorial and are masters at chasing down coyotes, foxes and bob cats - if those predators chose to confront the donkeys. Instinctually, the predators know better, as donkeys do not mess around. They are fast, diligent and will not hesitate to protect. Ironically, both our LGD (Livestock Guardian Dogs) and donkeys are all gentle and loving towards humans. Children and adults alike. Our guard dogs and donkeys may sound - or look - "scary", but they have the kindest spirits and desire human love and affection, above anything else. Well, treats are always welcome, too. But a human hand petting and hugging them is preferred.
Where was I? Tula, little 4 month old Tula. A true puppy with little manners yet. She is a work-in-progress with limitless potential. Smart, fun, sweet and with a love for everyone, including any and all farm animals. She is now with us until Tuesday, when I'll take her to the dog trainer. Our dog trainer keeps your puppy (minimum 4 months old, "bigger" dogs only) and trains on-site at her business/home until they have mastered all the basics. Your puppy spends the nights there, and no visits are allowed. No exceptions. The training timeframe is 2 - 4 weeks, depending on the demeanor and nature of your dog, and then YOU are trained on how to be the Pack Leader and take charge of your puppy-who-now-has-manners. And then it's up to you to incorporate and continue these skills your dog now owns. It's life changing. Your puppy no longer jumps up on people, eats when you give  a command, "loads up" into their crate, no (minimal) barking, heels/sits/down and just all the things a 4 month old puppy needs to know at a critical learning point in their life. I'm a big fan. It's life changing for not only your puppy, but for the family. We have two success stories of a Catahoula and Weimaraner who have become their best selves because of this wonderful dog trainer.
So, as Tula awaits her training, unbeknownst to her, she enjoys running around on the farm. In the pasture, with the sheep, chasing chickens (bad girl), playing with the barn cats (who run from her) and loving on the Great Pyrenees, who have accepted her into their world. We did start the crate process with her, and she's accepted it well. So, as the farm is turned upside down by a 20 lb puppy, it keeps things exciting.
My mind continues to ponder "what next"? What are my plans? I'm a little lost and scattered, but I'll sweep up the pieces and put the puzzle back together again. Luckily, it's not a hard puzzle. It's pretty easy, with many options. I'll take time to mull it over, and see where life takes me. My immediate plans are to stay put. I went to yoga yesterday and feel wonderful and strong. I have lost a little weight, and will need to put a few pounds back on. It's hard to stay ahead of the calories when moving 30-40 miles a day. Over and over. I'll go for a run tomorrow, and then I want to get on my bike and ride. Then, yoga again, then, then, then. All in the comfort of my home. Work? I'm not sure of my work status, as I'll need to contact them to see what they have in store for me. I had asked for 3 months off, and so now that's very different. I'm flexible, and will see what happens.
On this beautiful Sunday, I wish you a day filled with love and grace. The lens I look through has changed. I continue to grow and work on myself, in this journey of life. It's forever ebbing and flowing. I am most grateful for a upclose and personal viewing of the New England states. I never knew how amazing it was.......and now I know, and have that movie in my mind, and heart, to forever keep.
I want to thank my family for supporting me, and encouraging me in life. David has loved me, for me always. He is my biggest cheerleader. He is my forever love in life, and we will care for each other til our last breath. And it's such a amazing thing to feel and know that. Lauren has been raised with a Mama who hasn't always been "like the other" moms. She always has a smile on her face whenever I'm desiring to "go out in the world" and explore. She knows me well. Probably the best. She can hear in my voice how I am, and the string from her heart to mine is always there. It tugs and pulls, but never breaks. That string between our hearts is a forever gift from God, between a mother and daughter.
And I so appreciate you for following along with me, supporting me, and listening to my many words. And when things don't go quite as planned, I'll make a new plan. After all, it's not Cyndi's Will be done, but God's Will be done.
Happy Sunday!
Cyndi