When Leaving is Additive

Living in civilization again is amazing. Yes, there is traffic but I am working remotely and so I can plan around it. I miss my wildlife, especially the deer, but I have a squirrel who visits (for walnuts) and I named her Nutmeg

I miss my Montana friends but I visit Missoula for work regularly and so that helps. I also have GREAT friends in this area — I am so lucky.

Being close to these two is a dream come true.

There are so many services here. Trader Joe’s!!! Do you know there is not a single Trader Joe’s in Montana?! The Boise Food Coop is close by and the parks!!!

Sparkle

Boise has so many great parks.

Capella

I am about two miles away from Boise K9 Fitness and Rehab — Sparkle is working with one of their physical therapists. The kids are helping out by encouraging Sparkle during her exercises.

Capella starts dock diving lessons at that place next week 🐟

One of my favorite parts of living here? RECYCLING!!!!!!!!

Pozy

In Montana, I had to load up my recycling and drive it 45 minutes away — and then unload it. I am not sure it was a net benefit to the environment, come to think of it, but that is what I did.

Not here — I now have curbside recycling and I take full advantage. Wheeling out my recycling cart makes me almost giddy.

Rosebud

AND if that were not enough, I have curbside garbage pick-up as well — how modern! In Montana I had to load up garbage and drive it to the can, which was about 1/4 mile away.

I feel so fortunate to have connections to two places — Montana and Idaho — that hold so much and so many that I love. I did not really have to say “good-bye” in order to say “hello” and that is pretty darn awesome.

Capella

Happy Saturday, Friends 🩷

Moonshadow Birthday Continues

Okay — we have our last two Moonshadows! Let’s start with Andy — Jasen shares:

“Andy had a fun year.  These are some Thursday pictures of the walking crew. 

We walk every morning and are joined by others.

 Andy is working on his obedience this year. 

We haven’t entered shows to get titles yet.  But plan to this year. 

Currently he is taking a Foundations Class, Open and Utility class weekly.

Andy is a little shy of new people and can be uncomfortable in new places with his buddy Kaylee.

 We look forward to 2025.”

Thank you, Jasen (and Kaylee) and a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Andy 💙🎂

This is a photo of Moonshadow Kash, courtesy of Jack and Bright Star Fauci.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KASH and thank you, Jack.

Celebrating Maple

Today we get to wish Moonshadow Maple in Montana a very Happy Birthday! Lee and Adri share:

“Happy Birthday to the Moonshadows! Another year has passed, and Maple continues to bring so much love, joy, and personality to our lives. It’s incredible to think about how much she’s grown and the special role she plays in our family.

This year, Maple has remained her devoted, affectionate self. She’s happiest when she’s right by our sides, whether we’re heading out on an adventure or relaxing at home.

Her loyalty is unmatched—she still follows me everywhere often with her paw, chin, or back end touching me as much as possible. It’s clear she just wants to stay close to her favorite people.

Her bond with Sawyer continues to be heartwarming. Their connection has deepened over the past year with playful moments, spontaneous hugs, and shared snacks, they’re truly best friends. Catching a picture of them together is still nearly impossible - they’re always on the move - but the joy they bring each other is undeniable.

Maple’s quirks are still going strong, too. She is quick to let us know when a stranger (UPS driver or neighbor) is going by, but then will always hide behind us for protection. She is also not a fan of Lee's adventures during hunting season - the smells and bulky warm clothing are all a bit too spooky for her, so she stays at home under my legs while he fills our freezer. Her daily choice to sleep on the cool hardwood floors instead of her cozy dog bed keeps us laughing. It’s a funny, consistent reminder of her unique personality.

This year also brought a big change for Maple. After much thought, we made the difficult decision to keep her home instead of bringing her to my practice. While she brought comfort and connection to my clients, the stress of coming to the office was becoming too much for her. It was a hard choice, but it’s been the right one for Maple. She’s thriving at home, where she can fully relax and keep our 13 year old lab, Flannel, some company.

We are so grateful for the gift of Maple and all the love she brings to our lives. Thank you for connecting us with this incredible girl. Happy Birthday to all the Moonshadows—here’s to another year of adventures and love!”

Thank you, Lee and Adri (and boys and Flannel!) for loving this sweet girl and HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAPLE!!! 🎂