Taking for Granted

I have been thinking about taking things for granted for a while now. With so much tragedy happening to fellow agility folks, it seems fitting to write about it. It's funny how life sometimes socks you square in the face while at other times, it just gives you a little tickle, something you may brush off and not think anything more about.

I realize there are many things I tend to take for granted in my life. I took for granted my pups were strong and healthy. Jack and I campaigned hard to try for a spot in the AKC Invitational for 2012. Then I noticed a little reluctance for him getting in his crate in the car. He must need an adjustment, no big deal. After all, Jack was running the best runs of his life, not only placing in the very competitive 16" division in AKC but winning! 
We went to Dr. Matthews for an adjustment only to find out it wasn't an adjustment problem but a strained Iliopsoas muscle. I took Jack's health for granted. No Invitational for us.


I took for granted both Missy and Aidan as I made the trip to the Mid-Atlantic USDAA Regionals, knowing my steady boy, Jack, would be on the sidelines this time. I had no expectations for my kids, just to enjoy the experience and have fun. I took for granted how competitive both of them can be against competition neither of them should even be breathing the same air. I took for granted that I have three really wonderful pups, each with his or her own special qualities. 


I took for granted I would have a steady job that would always be there. Then in March, my company gave us all the sad news that they were selling off the division I work for. I was safe for now, but for how long. I took my job for granted.  
I took for granted I would be in Connecticut for a long time, enjoying my house, my yard and all my agility friends. But then, knowing my job was on borrowed time, I started applying for jobs not only to earn but to also practice. 

 One of those positions happened to be in Georgia. I took for granted that I would only use this as a practice run. But then, I started talking to the people down there and liking what I heard. I saw how much cheaper housing was down there and started entertaining the idea of possibly move. 
But, nah, that's crazy talk! It's too far, I have a house here, I like all the agility trials I have to choose from and great people to run with. I took my home for granted.
I took my abilities to make such a big move in a very short time for granted. I got the job I never expected to get past the second interview on. I took for granted it would be fairly easy to rent a house for me and my dogs. I took for granted I would be able to sell my house or rent it quickly. 

It wasn't that easy! I am still not finished finalizing a place to live and a house being sold or rented. I took for granted yet again and underestimated so many things! Now my dogs feel my stress and tears they don't understand. Jack doesn't even want to stay in the house any more and prefers to hang out in the yard away from my drama. Missy is trying to stay even closer to me if that is possible and Aidan just doesn't know what to do.
I took for granted how wonderful my pups are, every one of them and how they love me so much no matter what is going on in my life. I took for granted I would be able to stay with them as a family. But maybe not, I might have to leave one or two behind until I can find something suitable for all four of us. 

I took for granted what wonderful friends I have who are so generous in their support and ideas. I no longer feel I am doing this all on my own. I have a great support network in friends, family and acquaintances. I hope I never take any of you or anything for granted again. 
I am going to cherish each run I have with each of my pups, whether in the competition ring or just out for a hike. I am going to enjoy the last few days I have here in Connecticut and savor every minute with such great friends and family. I am going to enjoy seeing Jack run again in agility and see the big smile he always has on his face. 

But, I will take something for granted in the future. I just hope it doesn't take a tragedy or major life event to make me realize I took it for granted.