July 4, 2011 11:45 PM

Happy 4th to all!

It was a bittersweet weekend for us. Yesterday, upon returning home in the morning and opening our mail, we learned that our dog that we had given away two and a half years ago had to be put down this past week. Even though we had not seen him over that time span, his new owners had constantly updated us with pictures so that we were still considered to be "surrogate" parents.

But, more to the point, we knew that we had chosen the right people to take care of him when thay returned the check that we sent monthly to pay for his shot for his Addison's Disease which he has had for the past seven years. They have been wonderful to him and, in his own way, he was wonderful to them as well. They are heartbroken just as we are; but, you have to look at all the positives over the years as you knew that eventually the day would come when he would no longer be around. Tomorrow would have been his eleventh birthday.

To celebrate his life and love we have decided to take that last check and use the money to go out to dinner at the restaurant at Canterbury Shaker Village where they frequently went to walk with him. Regis' life has come and gone(I can't cry, but I'm still emotionally upset by the news) and left us with many stories and memories. Our friendship with his other owners has blossomed and continues to grow. There is always a silver lining somewhere in that black cloud.

The rest of the day yesterday was great as we spent it a July 4th(3rd) party given by the brother of a friend of ours. He does this every year but that has been the first time in four years that we have been able to make it. The opportunity to connect with peopl ethat we haven't seen for a while was wonderful and gave us a chance to somewhat forget about the earlier news that we had received. Fine people, fine food, and fine weather - the recipe for a perfect day and fond memories.

Today was a relaxing day spent here at home and then, later in the day, we had a friend over for a simple barbecue, some wine, and some chit chat. A fine way for people of our age to celebrate our country's birthday.

Certainly not a "quiet" weekend with fireworks going on all around us. However, it's another holiday that I've had the opportunity to see. Each day is a blessing in its own way and I thank God that I'm able to be able to say(check that, write) that.

God bless America...

Bob