Riley and I have been doing some summertime dreaming while we wait for Catie to return from her first round of chemo. We seem to be doing this a lot – waiting for Catie. My husband will bring her home on his way home from work (he works afternoons; I work days). When he headed out the door earlier, Riley was distressed at being left behind (“freaked out” were the actual words my husband used).
Riley doesn’t like change. He’s obsessive about his need for routine. Trips to the park are to be scheduled at the same time, every day. Bitter cold mornings are not to be used as excuses for delayed departures. Meals are to be at 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM; the same kibble is totally fine; a little more in quantity than usual is appreciated. He’s the first one to head upstairs to bed; 9:30 is delightful – any time past 10:00 PM confounds his patience and he spends a great deal of energy running up the stairs and down again to remind us of bedtime. Biscuits – for the most part to be given liberally, at any time – are absolutely expected if anyone says, “good boy.”
Most importantly, under no circumstances whatsoever – Catie is NOT supposed to go anywhere without him going too.
He was overwhelmed with joy and relief when I came through the door.
I don’t like change either. It’s why I’ve lived in the same house for over 15 years and stayed at the same job for 20. There’s a comfort in the familiarity of my surroundings even though it’s all somewhat of an illusion anyways because, although I’ve stayed here, life has changed and marched on despite my resistance. My children have grown and are making lives of their own. I’ve gotten older.
And Catie has cancer.
Riley and I have decided that we hate this disease. To pass the time and cheer ourselves up from a passing moment of gloom, we’ve been listening to peppy pop music (it is true: Riley likes Madonna and Lady Gaga) and looking at summertime pictures and we can barely wait to have more of them. Rick and I will drag out the plastic pool this summer and Catie and Riley will splash and play like they do every year.
Riley:
Catie:
My husband just phoned. Catie’s treatment went well and she was enthusiastically socializing with the staff and other clinic visitors. The vet said if we wanted, Riley could come and spend the day during her next treatment to give her moral support.
Riley and I have decided that summer will come in its sweet time. For now, these moments are quite enough.