I love my friends
I’m posting all of the emails that I sent to my yahoo group as I trained at GDB for my first guide dog. You can look through the archives (backwards) to see the process. Sorry for the typos, but the laptop was tricky some days. Her pictures can be seen if you click the myspace at the bottom of my journal. Below in this entry are some of the supportive and great emails I received while going through the emotional roller coaster of training. Happy reading, and home updates to follow,
~Jess
Monday, May 28, 2007 10:39 PM
Hi, Jess!!
I just wanted to say helloooo and let you know that i loved your update! It sounds so interesting and exciting. I have not been on a visit yet, but I will be sure to get to see the Masochistic Feline soon. I miss you already, but am so happy that things are going well.
Lots of love,
C
Friday, June 1, 2007 10:41 AM
Hi Jess,
it was good to talk with you this morning. I am so excited to meet Rita! She sounds perfect for you.
Love L
Friday, June 1, 2007 11:09 AM
Oh my gosh, Jess! I am so excited to hear more about you and Rita! just can't believe how exciting it is to hear about this even from 3000 miles away!!
Also, I wanted to tell you that I visited Indie yesterday and he was doing fine and after 45 minutes of petting and back-patting and playing he seemed
to be in very good spirits. I will be sure to keep you updated on him. He was very meowy, cute little boy. It is nice to be around my adopted kittie.
I can't wait for the next update on your adventures. Congratulations on your dog, Jess! :) Rita as a name actually really kicks ass. And it will be cool
to have a fierce female to add to your male (though also gay) animal crew back home.
Love,
C
Sun Jun 3, 2007 8:20 pm
Hi from B (L's partner). You and Rita look wonderful together. L has been forwarding your posts and I looked at the pictures today. Can you add me to your group list?
Congradulations on the new member of your family. I can't wait to meet her in person.... Send more pictures!
Mon Jun 4, 2007 11:16 am
Jess,
Even though you have had some hard times, I think you are doing very well with a dog you just met. Give yourself a break and take it a little easier on
yourself. Remember that Rita is going to be your dog, not Mk's, and you will be able to work together for life. Hope you had a great day!
B
Mon Jun 4, 2007 11:25 am
Hey Jess,
You need to remember that you haven't even been with Rita a week yet! AND, she hasn't been with you a week yet either.
I'm sure by the sound of Her responses that she's going to be perfect....eventually. As you pointed out, smart dogs are also usually stubborn dogs. My thought is that after bonding with other people it may take a little while to accept you as pack leader.
Also, She's only two years old. Generally, labs don't grow brains until three. I'm impressed!!
Do they talk about your vibes and the dogs? Are you both maybe feeling slap happy? Try finding a calm center and work from there.
Smart dogs can be so attuned to our emotions / moods.
I copied your pictures to the desktop yesterday , Sandy and Billie came in to see You and Rita. San was so excited for you, Billie too.
I have the Beatles song stuck in my head..Lovely Rita meter maid......
She looks like a big girl! I've always said the Yellow labs are the best seeing eye dogs (next to Sheppards).
Hang in there.
Love, M
P.S. I'll attach a resized enhanced version of what I thought was the best picture of you two. Maybe you can print it out for the puppy raisers.
Mon Jun 4, 2007 4:00 pm
Hi Jess,
as your former teacher, I can say with some insight that you really are a perfectionist. As your other friends have said, give yourself and Rita some time.
Be good to both of you for goodness sake. Fine wine takes some time, just like a good relationship. But it is so worth the work and the wait. I know she will really bond to you over the next couple of weeks, so give yourself the time you both need. She is beautiful, and you two look really good together.
Plus, she is really just a puppy even though she is 2. Right now she's like a 19 year old, and in love with life.
Have a wonderful day together,
L
Tue Jun 5, 2007 5:33 am
Jess, Is Mk a sighted person? If so, then you need to remember that he can see Rita, and knows when she is about to do something wrong. I think you are awesome! You have been able to pick up on Rita's different behaviors without seeing what she is about to do. She seems to be responding to you very well, and by your post, I can tell that she really is trying to learn to be your best friend. Please stop being so hard on yourself. I can't even get my dog (Chip) to stop jumping on me when I come home from school, even though I have had him for two years! It sounds like Rita is doing very well in the "protect Jess from cars" area. Yeah Rita! and Yeah Jess! B
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 10:00 AM
Jess:
I know you're going crazy I can hear it in your typing. Just hang in there, she is absolutely beautiful and I do think the two of you are meant to be together.
She's just had all that time with the trainer; she just needs to realize that you're the trainer now. It will all work out; cannot wait to see you two together. More so, I cannot wait to see how all the other guys take to her, I am so glad she's a girl.
I wish so much I could fly out and be with you for Graduation. Hang in there Lady, it will be ok!!!
Love you,
S
Max, Mo, Sasha and Willy
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 8:17 PM
Hi Jess!
I have been keeping up with your emails and wanted to write one with some encouragement after all the ups and downs you've experienced lately. And I hear what everyone is saying that you need to stop being so hard on yourself, but I also know what it feels like - a bit anyway - to just want to push to get something right. So even though I'm sure you could stand to ease up on yourself, I also want to acknowledge that I am so proud of you for all of the hard work that you are doing, regardless of whether it is too perfectionist or not. I think you are doing fine, just figuring things out as you're going along.
You can probably relax a little, but certainly it's not a pet we're talking about, it is an animal who will be responsible for your well-being so of course this is a wild emotional ride! I also wanted to let you know that even though it is not the same thing, I remember when I used to horseback ride what an emotional and physical roller coaster it could be. It had that element of fear involved, like what am I doing wrong, what is the horse doing wrong, why aren't we connected today and oh my gosh what if something happens because we're not both in synch? I realize the horses are recreation whereas your dog is going to be a companion in your everyday life, but boy do I remember what it was like to be fighting with an animal that has the power to potentially harm you. Not on purpose of course, but just by being an animal who has flaws just like a human being. And even though I haven't ridden in a long time, I do remember that at times my perfectionist self had to let go a little of expectations and feel the flow of working together. It sounds like you two get in the flow sometimes and since she is still learning and you're still learning, it is oh so natural that you too have some disagreeable moments, or parts of the day.... I congratulate you on your courage, because it is definitely a sign of strength that you are riding out the waves of excitement, doubt and curiosity. Whatever happens, I have total faith in your ability to navigate (literally and figuratively!) all that you have to do to make this work best for YOU. I love you and miss you Jess!!!! Keep doin' what you're doin'.
Love,
C
Sat Jun 9, 2007 6:14 am
Hey Jess,
I'm so happy things seem to be going better. I forwarded your post on to my other friend named Jess, who is partially deaf, and who has a hearing dog. She said you could email her any time with any of your concerns. I was telling her about your posts, and your concerns, and she said she would be more than willing to share her insights with you. She has had two working dogs thus far. The most important thing she told me was that no matter what they teach you in training now, eventually you and Rita will find your own way of communicating with each other, and that your dog will always forgive you when you make a mistake. Can't wait to see you both. I think of you often.
L
Sunday, June 10, 2007 5:22 AM
Hi Jess,
your most recent post let's me know that you have really bonded with Rita Pita (I love that one), and it looks to fit her. When we saw your latest pictures, we just wanted to hug and hold both of you, and Rita looks like you could just wrap yourself inside her energy. You both look so much in love, and you my friend look amazing. You look calmer, and more at peace with Rita. And she looks like she is this MOTHER protector, siting there next to you. She looks really serious, like "this is my woman, so don't mess with her." But you can see the love in her eyes. B and I had a yellow lab once, and he was a big lover.
I'm so sorry Rita had to go to the doctor for her ears and eyes. I know you can't help but worry when she gets sick. And I was greatly relieved to read that she is back with you. Like most people, dogs don't like going to the doctor, and they don't like leaving their people. I know she must be just as relieved as you are to be back together.
Well, here in Baltimore, it's been hot and humid. Typical summer. (cut local info)
Well, that's about all the news for now. Oh, and my other friend named Jess, said she is more than willing to talk with you directly, but is not up for the list postings. She does much better with one on one communications. I think that comes from her being deaf.
Take care Jess, and know that B and I are sending a big hug your way, and a big sloppy kiss to Rita Pita.
L
Sunday, June 10, 2007 9:54 AM
Hi Jess:
Not sure if you're getting these extra notes that are not posted; but I hope so. Just really want you to know that you and Rita are in my thoughts and prayers every day and night. This is good to be happening now, instead of when you got her back home. You have everyone there at your beckon call to fix all of her itchy things. Shoot, I'll have to find out exactly what they are doing for her, for I might have to do something here for my lil girl Sashie. She is just one big itch constantly, Doc Girshman is trying it all, I'm trying everything but the pred; I just hate that stuff. So hopefully Rita and Sashie will be itch free soon.
Hang in there baby, you guys are going to be ok; you already have the rough part done - The bonding. You two are meant for each other and she will be fine and YOU too. Take care in San Fran...hee hee
Love you,
S
Sunday, June 10, 2007 3:06 PM
Hey Jess,
It's been such a great experience to read your emails and know a bit of this adventure through you. Thank you for your words! I'm sad - a little choked up and teary even, which is surprising me - to hear about all that Rita (and you) are going through. I do hope everything clears up and is back to energy-filled normal soon.
You mentioned that you'll be walking all over San Francisco soon. With your dog? Will Rita be up for that? Or do you get a replacement? (I don't suppose it's that simple!) Or with the group? With instructors? I ask because my brother, Jason, lives in the city, and though you never met him (or did you? - I know he knows M and T; T wanted to adopt him) he's a super nice fellow and if your time is unstructured I'm sure he'd be interested in joining you for a walk around. Here's either a bad pun or a good metaphor: I think he'd enjoy seeing the city through your eyes. At any rate, here's his cell:. How much longer do you have before you're all graduated and returning home? I suppose it depends on your progress and Rita's health. It would be ridiculous to have a program that's, say, four weeks and then you've either got it or you don't but off you go home bye bye now!
Will you go straight home or do you have any room to see how Rita does on a train trip south for a couple of days? Let me know; you're always welcome!
Best of luck with everything - stay strong Jess!
J (or James, that's what I go by now)
PS - I was hiking yesterday in the local mountains and as I passed an enormous cedar tree by hand went out and my fingers brushed over the bark. So soft and inviting to touch; what incredible trees. It made me remember you.
Sunday, June 17, 2007 9:49 AM
Hi Jess:
Just wanted to drop you a quick hello and tell you I was thinking about you and Rita. We got to see J and J last night; J is very sad about leaving the girls and the farm for Mexico. I felt really bad for her and she was worried about you. She is such a great lady, sure hope they have a great time. I think I'm picking them up from airport on Thursday at 11:30pm, T has to go to work so I offered. I know J wants to go home that night; she said she didn't care if she got home 3 in the morning; she wanted to be with her girls.
We missed you yesterday, I'm sure M has told you about our new buds; Ken and Billie. As of yesterday they got a new bull dog named Buddy or Bubba (they already have a buddy). He was so handsome and a great boy. We all can't wait until you get home and Ken was all excited yesterday cause he thought he was meeting you and Rita. You will love the gang; we all have a great time in the bunker. Gee it is so great to be home!!!
So sure hope everything is going well with Rita and you will be graduating top of your class. Can't wait until you get home!!!
Miss you and thinking about you....
Love,
S
Monday, June 18, 2007 10:57 AM
Hey Jess,
This is so exciting!!! Are you comfortable with all of the training? Can you receive additional training locally if need be? Anyway, I'm really happy for
both you and Rita. By the way, she is beautiful. I showed her to Ms. Chloe and she approved!!
Anyway, if need help going out with Rita until you feel comfortable let me know. I am usually free most weekends and could go out and about with the two
of you. Also, my parents said that we could use their van for our trip to Michigan. I have naked jamboree festival stories as well as ones about Gay Mary.
Can't wait to here from you!
Jen
Monday, June 18, 2007 1:16 PM
Jess,
It sounds as though you and Rita are really working together well even with the issues of trees and poles. As my other friend Jess says, you and Rita will get into your own groove when you get home. I would love to see you and meet Rita when you two have settled in.
B
Tuesday, June 19, 2007 5:06 PM
Jess,
I'm so excited for you! I can't wait to talk to you once you're back east. It sounds like you and Rita are going to be great together, even if it takes a minute longer than the others. Sounds like she has impecable taste in cars. If she continues to demonstrate her affinity for expensive things, we'll get along just great! I can't wait to meet her! Good luck on Saturday, and congratulations. I love you, girl!
K
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 5:28 AM
Hi there my perfectionist friend,
It was fun to read all about your recent outings with Rita. I grew up in a town about an hour away from S.F. and I am intimately knowledgable about Sees
candy. Oh my goddess, I used to get it for Christmas when I was a kid. You are right that it feels the way it is supposed to, and the taste is amazing.
It kind of sounds like you and Rita are working out your own communication style. It must be like starting a new relationship, like lovers learning all
about each others moods, tastes, and interests. I am really looking forward to meeting her, and to welcoming you home.
Lot of love,
L
Thursday, June 21, 2007 6:13 PM
Oh, Jess, I'm sorry you've had a tough time. I wish I could be there to beat people up for you (at least verbally abuse them al little). Hang in there, I know you'll be alright. It's unfair and unjust that someone else is getting your attnetion and time, agreed. Just breathe and remember I love you.-
k
Friday, June 22, 2007 5:48 AM
Hi Jess,
I want you to know how blessed I am that you shared this entire amazing experience with me, and so many other people. Every time I read about the things you are learning, I am stunned by the things we sighted people take for granted. I can't wait to talk with you when you get home, and to meet Rita. I also wanted to remind you how far you have come. You may not be aware of it, but your emails have gone through a steady transition over the last few weeks. Even though you had some really emotional days, you and Rita are obviously working out your own methods of communication, and it's a beautiful thing to see. And that communication will only grow more intimate over time. I was also interested to hear that you are using a clicker. My other friend Jess, is using a clicker to train her "hearing" dog. She is an Airedale named Willa. Jess is doing all the training on her own. Willa is less than six months old, but already working very well in public. I will introduce you and Rita to Jess and Willa when you come home. But for now, just know that I am so proud to have you as my friend.
L
Saturday, June 23, 2007 12:06 PM
Hey, Jess! I'm about to head to work but I just wanted to wish you well for the rest of today and for your trip. Remember: you kick ass for all of your hard work and you and Rita are going to be welcomed back to Catonsville and the outside world with tons of love and support. Please let me know if there is anything I can do before you arrive (I thought about putting some food in your fridge - if this would help you get situated tomorrow, please let me know because I can take care of that before you arrive.) I work until 10pm tonight (my last day at Carmax!) and am feeling a little challenged by the changes afoot but excited too for both my new job and for you coming back with Rita! Stacey says she won't be home until late Sunday so you will have some time just to get yourself oriented without a lot of fuss when you first arrive home. I have many things to take care of this week, but would like to plan some time too to support your new situation, including figuring out the best pooping place and going to UMBC. If there are other things we can set aside time to do them too. I love you and cannot wait to greet you at the airport! See you tomorrow!
Lots of love and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
C
Saturday, June 23, 2007 11:52 PM
Hi, Jess!
I don't know if you'll get this email, but just want to make sure you know that I will take care of food for tomorrow and the all-important half and half!
I caught up on your more recent emails (I had gotten a bit behind) and just want to cheer you on even more for overcoming the various emotional landmines of this transition. Cryin' ain't no problem in my book. It's the fact that you handled your business, got your voice heard and moved on with making your life the best it can be. Right on! I can't wait to see you at baggage claim, you and your wonderful Rita (god, those puppy photos are too awesome).
Also, I visited with Indie on Thursday and he is doing fine. But man will he just about go nuts when he sees you. Wow, you are going to be one loved woman tomorrow. I'm not going to New Jersey after all. I am more interested in having some time to support you in your new situation, plus get my stuff done, plus have a wee bit of time to relax. All will be well! I wish you the best flight and total peace of mind in your transition.
Love,
C
~Jess
Monday, May 28, 2007 10:39 PM
Hi, Jess!!
I just wanted to say helloooo and let you know that i loved your update! It sounds so interesting and exciting. I have not been on a visit yet, but I will be sure to get to see the Masochistic Feline soon. I miss you already, but am so happy that things are going well.
Lots of love,
C
Friday, June 1, 2007 10:41 AM
Hi Jess,
it was good to talk with you this morning. I am so excited to meet Rita! She sounds perfect for you.
Love L
Friday, June 1, 2007 11:09 AM
Oh my gosh, Jess! I am so excited to hear more about you and Rita! just can't believe how exciting it is to hear about this even from 3000 miles away!!
Also, I wanted to tell you that I visited Indie yesterday and he was doing fine and after 45 minutes of petting and back-patting and playing he seemed
to be in very good spirits. I will be sure to keep you updated on him. He was very meowy, cute little boy. It is nice to be around my adopted kittie.
I can't wait for the next update on your adventures. Congratulations on your dog, Jess! :) Rita as a name actually really kicks ass. And it will be cool
to have a fierce female to add to your male (though also gay) animal crew back home.
Love,
C
Sun Jun 3, 2007 8:20 pm
Hi from B (L's partner). You and Rita look wonderful together. L has been forwarding your posts and I looked at the pictures today. Can you add me to your group list?
Congradulations on the new member of your family. I can't wait to meet her in person.... Send more pictures!
Mon Jun 4, 2007 11:16 am
Jess,
Even though you have had some hard times, I think you are doing very well with a dog you just met. Give yourself a break and take it a little easier on
yourself. Remember that Rita is going to be your dog, not Mk's, and you will be able to work together for life. Hope you had a great day!
B
Mon Jun 4, 2007 11:25 am
Hey Jess,
You need to remember that you haven't even been with Rita a week yet! AND, she hasn't been with you a week yet either.
I'm sure by the sound of Her responses that she's going to be perfect....eventually. As you pointed out, smart dogs are also usually stubborn dogs. My thought is that after bonding with other people it may take a little while to accept you as pack leader.
Also, She's only two years old. Generally, labs don't grow brains until three. I'm impressed!!
Do they talk about your vibes and the dogs? Are you both maybe feeling slap happy? Try finding a calm center and work from there.
Smart dogs can be so attuned to our emotions / moods.
I copied your pictures to the desktop yesterday , Sandy and Billie came in to see You and Rita. San was so excited for you, Billie too.
I have the Beatles song stuck in my head..Lovely Rita meter maid......
She looks like a big girl! I've always said the Yellow labs are the best seeing eye dogs (next to Sheppards).
Hang in there.
Love, M
P.S. I'll attach a resized enhanced version of what I thought was the best picture of you two. Maybe you can print it out for the puppy raisers.
Mon Jun 4, 2007 4:00 pm
Hi Jess,
as your former teacher, I can say with some insight that you really are a perfectionist. As your other friends have said, give yourself and Rita some time.
Be good to both of you for goodness sake. Fine wine takes some time, just like a good relationship. But it is so worth the work and the wait. I know she will really bond to you over the next couple of weeks, so give yourself the time you both need. She is beautiful, and you two look really good together.
Plus, she is really just a puppy even though she is 2. Right now she's like a 19 year old, and in love with life.
Have a wonderful day together,
L
Tue Jun 5, 2007 5:33 am
Jess, Is Mk a sighted person? If so, then you need to remember that he can see Rita, and knows when she is about to do something wrong. I think you are awesome! You have been able to pick up on Rita's different behaviors without seeing what she is about to do. She seems to be responding to you very well, and by your post, I can tell that she really is trying to learn to be your best friend. Please stop being so hard on yourself. I can't even get my dog (Chip) to stop jumping on me when I come home from school, even though I have had him for two years! It sounds like Rita is doing very well in the "protect Jess from cars" area. Yeah Rita! and Yeah Jess! B
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 10:00 AM
Jess:
I know you're going crazy I can hear it in your typing. Just hang in there, she is absolutely beautiful and I do think the two of you are meant to be together.
She's just had all that time with the trainer; she just needs to realize that you're the trainer now. It will all work out; cannot wait to see you two together. More so, I cannot wait to see how all the other guys take to her, I am so glad she's a girl.
I wish so much I could fly out and be with you for Graduation. Hang in there Lady, it will be ok!!!
Love you,
S
Max, Mo, Sasha and Willy
Tuesday, June 5, 2007 8:17 PM
Hi Jess!
I have been keeping up with your emails and wanted to write one with some encouragement after all the ups and downs you've experienced lately. And I hear what everyone is saying that you need to stop being so hard on yourself, but I also know what it feels like - a bit anyway - to just want to push to get something right. So even though I'm sure you could stand to ease up on yourself, I also want to acknowledge that I am so proud of you for all of the hard work that you are doing, regardless of whether it is too perfectionist or not. I think you are doing fine, just figuring things out as you're going along.
You can probably relax a little, but certainly it's not a pet we're talking about, it is an animal who will be responsible for your well-being so of course this is a wild emotional ride! I also wanted to let you know that even though it is not the same thing, I remember when I used to horseback ride what an emotional and physical roller coaster it could be. It had that element of fear involved, like what am I doing wrong, what is the horse doing wrong, why aren't we connected today and oh my gosh what if something happens because we're not both in synch? I realize the horses are recreation whereas your dog is going to be a companion in your everyday life, but boy do I remember what it was like to be fighting with an animal that has the power to potentially harm you. Not on purpose of course, but just by being an animal who has flaws just like a human being. And even though I haven't ridden in a long time, I do remember that at times my perfectionist self had to let go a little of expectations and feel the flow of working together. It sounds like you two get in the flow sometimes and since she is still learning and you're still learning, it is oh so natural that you too have some disagreeable moments, or parts of the day.... I congratulate you on your courage, because it is definitely a sign of strength that you are riding out the waves of excitement, doubt and curiosity. Whatever happens, I have total faith in your ability to navigate (literally and figuratively!) all that you have to do to make this work best for YOU. I love you and miss you Jess!!!! Keep doin' what you're doin'.
Love,
C
Sat Jun 9, 2007 6:14 am
Hey Jess,
I'm so happy things seem to be going better. I forwarded your post on to my other friend named Jess, who is partially deaf, and who has a hearing dog. She said you could email her any time with any of your concerns. I was telling her about your posts, and your concerns, and she said she would be more than willing to share her insights with you. She has had two working dogs thus far. The most important thing she told me was that no matter what they teach you in training now, eventually you and Rita will find your own way of communicating with each other, and that your dog will always forgive you when you make a mistake. Can't wait to see you both. I think of you often.
L
Sunday, June 10, 2007 5:22 AM
Hi Jess,
your most recent post let's me know that you have really bonded with Rita Pita (I love that one), and it looks to fit her. When we saw your latest pictures, we just wanted to hug and hold both of you, and Rita looks like you could just wrap yourself inside her energy. You both look so much in love, and you my friend look amazing. You look calmer, and more at peace with Rita. And she looks like she is this MOTHER protector, siting there next to you. She looks really serious, like "this is my woman, so don't mess with her." But you can see the love in her eyes. B and I had a yellow lab once, and he was a big lover.
I'm so sorry Rita had to go to the doctor for her ears and eyes. I know you can't help but worry when she gets sick. And I was greatly relieved to read that she is back with you. Like most people, dogs don't like going to the doctor, and they don't like leaving their people. I know she must be just as relieved as you are to be back together.
Well, here in Baltimore, it's been hot and humid. Typical summer. (cut local info)
Well, that's about all the news for now. Oh, and my other friend named Jess, said she is more than willing to talk with you directly, but is not up for the list postings. She does much better with one on one communications. I think that comes from her being deaf.
Take care Jess, and know that B and I are sending a big hug your way, and a big sloppy kiss to Rita Pita.
L
Sunday, June 10, 2007 9:54 AM
Hi Jess:
Not sure if you're getting these extra notes that are not posted; but I hope so. Just really want you to know that you and Rita are in my thoughts and prayers every day and night. This is good to be happening now, instead of when you got her back home. You have everyone there at your beckon call to fix all of her itchy things. Shoot, I'll have to find out exactly what they are doing for her, for I might have to do something here for my lil girl Sashie. She is just one big itch constantly, Doc Girshman is trying it all, I'm trying everything but the pred; I just hate that stuff. So hopefully Rita and Sashie will be itch free soon.
Hang in there baby, you guys are going to be ok; you already have the rough part done - The bonding. You two are meant for each other and she will be fine and YOU too. Take care in San Fran...hee hee
Love you,
S
Sunday, June 10, 2007 3:06 PM
Hey Jess,
It's been such a great experience to read your emails and know a bit of this adventure through you. Thank you for your words! I'm sad - a little choked up and teary even, which is surprising me - to hear about all that Rita (and you) are going through. I do hope everything clears up and is back to energy-filled normal soon.
You mentioned that you'll be walking all over San Francisco soon. With your dog? Will Rita be up for that? Or do you get a replacement? (I don't suppose it's that simple!) Or with the group? With instructors? I ask because my brother, Jason, lives in the city, and though you never met him (or did you? - I know he knows M and T; T wanted to adopt him) he's a super nice fellow and if your time is unstructured I'm sure he'd be interested in joining you for a walk around. Here's either a bad pun or a good metaphor: I think he'd enjoy seeing the city through your eyes. At any rate, here's his cell:. How much longer do you have before you're all graduated and returning home? I suppose it depends on your progress and Rita's health. It would be ridiculous to have a program that's, say, four weeks and then you've either got it or you don't but off you go home bye bye now!
Will you go straight home or do you have any room to see how Rita does on a train trip south for a couple of days? Let me know; you're always welcome!
Best of luck with everything - stay strong Jess!
J (or James, that's what I go by now)
PS - I was hiking yesterday in the local mountains and as I passed an enormous cedar tree by hand went out and my fingers brushed over the bark. So soft and inviting to touch; what incredible trees. It made me remember you.
Sunday, June 17, 2007 9:49 AM
Hi Jess:
Just wanted to drop you a quick hello and tell you I was thinking about you and Rita. We got to see J and J last night; J is very sad about leaving the girls and the farm for Mexico. I felt really bad for her and she was worried about you. She is such a great lady, sure hope they have a great time. I think I'm picking them up from airport on Thursday at 11:30pm, T has to go to work so I offered. I know J wants to go home that night; she said she didn't care if she got home 3 in the morning; she wanted to be with her girls.
We missed you yesterday, I'm sure M has told you about our new buds; Ken and Billie. As of yesterday they got a new bull dog named Buddy or Bubba (they already have a buddy). He was so handsome and a great boy. We all can't wait until you get home and Ken was all excited yesterday cause he thought he was meeting you and Rita. You will love the gang; we all have a great time in the bunker. Gee it is so great to be home!!!
So sure hope everything is going well with Rita and you will be graduating top of your class. Can't wait until you get home!!!
Miss you and thinking about you....
Love,
S
Monday, June 18, 2007 10:57 AM
Hey Jess,
This is so exciting!!! Are you comfortable with all of the training? Can you receive additional training locally if need be? Anyway, I'm really happy for
both you and Rita. By the way, she is beautiful. I showed her to Ms. Chloe and she approved!!
Anyway, if need help going out with Rita until you feel comfortable let me know. I am usually free most weekends and could go out and about with the two
of you. Also, my parents said that we could use their van for our trip to Michigan. I have naked jamboree festival stories as well as ones about Gay Mary.
Can't wait to here from you!
Jen
Monday, June 18, 2007 1:16 PM
Jess,
It sounds as though you and Rita are really working together well even with the issues of trees and poles. As my other friend Jess says, you and Rita will get into your own groove when you get home. I would love to see you and meet Rita when you two have settled in.
B
Tuesday, June 19, 2007 5:06 PM
Jess,
I'm so excited for you! I can't wait to talk to you once you're back east. It sounds like you and Rita are going to be great together, even if it takes a minute longer than the others. Sounds like she has impecable taste in cars. If she continues to demonstrate her affinity for expensive things, we'll get along just great! I can't wait to meet her! Good luck on Saturday, and congratulations. I love you, girl!
K
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 5:28 AM
Hi there my perfectionist friend,
It was fun to read all about your recent outings with Rita. I grew up in a town about an hour away from S.F. and I am intimately knowledgable about Sees
candy. Oh my goddess, I used to get it for Christmas when I was a kid. You are right that it feels the way it is supposed to, and the taste is amazing.
It kind of sounds like you and Rita are working out your own communication style. It must be like starting a new relationship, like lovers learning all
about each others moods, tastes, and interests. I am really looking forward to meeting her, and to welcoming you home.
Lot of love,
L
Thursday, June 21, 2007 6:13 PM
Oh, Jess, I'm sorry you've had a tough time. I wish I could be there to beat people up for you (at least verbally abuse them al little). Hang in there, I know you'll be alright. It's unfair and unjust that someone else is getting your attnetion and time, agreed. Just breathe and remember I love you.-
k
Friday, June 22, 2007 5:48 AM
Hi Jess,
I want you to know how blessed I am that you shared this entire amazing experience with me, and so many other people. Every time I read about the things you are learning, I am stunned by the things we sighted people take for granted. I can't wait to talk with you when you get home, and to meet Rita. I also wanted to remind you how far you have come. You may not be aware of it, but your emails have gone through a steady transition over the last few weeks. Even though you had some really emotional days, you and Rita are obviously working out your own methods of communication, and it's a beautiful thing to see. And that communication will only grow more intimate over time. I was also interested to hear that you are using a clicker. My other friend Jess, is using a clicker to train her "hearing" dog. She is an Airedale named Willa. Jess is doing all the training on her own. Willa is less than six months old, but already working very well in public. I will introduce you and Rita to Jess and Willa when you come home. But for now, just know that I am so proud to have you as my friend.
L
Saturday, June 23, 2007 12:06 PM
Hey, Jess! I'm about to head to work but I just wanted to wish you well for the rest of today and for your trip. Remember: you kick ass for all of your hard work and you and Rita are going to be welcomed back to Catonsville and the outside world with tons of love and support. Please let me know if there is anything I can do before you arrive (I thought about putting some food in your fridge - if this would help you get situated tomorrow, please let me know because I can take care of that before you arrive.) I work until 10pm tonight (my last day at Carmax!) and am feeling a little challenged by the changes afoot but excited too for both my new job and for you coming back with Rita! Stacey says she won't be home until late Sunday so you will have some time just to get yourself oriented without a lot of fuss when you first arrive home. I have many things to take care of this week, but would like to plan some time too to support your new situation, including figuring out the best pooping place and going to UMBC. If there are other things we can set aside time to do them too. I love you and cannot wait to greet you at the airport! See you tomorrow!
Lots of love and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
C
Saturday, June 23, 2007 11:52 PM
Hi, Jess!
I don't know if you'll get this email, but just want to make sure you know that I will take care of food for tomorrow and the all-important half and half!
I caught up on your more recent emails (I had gotten a bit behind) and just want to cheer you on even more for overcoming the various emotional landmines of this transition. Cryin' ain't no problem in my book. It's the fact that you handled your business, got your voice heard and moved on with making your life the best it can be. Right on! I can't wait to see you at baggage claim, you and your wonderful Rita (god, those puppy photos are too awesome).
Also, I visited with Indie on Thursday and he is doing fine. But man will he just about go nuts when he sees you. Wow, you are going to be one loved woman tomorrow. I'm not going to New Jersey after all. I am more interested in having some time to support you in your new situation, plus get my stuff done, plus have a wee bit of time to relax. All will be well! I wish you the best flight and total peace of mind in your transition.
Love,
C