Interestingly, I feel better than I have in a very long time. Six years with Karl was about 5 years too long, but although it was disappointingly never romantic, it did provide me with a safe place to heal from my divorce in 2004 and a very traumatic relationship from 2004 to 2007, culminating in my desperate escape from Texas. However, my moving on has been long overdue, and life with Karl had become unbearable, and I was truly miserable. We parted on good terms though, and remain dear friends.
Fast forward from October, when I began to make new friends, also with service dogs, even spending two weeks in Oregon in December, meeting Mark and his 8.5 year old guide dog, in person, and it was just a matter of time (4 months) until I was totally convinced that moving to the Oregon Coast would be a good, healthy, rewarding new start for me. And if these past two weeks are any indication, I was totally right! I am working out, walking almost every day, enjoying the weather, the beach, hiking at a wide variety of places, parks, the Redwoods, and exploring my new surroundings, cultivating new friendships, experiencing joy, eating better, feeling empowered, in control of my life for once, feeling free, exploring new opportunities, with an improved self esteem, energy, while remaining stable, responsible, and with my head on straight.
I do take my medications religiously, and am getting set up with a new general medical provider for my physical problems, as well as a new Psychiatrist, therapist, and pharmacy.
Luke is doing great too, and he benefits greatly from the increased activity, more training opportunities, a less negative home environment, and living with a happier handler along with a wonderful blind man and his guide dog!
Gotta go for now. More soon!
Amy and Luke
Amy, I had just read your post in Sept 2012, when you were filled with such despair. Now you have moved on, literally & psychically. This post is filled with hope & happiness and I'm so glad you're there - both in head-space, and on the Coast. (I am totally jealous of that as I had lived on the California Coast for 4 years and miss it dearly...)
ReplyDeleteHave you trained Luke to be your PSD? (Psychiatric Service Dog) I would not be alive today if it weren't for my PSD Dakota. Although spayed, I know if Kota met Luke, she would instantly beguile him with her long coat, bushy squirrel tail, and thick flashy, flouncing petticoats - she has garnered more friends than I with her beauty!
I hope your life - in all aspects - continues in this positive place you're at now with Mark/Ezra.