Reflections on 2010

Lately I find myself reflecting on the last year and I am trying to figure out how to put a positive spin on things. But the truth is, all and all, 2010 left a little to be desired. January started with bogus charges by the Columbia County Sheriff's Department that are still unresolved at the expense of the taxpayers. Those same charges may well start 2011 off on the wrong foot.

In February, my uncle Fritz (mom's brother) passed away in Germany from complications of a blood clot.

In June, Jennifer moved out and informed me that she intends to allow foreclosure of the house and, therefore, the sanctuary. All of my kids need to be rehomed and I have no idea where I am going to live with 20+ cats (if I get the number down to that) and 7 dogs.

In July I began working as a Veterinary Assistant at B & R Veterinary Clinic in DeForest. That turned out to be one of the biggest mistakes of my life. The woman should not be allowed to call herself a vet. So, here I am unemployed again. Also in July, my beloved Ozzie lost his 7 year battle with diabetes and died in my arms.

August didn't get any better. My cousin Gerhard passed away at age 61 from lung cancer and my cherished 12 year old persian, Tucker, died of kidney failure.

In September, my sweet Ace man died at the foot of my bed without any warning. I guess God just thought his time had come.

And then came October 31 when, in the cruelest twist of fate of all, my oldest brother, Roy, died at the age of 55 of a sudden heart attack.

Many lessons were learned from Roy's death and I cautiously believe that my brothers and I listened to those lessons. We seem to have abandoned the idea that we should hate each other. However, my sister Gabby continues to be a lost cause that I have no desire to pursue. My sister, Thairn, and I came together for Roy but, as soon as everyone left and she had the opportunity to attack, she came at me with both barrels. The difference was that, this time, I expected it and I didn't let her hurt me. It's just sad that she felt the need to try.

In November, the world lost one of the funniest men to ever live. Leslie Nielsen died on November 28. And now, 3 days into December, one of the most beloved men ever to wear a Chicago Cubs uniform died of bladder cancer at age 70. Rest in peace Ron Santo.

I know this blog is a bit depressing but I am sure you agree that it would be hard to find the positive in all of these events of a single year. That's not to say that 2010 hasn't had SOME bright points. My great-nephews Collin and Bryce were born and we learned that Baby Fisher and Baby Yakey are forthcoming. And I did get to see Roy only 11 days before his death...a visit for which I will always be thankful. But I think it is safe to say that I am ready for 2010 to end. 2010, according to the Chinese, was the year of the tiger. I have always loved tigers. I had one tattooed on my ankle 17 years ago. But apparently they don't like me. 2011 is the year of the rabbit. Maybe I will have better luck with bunnies...