Update

My lady and I were incredibly moved by the many expressions of concern we received over our incapacitated Hell-hound Bella, and by the donations for her recovery.

As it turns out, although she does have a lump on her stomach which appears to be a tumor (probably cancerous), her current problems do not appear to be the result of a spreading cancer. The X-rays and blood work both told a story of surprisingly normal dog innards. So her current problem may be gastroenteritis, possibly worm-related.

We aren't out of the woods yet. The doctor wants to have the tumor surgically removed within the month, so we are saving up for that procedure. And that's what the donations will go toward. We were moved to the point of tears by the help offered by Cannonfire readers. I have a reputation as a crusty, unlovable old crank, so please don't tell the world that I get all choked up over a quadruped.

What is it with love, anyways? Why do we let ourselves love anything or anyone? When we give our hearts, we assure laceration marks all over our souls. The cuts don't come right away, but they do come, through loss and illness.

I never had children. If a child of mine had to go through something like this, I'd be so frantic I'd forget how to breathe or walk. You who are parents -- my god, how do you do it?

Well, this day is a lot easier than yesterday. "Thankful" is too small a word to describe how I feel toward all of you. Happy Independence Day.