Thankful #1 - Jazz

Thanksgiving is only one week away! The theme for November Greeblepix photo contest is Thankfulness. Over the next week I want to share some of the things I am thankful for, starting with my photo entry.

This is Jazz. He is 17 years old, and last week stayed in the animal hospital for 5 nights to address a kidney problem. Visiting him at night, both arms were shaved, with two IVs and bandages wrapped around them. But he was so happy to see us, so loving and so much to tell us. Jazz came home but was getting progressive worse and we had to put him down today to stop his suffering. He will be greatly missed but never ever forgotten.

I am thankful for our pets. For their unending love. For the attention they give you and the attention they seek. For looking into their eyes and seeing that they are dependent on us. For knowing that no matter what mistakes you make in your life, no matter what ups and downs you are experiencing, they are there to cuddle up next to you and offer unconditional love. All of our pets-past and current-bring me such joy and I am so very thankful for them. Even though we outlive our pets, they make just as much of an impact as any person, and are just as much a part of the family. I am thankful for the ability to hold onto all the memories of my previous pets, and Jazz will be no exception.

Finalists are announced on Thursday, you can see other entries and vote HERE.