Sometimes, life takes an unexpected turn at the most inopportune time.
I expected to be writing my next Buzz column announcing his new Rally Choice rally title.
But that isn’t what happened.
Buzz assumed an even more important partner role for me last week; one he mastered with as much steadfast consistently as his Rally performances.
And as I type this, I’m very slowly recovering from a nasty flu bug that wiped out my show plans last weekend.
I haven’t been sick in years and this thing flattened me.
I was exposed on Nov. 3 while showing in Flint for Buzz’s 8th consecutive qualifying score and blue ribbon. The symptoms started last Sunday, and escalated from bad to worse as the week progressed. Most of last week was spent parked in my LaZBoy, watching sports and Amazon Prime movies, resting as much as possible, while drinking copious amounts of water and hot liquids.
I had zero energy to do anything.
It’s been many years since I’ve spent this many days feeling really miserable, nose dripping, coughing and sneezing, trying to stay warm under a blanket with a heating pad on my back.
“Nurse Buzz” spent the week curled up in my lap – doing his very doggy best to help me recover.
For hours. And hours. And days and days.
Buzz chose to park himself in my lap, periodically lick my face, and look at me adoringly while trying his very best to make me feel better.
His patience with me was impressive. Especially since he got to do nothing but go out in the dog yard to potty and stretch his legs and get fed two meals.
For the first time in many years, I looked at Buzz in a whole new way … as my partner in recovery and wellness. And his love was unmistakable.
Buzz’s new role involved no treats or fancy rosettes, it came from his heart. And if it’s possible, I think I love him even more now in this new partnership role.
Since this health issue derailed my plans to finish up his Rally Choice title this year; if it’s meant to be, we will accomplish it in 2024.
If not, so be it.
Buzz taught me something much more important last week – through life’s disappointments, something new and even more wonderful can emerge.
