The Otter Pup | Book Chatter

Chloe giving me her winning underbite.

So many of you knew her as “The Otter Pup” so it only feels right to share this sad news here. Chloe was in very bad shape the day before my birthday, Sept 4th. I had to make the tough decision that all pet owners have to make at one time or another. She passed peacefully with the help of an in-home service and I held her the entire time. That’s what she wanted and that is what I gave her.

She had sixteen glorious years and was such a part of our lives. Sure, she was my reading buddy but the care and protection she showed me over my brain surgery and pulmonary embolism recovery was just so damn touching. That pup would not let me out of her sight for fear that I’d faint or fall as I had many times in front of her during that recovery period.

I asked the kids who are both away from home if they wanted me to FaceTime them, they opted not to. I sent them a video of me talking to her beforehand and she seemed to know that relief was coming, she raised her head and put her paw on my arm.

She was the best. She had so much personality and sass. She will always be remembered that way. I can’t wait to have her remains returned to me. I have her favorite corner all ready for her. The house is just not the same.

Hug your babies.

Grab Your Book

Guess what, guys? Today is my Friday! I know some people have to work over the holiday but I think many of you are off. What do you have planned for the long weekend? BBQs? Picnics? Trips to the beach? Initially I thought we might have some people over. At least, that is what The Girl thought. She dreams up these gatherings on her own. Unfortunately, after working all week the last thing I want to do is throw a party of any kind. Call me anti-social. I’ll forgive you.

Right now, the plan is to make a big pot of chili, grill some burgers and hot dogs and watch a bunch of movies. The movies? Haven’t picked them out yet but it doesn’t even matter. Me, in front of the TV with my feet up is all that matters and if that happens, all will be right in the world. I also plan to mix-up some Mint Infused Limeade. We sampled this drink a few weeks ago and it was very refreshing! This drink is non-alcoholic but you could add a little vodka if you wanted to add a little something to it.

Mint infused limeade — Photo & Recipe from Food & Style

Somewhere in all of this we will watch the Nathan’s hot dog Eating contest! It’s a tradition to watch but depending on who is in it, I sometimes have a mini-gag fest with myself. It’s just not attractive to watch a bunch of guys scarf food down in that manner. And yeah, it somehow does not affect our own hot dog eating, which is a little weird if you ask me.

Fireworks? We might all pile into the car last-minute to see the fireworks in progress, but I doubt we will want to after the sloth of the day. None of us like crowds and we have the Otter Pup to consider and she’ll be 4 years-old tomorrow! We knew she was about 5-6 months old when we rescued her so we picked July 4th for her birthday. She has been a joy. I think she likes us too. Can you tell?

The Otter Pup and The Hub — The Otter Pup is 4 years old!

Oh, and I can’t forget the reading can I? That is a huge part of my weekend. Especially since I am still limping along with The Goldfinch. Much more fun to discuss is The Summer of King. I started The Regulators and it’s reminding me a bit of Mr. Mercedes, at least in its opening. It takes place in the summer so it’s the perfect read for me right now. I just want to drop everything to read it. I am not that far in, only about 15% but I can already tell that I am going to like it.

That said, grab your book, pour a refreshing drink and enjoy your weekend!

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