It really is lovely to have Chiquita in my life still. I love walking with her. We walk as companions do, if one stops the other does also. It is so neat. I will miss her so much. She is such a great great friend.

Chiquita was put down a week after Melise went into the hospital. Melise had struggled over this for a long time and had planned for it. Chiquita was about 29 and had been feeling the effects of her age. Melise and Chiquita had been together since Chiquita was less than a year old.

Well, today is cloudy and grey with a strong hint of rain in the air. BUT it is warm and it gives hope and optimism was we are leading into Summer. The birds are singing and more are appearing. I am really looking forward to seeing my barn swallows again. They should be here in the next couple of weeks. I love the swallows, they are so beautiful to watch and are so friendly. Some will actually allow me to get right next to them, or will fly to just above my head or to sit on a stall wall next to me while I work. Fantastic.