Things are somber around our house.

For the last few days, Prissy has been rapidly losing ground. She has become lethargic and will stand, staring at absolutely nothing for hours on end. You can move and she never notices. Krl is positive that Prissy's body is shutting down.

I had set a goal, selfishly, for Prissy to make it to April 22. Her birthday. She would be 18.

Krl and I have talked, and yesterday she called our veterinarian, and we have a 10:30 appointment to take Prissy in and have her euthanized.

I have a lump in my throat, and a weight on my chest as I try to come to terms with this.

The pups both know something is going on, and while they had "bullied" Prissy in the last year (they really got in trouble with Krl when they tried that), they have been very affectionate and caring the last few days.

It is going to be an adjustment. We have gone from five Standard Poodles to four, to three to two to two and a miniature Poodle to two and miniature Poodle and miniature Spitz. To one and the two miniatures.

Krl has told me she already has plans for finding another Standard Poodle, when we are ready.

During Krl's and my marriage, we have had Rachel, Sadat 1, Shadow, Duchess, Sadat 2, Lady Rachel, Prissy, Brandy and Phoodoo. All but the first two and the last two were a little family within our family.

Have a day.

FATHER, bless this day and the decision Krl and I have made concerning Prissy. We thank YOU for her and the joy and comfort she has given us.