Navigating Life's Tough Lessons

It is with a heavy heart that we share a difficult announcement and explain our absence. The past few months have been filled with tears, uncertainty, and poignant moments as we navigated a challenging chapter in our lives. Our sweet Genesee, our loyal and loving 11-year-old German Shepherd, was diagnosed with cancer and has since crossed the rainbow bridge.

When we first found out, the news hit us hard, and the subsequent months were a rollercoaster of emotions. The type of cancer she was diagnosed with was, unfortunately, inoperable. Despite the grim prognosis, we were determined to make her remaining time as comfortable as possible. Genesee embarked on a course of chemotherapy to manage bleeding caused by a mass, coupled with the addition of Chinese herbs and mushrooms to her regimen. Miraculously, she responded well, surprising even her doctors, since she was only given 4-6 weeks, but survived almost 4 months.

This journey opened our eyes to the incredible healing power found in the herbs and fungi that naturally grace our beautiful planet. It's a realization that has prompted us to rethink aspects of our lifestyle, but that's a topic for another blog.

The transition has been particularly challenging for each member of our family. Our 9-year-old, the gentle soul with dreams of saving the world, grapples with the unfairness of why animals, like our dear Genesee, do not live as long as humans. For her, not having her lifelong companion by her side every day is heart-wrenching.

Our 4-year-old is still grappling with the concept of death, and we've attempted to provide comfort by explaining that Genesee is with the angels in heaven. Though unseen, she will remain their protector and guardian angel forever. Even our 2-year-old German Shepherd is missing her dear friend, showering Genesee's collar and toys with kisses, despite her confusion over why she cannot find her friend.

Genesee has always held a special place in my husband's heart, being his faithful sidekick on countless road trips, off-roading adventures, and everyday escapades. Her illness hit her hardest during one of his deployments, leaving them both longing for each other's company, but thankfully he made it back home to savor every moment together. She has been with me through thick and thin, from job offers to pregnancies, many of those times my first confidant, and has been a constant source of joy and companionship for our entire family.

As parents, it's excruciating to witness our children grapple with the loss, and all we want is to alleviate their pain. To see their tears, to hear their hurt. It all just breaks my heart. We have loaded a digital picture frame with all pictures of Genesee to help us cherish and reflect on the countless memories we've shared.

In the midst of this emotional storm, our homeschooling journey took an unexpected turn. We delved into the specifics of Genesee's cancer, exploring the impact on different parts of her body. We turned to our faith, seeking solace and trust in God's plan, even when it seems unfathomable. Our studies have seamlessly incorporated lessons from The Good and the Beautiful Fungi Study, enhancing our understanding of how mushrooms aided Genesee's immune system.

Life's lessons are not always found in textbooks; sometimes, they unfold in the most unexpected and challenging moments. As we navigate this difficult time, we appreciate the understanding and support of our friends and family.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.