Sir Ailbe, Born To Serve: Sir Ailbe Knight's Journey

Sir Ailbe Is A Dreamer

Today begin at a very early 5:30 AM. After meds I got Ailbe up for an outside walk. Success, but I'll have to go back in the daylight to pick up his little package. When I returned to the room we both went back to sleep till breakfast which was around 6:45 AM. Ailbe was also given his new food amount of an extra half cup (he wouldn't finish it till around lunch).

After I got cleaned up and dressed it was time to do our future morning walk/run. I left the ward around 9:30 AM (had to find his night time droppings first and that was a success). They have this cool, old walkway that looks like a track. It has a lot of curves and loads of fun to drive the scooter on. After a couple laps it was time to extend his leash (love that the leash goes from an off shoulder to an eight foot lead) and let hm do what comes naturally. Total success and then after a quick pick up we were off for another run. I run/walk four laps in one direction and then turn around and do another. He absolutely LOVES the quick pace. The eight laps are about one mile.

Then we sat on the patio and talked to a visitor who was here from Texas. Her 21 year old Marine Grandson was in a horrible vehicle accident and had just woken up from a coma. He's got a long road ahead of him for he can go home. Ailbe is such a magnet of love toward people that he just had to meet and greet. After an hour of being outside we headed back to the ward.

Then it was back to my room to watch one of my shows. Ailbe was out like a light from his morning run and it was lunch time. So far the food here is HORRIBLE!! I only eat about 4 bites of everything and then quit eating. At least the Phoenix VA did have some positive and that was their food. You could choose your menu everyday. So, a little weight loss is not going to hurt me.

After the lunch tray was taken it was time to go out for another outside break. Then back to the room for a nap. I'm woken up so early in the morning that by 1 PM you're ready for a nap. Ailbe got up and snuggled with me. I went out fast and then had to make a quick dash (a quick dash for me is getting into a wheelchair and getting into the bathroom as fast as you can - LOL). Then back to the bed and Ailbe finding his spot to cuddle. This time he did some talking and turning his head as if he was carrying on a conversation. After one and half hours Ailbe had to go out. So,buzz the nurses, get the assist from wheelchair to the scooter before getting out the door. This will be our life for the next several months. His main tasks at the moment are picking up drop items. He's nailed everyone of them and I'm so proud. His mobility tasks are on hold till I can walk on two feet. I'm hoping to add to his retrieve tasks.

The best thing that was said today was what my new evening aide had to say. They couldn't believe how quiet Ailbe was in the room. They couldn't believe a dog was even on the floor. Now that made me feel awesome.

Dinner arrived and went over to give Ailbe his new 2 cup amount. He ate all of it. As I was eating dinner Ailbe got up in bed and I told him "Leave It" which he knew meant -- NO TIDBETS!! So,he just went to sleep while I ate. Then back out for another mile run and successful potty break.

At 6:30 PM it was time to head to BINGO which tonight was sponsored by the local Lions Club. I only won $2 tonight and that was from the guy who won on my left. So far I've won $10 and its going toward something special in the Retail Store.

Then it was back out for another outside break at 8 and 11 PM. Goodnight all and I'll be chatting to you again.