Family is Family - Fur or Not

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When I was a little girl, my Grammi (my Mom's Mom, Monica), who stood about 4' 11" and weighed about 85 pounds soaking wet used to say, "I always eat dessert first. You know, just to make sure there's room," she'd smile.

She was always imparting wisdom adorably that way. Oh how I miss her. #LoveYouGram

I never got the chance to name a daughter after her as I'd always planned, so she got the next best thing: I named our Boxer Monica. We call her Monnie for short, as that was Gram's nickname.

Even my cousins used to always call her "Aunt Monnie." I'm pretty sure she was their favorite aunt; how could she not be? #HappyMemories

Some people think it's weird that my dog is named for my Gram, but the fact is, I wanted to honor her ... and I love this dog more than words. She is sweet and loving and playful and fun and makes me smile when I'm sad - just like Gram. Besides, Monica is MY GIRL; she's just as much a part of my family as the rest of us.

The point is that, you never stop loving someone who is a part of you. Making a gesture to honor that person, in whatever way you choose to do so, is a something to be admired --- not mocked. #GramKnowsHowIMeanIt 

As for it being an insult to name someone I adore after someone I have adored for 50 years and will adore into infinity...well, that's just silly. My Gram understands the love behind my furry namesake and she's up there smiling, for sure.

And having dessert before dinner, no doubt. #FamilyIsFamily


Jn 10:27 R. Alleluia, alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me. R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Jn 10:22-30 The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter.  And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon.  So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, "How long are you going to keep us in suspense?  If you are the Christ, tell us plainly."  Jesus answered them, "I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father's name testify to me. But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish.  No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's hand.  The Father and I are one."

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