CV’s and spiky things

I got an email yesterday from Callum asking me if I could take a look at his updated CV and tweak if necessary. I can’t remember the last time I wrote a CV but it got me thinking, what would mine read now? My days of needing new employment are long gone (I hope), I’m not sure my years as a canine behaviour consultant will be of use in a tiny French village but I’ve definitely learnt a whole lot of new skills. I know how to drive a massive motorhome across two countries, I can hold a belt sander above my head and smooth out a beam at the same time, I can pick-axe a trench through solid clay and expertly apply insecticide to worm-holey planks without spilling a drop. I would add breeding a rather gorgeous litter of Border terriers but let’s face it, Alice did all the work.

A year ago, I would have been packing up boxes bored out of my mind – now most days I fall into bed exhausted. The restlessness is beginning to fade, although I don’t think I am truly settled yet. I’m itching to sit down and start writing but the time just isn’t the right time right now. Once the outside space i.e. bloody pool is done and Mumo is back in the big house then I think the mind will be calmer. I am keeping my fingers crossed that Callum will be here next week, it’s been 9 months too long. There is much to do before then which will keep me occupied, a few beams to be oiled and varnished for starters.

Poor Yogi has to go under the knife again on Tuesday, I found a little lump on his toe. He is such a stoic little bear but one does worry as they get older even if the most likely explanation is a grass seed. I’m going to make sure Denis gets the mower out and razes the evil spikes just in case. The pups on the other hand are loving the bigger pen outside, it’s a bit like letting a load of velociraptors out of their enclosure. They had their first ‘non-adult’ date today as my youngest nephew came round, another lesson to add to their social repertoire. Tigs is a seasoned animal handler even at his young age so the pups were in safe hands and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves. At 6 weeks old now, Alice’s sprogs have all developed very distinct personalities; Sherman the easy-going lump, Sanza the social butterfly, Sabrina aka Daisy the feminine one, Sophia the fiery ‘in the middle of everything’ one, Slim the independent and Salome the smallest and quick-thinking one. First vaccines are booked for the end of the month, time is flying by too fast.

On a final and tearful note, I learnt today that my dearest friend Jude has passed away. Jude was always one of my biggest supporters and I shall miss her wise words and cheeky comebacks. She was a giant in the world of dog rescue and I know her generous spirit will be missed by many. My heart goes out to her family – I won’t post a photo Jude, I know you hated having your picture taken. I shall miss you always xx

“A good friend is like a four-leaf clover: hard to find and lucky to have.” (Irish proverb)