Taking A Break To Save Grace

I have recently had to make the hard decision to take a break from the blog. It is not a decision I come by lightly. The blog has been a true source of creativity, passion and connection for me and I have loved every second of it. However, in late September my constant companion Gracie Lou was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors told us that we needed to make an immediate decision about whether to take our chances with brain surgery or let Gracie go. Josh and I decided to give Gracie a shot at survival and opted for the brain surgery. Now, several months after the surgery and radiation treatments, we are spending a majority of our time tending to Gracie’s post op needs. It has been time consuming, worrisome and often heartbreaking but I am determined to give Gracie everything I’ve got to help her heal. She has been an incredible source of comfort, companionship, loyalty, love and joy for me from the moment I adopted her and I know in my soul I owe her as much as I can give in return. So, something else must give if I am to make Gracie a priority in an already busy, kid filled life. Since I can’t really table the whole mothering thing, it is the blog that must take a back seat. Every day brings with it minor but important improvements in Gracie’s behavior and health and I am hopeful that by the new year she will be back to her old self and I will be back to sharing all my Heavenly Days inspiration with you! Thank you for your continued support, your good wishes and your loyalty. May this holiday season bring you an abundance of peace, joy, love and laughter. See you in 2018!

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106 Comments

  • Mon

    recovery soon !!! They are a great person .. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year !! blessing and health
    Kiss from Argentina

    December 1, 2017 at 12:10 pm Reply
  • Lauren

    Poor Grace! How lucky is she to have such a devoted mum?

    Wishing her a speedy recovery, and you and yours a Merry Christmas.

    December 1, 2017 at 12:41 pm Reply
  • Erin

    Praying for you Grace! Hoping for a speedy and smooth recovery!

    December 1, 2017 at 12:43 pm Reply
  • Monica

    Aw Katie, don’t worry about us we’ll be here when you can come back for the blog. I hope everything goes well for Gracie and that she’ll get back to her normal sweet self
    Happy Holidays to you guys and sending tons of good vibes for you all

    December 1, 2017 at 12:44 pm Reply
  • Betty

    Dear Katherine, we will wait for You Take care of Grace – she needs You. Please try treating Grace with DMSO. I heard good thing about treating dogs tumors with it. Keep faith. Sending love

    December 1, 2017 at 12:56 pm Reply
  • Teresa Smith

    This is what we do for our furbabies! I have a 12 year old cockapoo, Emerson. Our days together are coming close to the end and I am cherishing every second. Do what you have to for your family and your sweet pup. Wishing you the happiest of holidays and keeping you close in my heart as you take care of your Grace.

    December 1, 2017 at 12:57 pm Reply
  • Rosita desde Canada

    Wish Grace has a soon recovery!!.. also wish to you and your beautiful family Merry Christmas and all the best for 2018..

    December 1, 2017 at 1:19 pm Reply
  • Melanie

    It’s so heartbreaking when our pets suffer! We just adopted our second dog (an older chihuahua) and it’s such a honor to be able to love and care for him. I will be praying for a Christmas miracle for your family.

    December 1, 2017 at 1:29 pm Reply
  • Heidi

    Thank you for showing your compassion and devotion for your Gracie, it’s never easy to have a pet going thru illness and we are here to do all that we can to make them better because they are very much a part of our family. Looking forward to your blog next year and how everything will work out. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

    December 1, 2017 at 1:48 pm Reply
  • Tammie Franer

    I’m so very sorry about Grace and pray she has a speedy recovery. Love & prayers to your family!
    My Max was diagnosed with a brain tumor in June and he is 14 years old and would not survive the surgery. I love him so much he’s such a huge part of our family! Trying to control his seizures with meds with not much luck.
    Prayers for Max & Grace ❤❤

    December 1, 2017 at 1:48 pm Reply
  • Jackie Roisler

    I truly understand, my thoughts and prayers will be with you.

    December 1, 2017 at 1:58 pm Reply
  • Felicia

    Please don’t apologize for doing what you need to do for your family and for Gracie! We love your honesty and your heart Know that my prayers are with you and your family!

    December 1, 2017 at 2:01 pm Reply
  • Syuzanna

    Dearest Katherine,

    Thank you for sharing yet another personal piece of your life! I wouldn’t expect less from you in this situation! I wish fast recovery and healthy happy years to your puppy ( I call all dogs puppy)! I have no doubt that your healing love is doing its magic and soon you will be able to harvest the fruit!
    I have a Yorki/ Pomeranian myself and would do the same for him! They are more than dogs, they become best friends, they comfort without words and feel our pain and happiness!
    May the holiday joy keep your spirits high!
    Love,
    Syuzan

    December 1, 2017 at 2:06 pm Reply
  • Leslie

    Sending Grace warmest wishes for her recovery! There is no greater love, I think, than that of pets and their human parents and those who are truly “parents” treat their loved ones the same as any human child, so your decision and devotion makes total sense :). May everything go well and may you and yours have a wonderful holiday and a lovely New Year.

    December 1, 2017 at 2:10 pm Reply
  • Nina Gregory

    It broke my heart to watch your video and see the pain you are feeling as it hits home all too well. Two weeks ago we found out our loving Golden has cancer that has metastasized and is inoperable. The type of cancer doesn’t respond to chemotherapy as well so we are going day by day like you are. He won’t eat unless I hand feed him and he has days where he can’t keep anything down but right now we are having more good days than bad…like you we are trying to give him as much of a chance to live as possible as long as it’s quality.

    You will be in my thoughts and I hope neither of us have to make that difficult decision for our loving fur family any time soon ❤️

    December 1, 2017 at 2:14 pm Reply
  • Christine

    Katherine,
    I’m so sorry you’re going through this. My dog is our 4th child. I often say we have 3 human kids and 1 furry one. Please….your family comes first and foremost. You are one of the few celebrities that actually have family values. You’re a great wife and mom. Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Hope to have a wonderful Christmas and a New Year filled with health and happiness.
    Christine

    December 1, 2017 at 2:21 pm Reply
  • Cheryl Storie

    I say if you have the resources you do everything you can!! Pets are our family. Prayers for Gracie and to you for the strength. God Bless

    December 1, 2017 at 2:45 pm Reply
  • Robyn

    Wishing Gracie Lou a speedy recovery and lots of happy healthy days ahead. My pup Peter was recently diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and it’s been very difficult. I too have decided to put everything on the back burner to be present with him and give him the love and care he needs. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family…furry members included!

    December 1, 2017 at 3:14 pm Reply
  • Mia Alvarado-Alvarez

    Dear Katherine and Family,

    As I read the news about Gracie Lou it solidified the type of human being you are. It takes a special person to place the needs of family,others and the love to a beloved companion such as Gracie. Those of us that have had a special friendship and love with a pet know that their love is so unconditional towards their family. When we are happy, they are happy, when we suffer, they suffer and why not be there for them and in return provide them with the love, companionship and security they provide for us. About two years ago, we lost two companions within six months. Reyna (nineteen years old) a beautiful black sheep dog we had since she was a pup. And Simba a beautiful terrier/sheep dog mix only five years old to throat and stomach cancer. It was the worst feeling in the world.

    I believe things happen for a reason. And if Gracie Lou was adopted by you for a better life why not provide a good chance at living. We did everything we could for Simba and miss him dearly wishing there would have been more for us to do. Take care of yourself, loved ones and Gracie. Enjoy this time away to breathe and recharge. Happy hol days to you and your family. May the New Year bring health, love and prosperity in 2018!

    Best Wishes,
    Mia

    December 1, 2017 at 3:41 pm Reply
  • Jolene

    Sending you lots of love and prayers to you, your family and beautiful Gracie Lou. Praying that Gracie finds health and peace quickly.

    May you have wonderful holiday season with your family.
    love and peace,
    Jolene

    December 1, 2017 at 3:42 pm Reply
  • Michele

    It is hard to make the decisions on these types of treatments. I hope that you have a wonderful, blessed holiday season with your entire family and that Gracie continues to improve and love you in everyway you love her.
    M

    December 1, 2017 at 4:07 pm Reply
  • Lynda Chamblin

    My heart is just breaking for you! My prayers are with you & totally understand what your going through! Take care of yourself & will miss you but look forward to the new year❣️ Again all my love & prayers to you Katie♥️♥️♥️♥️

    December 1, 2017 at 4:09 pm Reply
  • Cassandra Stewart

    Try Sacred Frankincense Oil by young living oils. It helped my dad with cancer. Just a thought

    December 1, 2017 at 4:18 pm Reply
  • Cathy

    Sounds like you know exactly what you need to do and you should have no regrets. Grace is lucky to have such devoted “parents” and I’m sure she feels your love. Prayers for you, your family, and most especially , Grace!

    December 1, 2017 at 4:19 pm Reply
  • Tracy Eadie

    Your compassion for Gracie is so heartfelt. Wishing a speedy recovery and excellent quality of life. Get Well Soon!

    December 1, 2017 at 4:30 pm Reply
  • Christine Bello

    Love your articles and I am so sorry about your Grace, but it sounds like you are giving her a great second chance. YL Frankincense Essential oil is safe for dogs and this would be an amazing oil to have her on along with her other meds. Frankincense his high in Sesquiterpenes which have the ability to break the blood/brain barrier and clean damaged cells and shrink. If you have any questions please email csbello@msn.com Praying for a totally recover for Grace!

    December 1, 2017 at 4:38 pm Reply
  • Klaude

    You break my heart dear girl. Sobbing all over my keyboard right now ;( Donèt apologies for knowing where your priorities should be, you are such a beautiful soul, we will all be here when you return and have the time. I am heartbroken for you. Grace seems like the sweetest thing ever. We lost our golden last year and it was heart-wrenching so I totally understand how you are feeling and wanting to save little Grace. Youère lucky to have each other. Treasure this time with her and be well. Sweet little Grace will be in my prayers. Sending you some virtual hugs filled with health & energy and blessings. xoxo

    December 1, 2017 at 5:30 pm Reply
  • Traci Gendron

    My heart breaks for Gracie. We can certainly wait for the blog to start up. I will keep you all in my prayers. That Gracie does well, you get a nice break, and time with your family.

    December 1, 2017 at 6:33 pm Reply
  • Erin Ortiz

    This story breaks my heart. Sending love and prayers for Gracie’s recovery. XOXO

    December 1, 2017 at 6:40 pm Reply
  • Erin

    This breaks my heart – sending all of my positive thoughts to Gracie and your family. <3

    December 1, 2017 at 6:45 pm Reply
  • Maína

    Her eyes say a lot!!! Hope she gets better soon and you and your family have a wonderful and blessed Christmas!
    That is what I wish all the way from Brasil!

    December 1, 2017 at 6:53 pm Reply
  • Andrew

    This is absolutely tragic. Best of luck to you and your family, I hope Grace makes a quick recovery! Love from the UK.

    December 1, 2017 at 6:59 pm Reply
  • Vicki

    Prayers for Gracie. You are doing the right thing. We would do anything for our furry family members — just as they would do anything for us.

    December 1, 2017 at 7:28 pm Reply
  • Tricia

    Prayers for your beautiful Gracie to heal quickly and completely ♡
    Will miss your blog but truly understand!
    Hope your Christmas and New year will be filled with many blessings!
    Until then thank you soo much ♡
    Tricia

    December 1, 2017 at 7:36 pm Reply
  • Heather Cruse

    I’ll be praying for Grace and your family. I cannot imagine what you’re going through. She’s so lucky to have you caring for her. We have four dogs. My heart breaks for you!

    December 1, 2017 at 7:44 pm Reply
  • Helen M.

    I hope Grace recovers soon! She’s lucky to have you and your family taking care of her. If she can be saved, I’m pretty sure you’ll do it!

    Stay warm and have happy holidays. I hope Santa grants all your wishes!

    December 1, 2017 at 7:57 pm Reply
  • Danielle G.

    Katherine,

    We lost our family dog to cancer 12 years ago. Surgery was not an option for him. I wish Gracie Lou a speedy recovery. Animals become such a huge part of our lives and I feel that they give us so much in return for what little we give them. My thoughts go out to you are your family.

    December 1, 2017 at 8:03 pm Reply
  • Ely Portilli

    Dear Katherine don’t worry about us. We’re gonna be here waiting for the big news about Gracie’s heal. Happy holidays ❤

    December 1, 2017 at 8:04 pm Reply
  • Lana

    Prayers to your Gracie, hope she gets well soon

    December 1, 2017 at 8:31 pm Reply
  • Raven

    Poor baby sending all of my positive thoughts to Gracie and your family.

    December 1, 2017 at 8:36 pm Reply
  • Sharon

    Having little dogs myself I completely understand how you feel. We had a major incident with one of ours a few years ago. Thankfully she pulled through and I hope your little Gracie does too, she’s such a sweet little baby. Take all the time you need…your followers will still be here when you come back. Good luck and fingers crossed for a happy outcome x

    December 1, 2017 at 8:40 pm Reply
  • Sally Williams

    Katherine,

    My heart aches and the tears fall as I read this. I lost my cat, Brodie, last September to cancer.
    He had a tumor in his sinuses and we treated with radiation as it was inoperable. My husband and I spent the 13 months after treatment just loving and spoiling him and I’m sure you will do the same.
    Gracie Lou is so lucky to be a part of a wonderful loving family ❤️
    Thank you so much for sharing your story as it’s so important for people to understand how difficult this is and how they are not just pets but members of our families.
    We started a non profit in memory of Brodie and help families pay for cancer treatment, as you now personally know it’s all very expensive and out of reach for many families.
    Cherish everyday and know that you have the Williams clan in NJ sending love and light to you and your family, especially Gracie Lou.
    I will also be sending Reiki her way
    Love and hugs,
    Sally

    December 1, 2017 at 8:53 pm Reply
  • Jami

    Thinking of you as you go through this. It is so hard when one of your animals is no longer has a good quality of life. I hope that she continues to progress positively. Merry Christmas to you and your family.

    December 1, 2017 at 9:06 pm Reply
  • Cindi Dervisevic

    Wow…as tears flow I will be sending loads of prayers and furbaby thoughts to you and Gracie. Have a safe and wonderful holiday season.

    December 1, 2017 at 9:09 pm Reply
  • Mandy

    Ohhh, sending healing powers to lil Gracie. It’s clear she’s getting the best of care and is living in such a loving home! Best to you all!

    December 1, 2017 at 10:04 pm Reply
  • jacqueline luna

    ALL OF YOU, TAKE CARE…

    December 1, 2017 at 10:06 pm Reply
  • Cathy P

    Praying for her all good. I can do reiki from a distance if you would permit me to. ( studied as a reiki master ) I would need you to allow that.
    Cathy

    December 1, 2017 at 10:14 pm Reply
  • Rachel Mullin

    Poor girl, but lucky girl to have a family who loves her as much as she loves them.

    December 1, 2017 at 11:01 pm Reply
  • Erin H

    I’m wishing the best for your future baby!

    December 1, 2017 at 11:26 pm Reply
  • Teresa Smith

    Heartbroken for you, and so in agreement with the approach you are taking to Grace’s illness. She is so precious. Wishing you a peaceful and happy holiday. Looking forward to 2018 as well!

    December 2, 2017 at 12:02 am Reply
  • Rita Stojanovic

    Katherine,
    I cried as I watched your video. Grace is so lucky to have you. Our pets are like family and it hurts our hearts when they become sick. I will most definitely keep her in my prayers. Stay strong and do all you can. God bless you for being you.

    December 2, 2017 at 12:16 am Reply
  • Tammy

    Grace is so lucky to have you and your family! My heart aches for all of you, such a hard thing to go through, but what a gift you are trying to give her. We will miss your posts, but you are doing the right thing for you, your family and Grace right now. Thanks for sharing your life with all of us, and for sharing this very personal time with Grace. She is precious!! God’s Blessings upon you all! Hugs from SW MN.

    December 2, 2017 at 12:46 am Reply
  • Jillian

    So sorry to hear of this, our fur babies having any suffering is so heart wrenching, prayers for your sweet girl and all of you. We will be fine out here, you are doing the right thing. Beautiful Grace.

    December 2, 2017 at 1:33 am Reply
  • Hannah

    Wish you and your family all the best. Lots of love and prayers from MO!

    December 2, 2017 at 2:09 am Reply
  • Susie

    My heart breaks for you and Grace. I know what it’s like to love a dog as much as your children basically. Praying for you both.

    December 2, 2017 at 2:22 am Reply
  • Lonnie Parmelee

    Katherine and Family hope your little fur baby heals. Should know that God has a place for all of his creatures. Will be here when you and all of your family are ready. Merry And Happy Holidays.

    December 2, 2017 at 4:09 am Reply
  • Lara

    Wow— my heart is breaking with you….I totally get it. I have my little girl that is my everything— my husband passed a year and a half ago. She is my loyal buddy.. you are all in my prayers…

    December 2, 2017 at 4:16 am Reply
  • Lisa

    Sending Grace love, light and healthy vibes. I hope she makes a swift recovery.

    December 2, 2017 at 5:54 am Reply
  • Jennifer

    My prayers are with you and your family during this heart-wrenching time.

    December 2, 2017 at 2:14 pm Reply
  • jami

    Sending all of you and Grace much love and good thoughts. Our love for our pets is like any other – so glad you are there to comfort her.

    December 2, 2017 at 3:28 pm Reply
  • jami

    Sending you all and Gracie love and good wishes. Our love for our pets is like no other – so thankful she has you there to comfort her.

    December 2, 2017 at 3:53 pm Reply
  • Megan

    So sorry to hear this about your Gracie girl. My heart is so heavy and full at the same time. She is so lucky to have you as her family. Please take all the time that you need to be with her; we’ll be here when you’re ready to return. In the meantime please know that you and Gracie and your family will be in my prayers!!! XO

    December 2, 2017 at 5:36 pm Reply
  • Lori Laukart

    God bless you Katherine and Josh and especially little Gracie. You all have my love and prayers. ❤️

    December 2, 2017 at 9:20 pm Reply
  • Sherryl

    Katherine,

    So nice that you are returning the love and care that your fur baby has given you and your family. As I am dealing with a slightly sick and elderly fur baby myself at the moment, I only know too well how much worry and focus it can take. Wishing a speedy recovery. Your fans will be here when you are ready.

    Thanks for continuing to share so much of yourself. Clearly you are a good and kind human being.

    Hugs,

    December 3, 2017 at 12:42 am Reply
  • Pamela Millsaps

    I’m So Sorry About Grace. You, Your Family, And Grace Will Be In My Thoughts & Prayers. I Watched The Movie Un4gettable Earlier Tonight, And Tweeted About It & Looked Up Your Twitter Account To Post My Tweet &This How I Found Your Blog. Anyway I’m So Sorry About What You Are Going Through Right Now. I Have Always Admired You, You’re An Amazing Actress & I Now I Know For Sure What An Amazing Human Being You Are. Your Kindness & Humanity Are A Rarity In This Age. ❤

    December 3, 2017 at 2:45 am Reply
  • Beth

    Sending love. We are dealing with the exact same thing here in Calgary but we are told that no one does small dog brain surgery here. My heart is broken. Loki stayed by my side while I lost baby after baby during our fertility struggles. The pheno seems to control the seizures but they come in clusters. I struggle with how far do I go because I cannot imagine a world without him for a second. We are fortunate that a year ago they told us maybe 3 months but it’s been 14 months and he’s still here. He struggles some days but then I see a sprinkle of his personality come through and it gives me hope . My husband takes daddy duty some nights while I’m bathing and cleaning him after a rough day but I feel like I’ll just know when it’s time. You will too, she will tell you. We are their moms and we will know. I admire you posting this and I cried all the way through it. For you , for me, for our kids who have to be explained to . For the fear that our husbands feel because they know what’s going to happen to us when our dogs lose their battle and they will have to be our strength and both parents for awhile. But today our dogs are alive and tomorrow is not promised but we made a commitment to love them and fight for them and we are honouring it, as hard as it is. I send you my love and any strength I have left when my house is quiet and I know he’s ok tonight . It’s yours.
    Your a good mommy and she knows you love her .

    December 3, 2017 at 3:27 am Reply
  • Brittany

    Truly hoping Gracie recovers quickly and fully. Whatever happens, your love for and faithfulness to her is a kindness and gift to her.

    December 3, 2017 at 11:25 pm Reply
  • Bonnie M

    Wishing you and your family healing and happiness in this holiday season! So often people do not understand the lengths that we go through for our “pets”, but they are just another family member who we have to take care of. Christmas helps us all to focus on the important things; Find joy in the small things this season.❤️

    December 4, 2017 at 12:31 am Reply
  • terry

    God Bless You and Your Family.
    Have a Merry Christmas, looking forward to hearing from you in 2018…
    Praying for Gracie’s full recovery!

    December 4, 2017 at 1:54 pm Reply
  • Cynthia

    I am so sorry you are going through this. Gracie is a lucky puppy to have someone who loves her so much.

    December 4, 2017 at 2:07 pm Reply
  • Katherine

    Sending you best wishes over this difficult time xx

    December 4, 2017 at 4:27 pm Reply
  • Val

    I love you Katherine. All the best to you and your beautiful family for the holidays. I am sending positive thoughts and lots of love from Bowmanville, Ontario to sweetie pie Grace. You are so wonderful to give her all the love a little girl can have. I pray for her to have a full recovery.

    December 4, 2017 at 7:56 pm Reply
  • Donna

    Take all the time you need. We will all be here when you get back. Prayers for Gracie and the family

    December 5, 2017 at 4:11 am Reply
  • Carolyn Dudley-Smith

    Katherine,
    My gosh I just cried how deeply we feel for our pets, all the healing, get better vibes, love, hugs and kisses Gracie, and much love to you to Katherine your doing a great job. ❤️

    December 5, 2017 at 12:53 pm Reply
  • Gina Obray

    I’m so sorry to hear about Graces trials! You could not have taken her to a better place! I live in Utah and my vet sent me there with my Iguana. Dr. Mathew Johnston treated her with radiation and put a port a cath in her for her chemo back in Utah. She was in remission almost 7 years. I totally understand you wanting to do all that you can for your fur baby. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t have done for my girl Teko. Unfortunately I had to let her go this past February. She was almost 11 years old. I miss her everyday. I still have cats, a dog and a bird, all that I love dearly. I love knowing that your love of animals is so strong! I’m keeping your sweet Grace in my prayers and sending healing vibes her way!

    December 7, 2017 at 4:29 am Reply
  • Ryan Philyaw

    Aw poor frankenpup! Well Gracie is a part of your family…all of our animals are and when they hurt and are in pain we do everything to help them. They give you so much!! Your video is heart wrenching and being a young mom with so much on your plate, your holidays should be about bringing everyone close and enjoying the now. Much love for your family over the holidays we are all saying special prayers for your family and Gracie.

    December 7, 2017 at 1:38 pm Reply
  • Natalie

    We all understand and love you Katherine! Sending prayers your way. Have a merry Christmas

    -natalie

    December 7, 2017 at 2:43 pm Reply
  • Holly Jenkins

    Sending prayers for Gracie & the entire family! I completely understand your love, concern, and desire to do everything in your power to help your sweet little pup! My God bring you all abundant love, joy, and peace throughout the Holidays!

    December 8, 2017 at 11:23 pm Reply
  • Lorena F.

    I LOVE YOU!!!

    December 9, 2017 at 5:19 pm Reply
  • Lorena F.

    Her sensitivity to people and animals is beautiful. I admire you!

    December 9, 2017 at 5:46 pm Reply
  • Eva Alcantara

    Hello! Katie, been so busy with life just open your blog message now! Oh sad news to your companion Gracie Lou, Thanks God everything’s done for her to bring back to the best of health… Looking forward to her full recovery… God heals and bring back her best health and continues enjoy the best life with your family! Love goes to all of you… Catch up to your Inspiring blog on Great 2018! God Protect & Bless Us All! Mabuhay! from Philippines… Love & Prayer, Eva Alcantara

    December 11, 2017 at 6:43 am Reply
  • Carina

    Saving Grace! I like that.

    Someone once said that Gods grace is what fills the gap between what is possible for us and what He requires of us.

    May God grant you the strength and the wisdom to fill the gap for Gracie.

    December 11, 2017 at 7:10 am Reply
  • Lucinda Poahway

    I can say I’ve been where you are. I had a dog name Jack-Jack. He was a terrier. Loyal, loving, just so my companion, friend. Well, he too had a brain tumor. I saw a knot on his head, thought maybe somebody had kicked him and it was swollen. had no idea it was a tumor. I went on vacation, my brother fed Jack and watered him while we were gone. When I came back he said Jack disappeared in the house. When I called and called I heard some whimpering, he came and curled up next to me and I didn’t know it was a seizure had never seen it in a dog. The tumor had gone into his brain. I thought he was dehydrated and fed him water through a tube. I took him to the vet that next Monday, she kept him overnight, said it (tumor) had got into his brain and I should make a choice. I just couldn’t see him suffer, I loved him so. She asked me if I wanted the family to come and say goodbye she would wake him up and then put him to sleep for eternity. I said no, I knew my heart couldn’t take it. I knew if I saw him I couldn’t put him to sleep and it would grieve him not to be near me. Bless you and will pray the Lord surround you and your family to have strength to take care of her and see her thru.

    December 16, 2017 at 7:22 am Reply
  • Lisa Simpson

    Oh my goodness I am so sorry. I am sitting here crying. I hope and Pray that your little Grace will recover from this. She is such a little sweetheart. I look forward to when you come back to your blog. I hope you have a safe and Merry Christmas.

    December 18, 2017 at 12:20 am Reply
  • Lisa Simpson

    Oh my goodness, I am so very sorry to hear about your sweet little Grace. I hope and Pray that she will recover and start to show signs of improving. You definitely need this break to be with Grace. I hope you and your beautiful Family have a and Merry Christmas.

    December 18, 2017 at 12:24 am Reply
  • Gina

    Sending healing thoughts and prayers to Gracie for a full recovery, you are doing an amazing service to such a sweet girl .

    December 18, 2017 at 8:25 pm Reply
  • Julie

    Katherine, I also have a senior long haired chihuahua. Our Daisy is such a part of my life that I understood completely when you began to cry. I cried right along side of you. I became ill about 8 years ago and Daisy adjusts her behavior to mine. Good day? Then we are up and playing and fun. Bad day? She’ll lie along side me for 24 hours without moving unless to go potty. They are amazing. She’s not just an dog, she’s my family. I love her and I know you love Gracie. I’ll be praying for Grace and for you. Best wishes for a lovely holiday season spent with your family… including Grace.

    December 22, 2017 at 5:05 am Reply
  • Yvonne

    I have been a quiet reader of your blog for nearly two years now. Having a baby boy at the same age of yours, your blog always fills me with so much joy, creativity, but also admiration for you as a person. It is heartbreaking for me to read Gracie’s story (I am actually crying while writing this I have to admit). I am wishing you all of the very best and all the strength that you and Gracie may need. I will keep her in my thoughts every single day. Have a very wonderful christmas. I am admiring you for all the love you are giving her and I am sure she is more than thankful for that! Sending waves of love over the big ocean … warm regards from Germany

    December 23, 2017 at 2:15 pm Reply
  • Heather MacKay

    Oh, my! My heart aches reading this – je te donne mon coeur, as we say.
    I had a cat who had a stroke at 7 yrs of age. She walked in circles for a while and had trouble eating/drinking, too. I had finally gotten both my cats off wet food when it occurred to me her sense of smell may have been affected. So, back on the wet food, but warmed up in the microwave. This way, the aroma was stronger and she ate! She lasted a few years like this, getting better. Though never quite back to herself, we all adjusted to the new her very well. Her name was Juliette Inez, or Booppie Dipper Doodle Day, as I called her. Her patient companion, who, ironically, passed before she did with a stroke (!) was Coco Charlotte. I wish you well, she knows she is loved and you know she loves you. Really, that’s all that matters.
    Do take care and try to enjoy some moments called Christmas!

    December 24, 2017 at 2:36 pm Reply
  • Danielle G.

    Hi Katherine,

    I have loved seeing your twitter posts. 🙂 I hope you and your family had a very merry Christmas. How is Grace doing? I hope that she has improved and that she is able to drink water on her own now and that her continuous pacing has stopped. Grace and your family are in my family’s thoughts and prayers. Take care and all the best in 2018.

    December 28, 2017 at 8:56 pm Reply
  • Danielle Baker

    Hi Katherine! We are all keeping Gracie in our prayers. Happy Holidays to you and your beautiful family!

    December 31, 2017 at 5:14 pm Reply
  • Jane

    I lost my dog in August 2017 after almost a two year battle to keep him healthy. In August, I made the decision to put him down after a horribly painful experience that was going to make his life not a good quality one. It was he hardest thing I have ever had to do. He was my shadow. He was the best friend I have ever had and always showed me comfort and unconditional love. I am so sorry for what you are going through. I am still having a hard time without my little baby. I will keep her healing in my prayers.

    January 1, 2018 at 11:59 pm Reply
  • Amy

    Saying prayers for your sweet little dog. I can empathize with the level of heartbreak that one experiences when a beloved pet becomes ill. Personally, I don’t even call them pets because they really are your children. Wishing her a fast, pain-free recovery and comfort for you and your family through such a difficult time.

    January 3, 2018 at 12:25 am Reply
  • Maddison

    Aww I’m so sorry I hope she gets better soon!! You will definitely be in my thoughts and prayers!!

    January 3, 2018 at 11:58 pm Reply
  • Iris Alicea

    Que hermoso es ver lo dedicada que eres con Grace. Las mascotas son un hermoso regalo. Que se recupere pronto. Dios te bendiga a ti y a tu familia. Saludos desde Puerto Rico.

    January 4, 2018 at 12:20 am Reply
  • BARBARA SINCLAIR

    Hello Katherine – any updates on beautiful Grace. Happy New Year to you and yours x

    January 6, 2018 at 10:43 pm Reply
  • Kimberly

    How is Grace??!!?? Hope you enjoyed your holidays!

    January 9, 2018 at 1:20 am Reply
  • Gabriela

    You are a warrior katherine , i felt the same circunstances that you came threw about this situation, just with faith and the strenght of your family miracles Could happen , dont stop dreaming and believing is the mot powerful force in the planet

    January 9, 2018 at 3:45 am Reply
  • Cassondra Brotzman

    Prayers that Gracie is getting better your video brought tears to my eyes Praying for Gracie everyday Godbless you and your family love ya

    January 9, 2018 at 7:54 am Reply
  • Annette Osnos

    Oh my, having loved animals so deeply like you I know this is a hard journey. Wishing Grace love and no pain in the days ahead. It is clear you guys are doing EVERYTHING you can. She knows it.
    Sending tons of good karma, love and peace.

    January 9, 2018 at 2:52 pm Reply
  • Jennifer Wiley

    How is Grace?? Love and Licks to her…

    January 9, 2018 at 3:11 pm Reply
  • Micki Butler

    Wishing Gracie a quick recovery! I love our dogs too, and my prayers go with you all.

    January 12, 2018 at 10:00 am Reply
  • Patricia

    Hi Katherine,

    How is Gracie doing now with her recovery?

    Wishing you and the family all the best for 2018.

    January 13, 2018 at 6:50 am Reply
  • Ivona

    Dear Katherine,
    I have started to follow your blog just a couple days ago. I love your work and I have been one of your biggest fans like forever!
    I hope that Gracie is doing better now and that she is well. I have an old cat and he is like a family member. We adore him.. So I could imagine how you feel…
    All the best for you, your family and Gracie.
    Love, Ivona

    January 16, 2018 at 9:03 am Reply
  • Mandy Whitehead

    Hi Katherine

    Beautiful and graceful Gracie is in my prayers for a full recovery. Bless you. I know how difficult it is because I have been there. Keep fighting for her as I did for my special Winston (a Yorkie), my soulmate in the animal kingdom. The most important thing is that love and contact for them. She knows you are doing all you can. Our fur children are special beings and she will let you know if she is not coping. Love and light to both of you xx

    January 16, 2018 at 11:25 pm Reply
  • Lorri Tinkey

    Hi Katherine, I was just wondering how Gracie is doing.

    January 19, 2018 at 10:27 pm Reply
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