08/29/2026
I would love to say that vacation is going well; however, the higher powers that be had a very different plan for us.
Wednesday night, at just 39 years old, my fiancé suffered a major heart attack. It was one of the most terrifying and scary moments of my life- a very real come and go moment where, for a while, we truly didn’t know what the outcome was going to be. It puts a lot into perspective very quickly when you’re faced with the possibility of losing someone you love.
Thankfully, he is still here, he is recovering, and for that I am beyond grateful. We still have a road ahead of us, with future procedures and surgeries to come, but right now I’m just thankful that we get to travel that road together.
With all of that being said, when I return to work, my schedule will probably look a little different. Exactly what that looks like, I honestly don’t know yet. I may decide to work only four days a week going forward.
Owning a small business is something I am incredibly proud of, but there are times when it isn’t easy. When you own a business, it can feel like there is always someone who needs you, somewhere you need to be, or something that needs to get done. And sometimes, without even realizing it, that means there isn’t enough of you left for the people you love the most.
This week has reminded me in the hardest way that life can change in a matter of seconds. Work will always be there. Appointments can be rescheduled. Plans can change. But time with the people we love is something we can never get back.
For my own mental health, my sanity, and my family, I think it’s time for me to find a little more balance. I want to be able to spend more time at home with my fiancé as he recovers and faces what’s ahead, and more time with my mom. I want to be present for the people I love and not always feel like I’m being pulled in a million different directions.
I don’t know exactly what our new normal will look like yet, and I’m going to take things one day at a time. I just ask for a little patience and understanding as I figure it all out.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me and my business and who continues to understand that behind The Grateful Dog is a real person with a family and a life outside of those doors.
Life is short. Hug your people a little tighter, tell them you love them, and make the time. ❤️
