American Boy

Jake was up at his usual time for breakfast. No wake-up calls needed when you travel with him. We headed over to Vail Village to watch their parade. Jake’s bump is pretty “meaty” right now so we’re changing his bandages daily. Today we decided to improvise a patriotic theme with red, white and blue stripes. Dan bought him a flag bandana last week so we added that to complete the look. Jake was definitely a hit. Lots of smiles from people. Kids running over to pet him. We were searching for a shady spot to watch the parade.

There was a sweet little restaurant, Marketplace on Meadow Drive, right on a busy corner. We stopped to buy a couple drinks on their patio and noticed one table was empty, but had a sign that said, “Reserved for Julie & Larry”. Not surprising considering the prime viewing location. However, the parade hadn’t started so we asked the hostess if we could sit there until they arrived. Normally I wouldn’t even try something like that but having Jake around always alters the process a bit, and now I’m finding it always improves the outcome. Like a lucky charm. Eventually the manager came over to us and told us he seated the group in another location and that we were welcome to have the table for the day. SCORE! We ended up with this incredible view of the passing parade as it rounded the corner right in front of us. We had a couple extra chairs and when we noticed a family standing nearby, we asked them to join us. A grandmother, her daughter and their brand new grandchild…”Nana”, Lisa and Cadence. Great parade. Perfect setting. New faces and conversation. Such a fun outing and so wonderful to share the unexpected good fortune with someone else, too.

Jake, Dan and I headed back to the Westin for an afternoon nap.

Turn on the Bright Lights

The town of Avon did their fireworks show tonight. The Westin is in such a perfect location to see them. We just walked out the front door and watched them from the lawn. Jake has never been afraid of loud noises like fireworks or thunder. I think he just loves to be in the middle of all the action.

History Repeating

This process has been about trying new things, mostly. But you know, some things in life are so good that maybe it’s OK to go back and try to recreate them. You might not duplicate the entire experience but it’s possible that you’ll get something just as good, but with a slightly different twist. Jake and I decided to head back to the mountains for the holiday weekend. Dan joined us this time at the Westin Riverfront.

Thank You For Being a Friend

Jake had an incredible birthday party! Susan gave Jake this dog biscuit from Three Dog Bakery! Thanks to everyone who stopped by: Susan, Matt, Paul, Jon, Barry, Sam, Mojo, Sophie, Jim, Tom, Scott, Dave, Jay, Jill, Dr. Laura, Beau, Chris, Michael B, Judy, Judy Ann, Peter, Gabe, Lisa and Monica.

Happy Birthday!

We made it! Jake is 8 years old today. So, what to give the dog that has everything? A few weeks back, I enrolled him in an amazing program at The Children’s Hospital called YAPS (Youth and Pet Survivors). They connect children and dogs that are both dealing with cancer and help them start a pen pal relationship. They share stories back and forth about their lives, families, interests and treatment. Jake got his first email this week from someone in the program. It was a cool e-birthday card, his first one of the week!

Come See About Me

Jake turns 8 on Thursday. His cancer was diagnosed on April 18th. I wasn’t sure that we’d make it this far. Party time and you're invited! No bone-shaped cake made of Alpo with a sparkler on top. We won’t sing "Happy Birthday” to a confused dog. Don’t bring gifts. He has enough toys. (If you must spend your hard-earned cash, just make a donation to CSU Animal Cancer Center where's he being treated.)


This is just an opportunity to get together with friends who have enjoyed Jake’s antics over the years. I’m not sending a formal invitation. No Evite. No mass emails. No RSVP’s necessary. Just swing by our house anytime from 7pm – 9pm on Thursday, July 2nd. The side gate will be open and we’ll have some cold beverages on the patio. If you don’t know the address, send an email to jakeygianni@gmail.com and we’ll give you directions.

If you can’t make it due to the holiday weekend, we understand. Just promise us you’ll do something with your own dog this weekend. Take them on a long walk someplace new. Or for a swim. Go find a shady patio for lunch or coffee. Give them a bath. Or if you’re really brave…think of some really ridiculous idea and do it. You’d be surprised how much fun it will be for both of you.