Independence week in Idaho is proving to be the hottest Alpo and I have experienced since come back to the states almost four years ago.  Since the home we live in does not have central air, we are camping out in the room with the strongest air conditioner.  Alpo does not like the heat.  He goes outside, does his thing and immediately runs back inside.  I'm actually not all that better...  I can't believe it has already been four years since I sold my home and started preparing to return to the USA.  Wow,  time sure has flown by!  I've had a lot of great things happen and some negative.  In some areas, it has not been easy to return to the states after so long away.  I learned to count my blessings a long time ago and so here is a list of those blessings:

• My relationship with my twin has grown and we can proudly say we are friends now!
• I have enjoyed learning to really drive and have a car.  For the past twenty years, I have always used public transportation so commuting with a car will be new for me once I start my new job on Friday.
• My small business is starting to thrive and have a life of its own.
• I've gotten to know my adopted niece and nephews from the beginning.
• I've been able to get to know some of my biological nieces and nephews who were born while I was away.
• I've gotten to know my mom's husband and am really happy to see them happy!  My dad would be pleased!
• Alpo had a litter in 2010 and I've learned to know more about his breed and many of the wonderful people who are promoting the Hungarian Pumi here in the USA.
• I've been able to take some great road trips here in the USA and am planning to do more.

These are just some of the blessings I'm reflecting on during these hot dog days of summer!