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Hi! We are the Plunks: Jennifer, Jeff, Matthew and Maddie! Welcome to our blog. I started this blog to chronicle our service dog adventure, but it has evolved into a place for me to jot down my thoughts... about autism, parenting, family, working, but mostly about celebrating life and the God who gifted us with it. Enjoy the ride!

Friday, January 30, 2009

Dante the Amazing Autism Assistance Dog... Day 2


We woke to 3 inches of snow covered with a layer of ice and
snow falling like crazy. Class went on, though, albeit with
a later start. Jeff's dad said there was a layer of ice on
the car a quarter of an inch thick... bless his heart, he
has had to go above and beyond the call of duty with all this
snow! My mom was supposed to be here with us, but she hurt
her back at work...as much as we miss her being here, I guess
things have a way of working out!


Dante slept through the night on Matthew's bed, and today he
has been noticeably more comfortable around both kids. He
notices and acknowledges Matthew more than Ajax ever did
unprompted. It's so exciting, and so encouraging.


Today in class we worked on basic obedience and distractions,
and then we practiced some tricks. The training experience
is so different and EVEN better the second time through.
Dante is so eager, and I'm enjoying it and soaking it all in
instead of being a nervous wreck. I'm also learning from my
experience with Ajax how to help them to bond. This is such
an amazing journey, and I feel like God has brought it full
circle.


When training was over, the kids and I went sledding!!
It was awesome! We are staying on the Athletes in Action
training and retreat campus (just minutes from 4 Paws), and
they have a GREAT hill. One of the families that live and
work on campus let us borrow some sleds, and we had a blast.
We are so thankful to have found these accommodations... a
newly remodeled suite of a dorm, and we have the floor to
ourselves, and it was only $240 for our entire stay! The
people here have been so nice and so helpful. My only
complaint has been not being able to get online with my
laptop, but they even tried their best with that! :)


After sledding and dinner, Matthew played ball with Dante...
that's one thing that will help their bond. He's the only
one who can play ball with him, because that will make him
"the most fun" in Dante's eyes. It was hilarious watching
him fly up and down the hall of the dorm. We had so much fun.


Well, it's time to turn in. Matthew and Dante are fast asleep,
and now Maddie is too. They tried to all sleep in one twin
bed but quickly decided three's a crowd.

Until tomorrow...