Miguel'smom, I'm glad you got through that hour. Saying to oneself "I did it" is a great self cheerleading. I do that when I manage things that are hard.

BeyondtheRainbow, that is a bummer that medications can affect us metabolically. I hope your doctor can find a solution for fighting pre-diabetes without affecting your stability.

whatever2013, you have a kind friend helping you with your doggie. I confess I'm having a very difficult time knowing exactly what to write, but do feel you are clearly a most loving dog owner. That fact makes clear to me why your dog would not want to leave you. You know, I used to be a parrot owner. There were many times that I felt I wasn't taking care of my parrot as perfectly as I had wanted, but my parrot nevertheless would look at me like I was the center of his world. The truth is, we both clearly do give the most valuable care to our pets. That's love. Deep love. They are forgiving of the little things we fall short of doing. They are. I'm happy to read that you have your doggie back with you more fully again.