Moxie’s Got a Big Heart

I am sure everyone has seen a little bit on Moxie before – our “Sweet Pea” Doberman Pinscher. She has made appearances here on the site, on Facebook, Twitter, at parties and drooling out my car window. I have been photographing her a lot lately. Actually, a crazy amount. I could say it’s because I am practicing with film, testing lighting or playing with a new camera. Truth be told, the reason I am taking so many photos is entirely different.

Stop reading right here if you are quick to tears. Just pass over this text and skip to the pretty photos below. OK, you’ve been warned. If you are still reading, there is something to understand. Brooke and I love Moxie like none other. Moxie is our child in substitute of the real thing. About a year ago, Moxie had a heart attack. Seriously, dogs can have heart attacks too. I was home one day (thankfully) preparing for our big summer BBQ bash. Moxie and I were in the back yard when she went to stand up. She collapsed immediately. Just a moment later, she did it again. Being the son of a vet, I quickly realized what was happening.

RUSH! RUSH! RUSH! Off to the hospital we went. Hours and one painful bill later, Moxie was resting at home. Since then, some very expensive drugs and frequent cardiologist visits have kept her congestive heart failure at bay. Initially, we didn’t know if we would have her for a day or a couple months. Being familiar with congestive heart failure, I tried to convince Brooke that Moxie would not last long. I needed to prepare Brooke for the heart break I knew was coming. I was wrong, very wrong.

Nearly a year later and Moxie is resting next to me as I type. She is still happy and sweet as always. It has not been all roses, but we’re all blessed. So, why so many photographs lately? Its not to test film or a camera. It is not to keep my eye sharp. The reason is that we love Moxie. Need there be another reason? My recommendation – do the same for your family. Whether for your children, a parent or a pet. Put down the cell phone camera and take some real photographs. You’ll be thankful later.

[Update 11/8/2011 – Moxie stayed with us 17 months past her initial heart attack. Unfortunately, she passed on last Friday while resting comfortably at home and by my side. She will be missed, and always loved.]

So, here are some pretty pictures of us hanging out with our Sweet Pea –

For those that are curious, these were captured in Fuji Pro 400h film using my Hasselblad 500C/M.

Aren’t they pretty! Brooke, of course, is radiant as ever.