I rarely write of personal matters in this column because this space is reserved for my four-legged kids and that is how it should be.

On Saturday, I was hours away from hopping in my car and making a 12 hour trip up to New York.&bsp; My older brother, Gary, is very ill and his vitals are shutting down.&bsp; Id already rearranged my schedule at F.H.S. and other obligations when my sister-in-law, Isabel, called and asked me not to come.&bsp; He may be hours, days, or weeks away, she said, and well need you here when its over.&bsp; Ill need at least two days to put things in order and get up there, dear, I replied.&bsp; Well wait, Lennie, the whole family is expecting to see you.&bsp; Till then I guess Ill have to leave it to what I pray each day, Thy will be done.

Now I wish to appeal to all my Boxer lovers and talk once again about sweet, sweet Bowser.&bsp; If you recall, he is the 4-year-old brindle Boxer from Good things happen when people care, who was living in a 10×10 outside pen for three years. He is currently at Landrum vet under my care and he has come through all his worming procedures and a difficult neutering with flying colors.

Before I go on, I have a word for all the vets I deal with.&bsp; God bless you all for the special caring you give to my kids.&bsp; You seem to ride with my every emotion and I could never achieve all that I do without your help and guidance.

Bowser is a true Boxer who twists himself into the dance of joy when I or anyone gives him attention.&bsp; All who meet him marvel at his beauty and demeanor.&bsp; I want good homes for all my kids, but this boy has certainly paid his dues and has earned the privilege. I have many feelers out on his behalf and each time I visit him at the vet, I introduce him to new people with his story.&bsp; Ive taken him to Harmon Field twice for some personal R&R with stops along the way to introduce him around. He rides beautifully in the car.&bsp; He sits in the passenger seat next to me with a constant smile of joy and excitement on his face. &bsp;

As I stated earlier, he is loved by all who meet him, but the answer is nearly always the same, I would if I could.&bsp; I truly understand, I guess I too would if I could.

Please make your way down to Landrum vet and ask to visit with Bowser.&bsp; Dr.s Raines and Maiola, plus the staff will probably speak of him with even more accolades than I, he is truly loved. And when you come (please God, for his sake), hopefully you would and you could.

Thanks for listening.