The Vet

Much of weekend spent with Jenny at the vet. Discover in extremely unpleasant way (involving bed and chewed off bandages) that injured foot has become infected. Wound very, very grisly. Looks like swollen, pus-oozing piece of meat,(which technically, suppose it is, except, of course, meat is dead--pork not the same thing as pig--continue this train of thought for quite some time, probably to distract from vile looking--and smelling--problem at hand). First vet refers us to second Vet who advises a round of antibiotics and emergency Surgery. Surgery takes place on sunday and goes off without a hitch. Jenny stoic throughout. Receive very nasty shock in form of of bill, which would seem to indicate that she got one new kidney, at least. Dave and I agree to split the bill. Privately, worry about where the money will come from. Recall saying about not being able to get Blood from a Turnip. Dave doesn't seem concerned at all. Move travelling household to Brooklyn to take advantage of elevator in my apartment building. When move is complete, very tired and Dave grumpy but offers to cook. Immediately finds kitchen inadequate. Gripes, it would be easier if we weren't moving between two houses all the time. Say briskly, well you can stay in your apartment and I can stay in mine. This leads to long and involved discussion at end of which Dave insists that I move to his apartment because it is more convenient and in the City, and I counter that my apartment is larger and has an elevator so Jenny doesn't have to climb the stairs. (Or have to be carried up the stairs, but don't mention this as afraid it will sound self-interested. It is.) Use of Jenny in argument extremely effective. Ends discussion altogether. (Note: in arguments, use Jenny sparingly so as not to Wear Out). Dave concedes and we agree that he will move in with me. Only at this point do we see that this is a happy occasion. Very nice evening spent at our new home (my old home) eating baked chicken, vegetables, and drinking virtuously moderate amounts of cotes du rhone. Jenny, who has been given a sedative for dinner, snores.