I'm not waving, but blogging!

Yikes, this is a bit scary. For years I've been trying to get stuff published and now I have the world at my mercy, but what the hell do I say? Is this how it is for all blog virgins?

First, let me fill you in on the guide dog situation.

There, that was easy. I don't have one. Nor do I know when I will be getting one. I am, however, a high priority case, having recently lost my last dog to cancer back in October when he was just three years old.

Being without a guide dog is both a traumatic and liberating experience.

3 things I miss about having a guide dog

• They are so much more sociable than white sticks - they attract people rather than making their ankles bleed (generally speaking).
• They are fantastically good at what they are trained to do. My last dog, Ellis, once saved me from walking straight in front of a bus - honest - I still have the stains to prove it.
• They are great family pets.

3 things I don't miss about having a guide dog

• Picking up doggy doo-doos.
• I have the use of my left arm back. Although, admittedly, my right arm is now generally taken up with holding a white stick.
• I do feel a little more independent. This is a bit weird, because a guide dog is supposed to increase your independence...which it does, but you are still dependent on a dog.

Anyway, the advantages definitely outweigh the drawbacks, so each time the phone rings I'm eagerly hoping that it is news of my new dog. Keep your fingers crossed for me.