I cant even begin to remember a time in my life when I didnt either have a dog in the family or was trying to get one as a pet. In my Moms photo scrapbook of my brother and me as little kids, one of her favorites is of a two-year old mini-me-- hugging Molly the Collie--my grandparents dog. I can still feel transported to a much earlier time when I gaze at that picture. I remember the feel of her thick, soft fur and that sweet smile. She panted and drooled all over me, and I loved it! Another family photo includes a fifth-grade version of me in a checked blouse and skirt, my favorite outfit. Of course, I was hugging Brownie, a beagle that we had inherited when my Papa passed away. Brownie watched after school TV with me on the couch, and I can still recall his special dog smell and mischievous sparkle. He was a constant in my early growing up years, and Ill always keep a special place in my heart for him. After Brownie passed away, there was a lapse with no dogs, just cats. But, I wanted a dog so bad I could taste it. A collie mix showed up at our farm in the springtime. I didnt know who he belonged to but I was already falling in love. My Mom said NO. Everyone said NO. A few days later, we discovered that the little guy was a neighboring farm dogs baby--a runt of the litter--this pup had wandered away. I started in again. I begged. I pleaded. The neighbors sent their oldest son over. You can keep him if you want. We have more dogs than we need. Know youd be good to him. My mother couldnt resist Danny, our handsome neighbor boy and his lively charm. She nodded. He was mine! I picked up that little soft fur ball and held him tight. No one would ever keep us apart. I promised to feed him and take very good care of him. And, I kept my promise. I also decided to name him Rusty because of his orange-ish-brown coat. We were inseparable. He was the first thing I spotted when I departed the school bus. He was waiting at the end of the driveway for me. We had lots of country hikes together. I would spend long summer days with him --wed sit close by together in the tall grass and look up at the clouds. He was a wonderful friend and companion. In fact, I named my present little canine shadow after him. It was meant as a high honor. Sometimes, when I think of the years that have come and gone, I can put them on a timeline by which dog or dogs were in my life. The memories of these wonderful pets are strong and powerful. Im starting another year soon. This new year will be marked with my trusted dog-friends--Phineas and Rusty. Ill ring in another year with them by handing out fresh dog biscuits and a new dog bed for Phin. Rusty sleeps with Paul and me. It will be another year of companionship. One thats pretty near perfect. Loyalty. Playfulness. And, hearts that are as big as a full summer moon.
Posted on: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 18:57:59 +0000
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