Dear Tasha,
On March 29, 1999, something incredibly special happened to me. You came into my life. Let me tell you a bit about what prompted me to go to the shelter that day, and "just look around." I had just lost my beloved boy, Cody, my first dog. Willie was 10 years old. The day I lost Cody, not only was I in shock from his loss and absence, but the realization hit me like a ton of bricks, that I would be going through it again with my dear Willie. In my mind, my thoughts were never replacing Cody, or finding someone to replace Willie. I thought that day to myself, "I must at least start looking, and thinking about a new pup to begin a new bond with. What more could help ease the inevitable pains of life, and loss thereof?"
And so, Tasha, I stopped rather impulsively just to look that day, and I did so. I looked at them all, and of course, I wished I could take them all. But I knew that none really connected with me. I figured, it was too soon after Cody's passing, and it would take time before I could connect with one again. As I was heading out of the kennel to go back home, I noticed a door with a sign "play area" on it. I peeked out the window... and I saw two of the cutest pups imaginable with a shelter volunteer outside. Unable to resist, I went out to meet you and your sister. At first, I was drawn to your sister. She was a bit more bouncy and playful, grabbing my attention first. But then, after she got distracted by some toys, I noticed one pup stayed at my side, raining kisses on me, and I really looked into your eyes then. This is what I saw:
Could I hear the click? No, but I certainly felt it. I knew I could not leave you there then. I knew, just knew, you would be coming home with me, and that I would never, ever let you go. I picked you up, and held you. I took note of the number on your collar, to tell them I was taking you home. It was like a dream, all of it. You laid so still and trusting in my arms, just looking at me, and giving me those puppy kisses when I looked down at you. You never struggled for me to let you down, you were totally content in my arms. I filled out the papers, and then you came home with me, laying in my lap all the way home, as I watched you wonderingly at every stoplight.
As I pulled into the driveway, you suddenly lost your dinner all over me. I didn't care. I cooed and praised you. I know the car ride was traumatic for you, but once home, oh how happy you were. Can anyone doubt it?
Poor old Willie, was not sure what to make of you. He was such a gentle soul, I had to step in when you began gnawing and tugging on his tail, he wasn't sure what to do. But being the sweet and gentle-hearted boy he was, he accepted you.
You were a happy, playful, and funny girl. Bringing so many laughs and smiles.
And you took on every challenge with gusto and confidence.
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Continued in next post..
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I know that your mom is so happy to have you in her life. All your pics are so special and you sure were cute when you were a puppy. You have grown into quite a beautiful dog. You have become a special dog here, too. If you were closer to me, I'd let Duke have a girlfriend because you would surely come up missing at your house. I hope you get even more loving than you usually do today on your very special gotcha day. Love Val and Duke
I miss you
I'm so happy you came into her life!
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