Reflection

Its been 8 months since we had to say goodbye to our beloved Buddy.

 He brought all of us so much joy...including Bruno, our crazy Chihuahua.  

The two of them liked to play tag.

 *roar!*  (more like: *yawn!*)

 Callie and Buddy in younger years.

 Buddy guarding the porch from...nothing.  It was his style, man!

 Buddy not missing his chance to be included in a TV interview.  

 "Did I hear a squirrel?"

 Belly up! (His favorite pose.)

 Sidney finally giving him what he wants!

 Ted and Buddy playing in more youthful days.

 Sid and Buddy exploring a creek. 

Callie saying goodbye in Buddy's final days.

I still can't get over how some days I think of Buddy and I'm moved to tears.  The loss of a pet is never easy, but Buddy was something special.  I really doubt that there was a person who met him that didn't instantly love him.  (I used to catch the meter reader giving Buddy treats.  Granted, she probably gave lots of treats to dogs on her route...but I bet they didn't all get belly rubs like Buddy did.)  We didn't know it at the time, but "Buddy" was the perfect name.  He was a true friend.

I chose to post a reflection on Buddy today because tomorrow we begin a new phase in our lives.  Tomorrow we bring home Gracie.  If we love her half as much as we loved Buddy, she will be well loved, indeed.