"Mostly, he taught me about friendship and selflessness and, above all else, unwavering loyalty....Give him your heart and he will give you his'" Josh Grogan
To the truest form of unconditional love I will ever know. The best companion I could ask for. You were part of each moment in our lives. You helped cook Thanksgiving dinner by laying next to the oven to let us know when the Turkey was ready. You helped decorate the Christmas tree by laying on the lights. Never one to miss a party, you were always found right in the middle of it all.
I'll remember how you would bark at me if I didn't throw your stick back in the ocean right away, but then cry while swimming because you thought I was leaving. Such a puppy you were. I'll remember how you used to lay on your back right where the AC was, but then follow the sun where it hit the floor in the kitchen so you could feel its warmth. I loved how you have had the same spot on the lawn all these years. The spot where you could see both the road and the front of the house, but also see the back of the house where we would be out on the deck reading. You covered all your bases, oh wise one. Protecting us at every moment. You would bark and growl when someone came to the door, my little watch dog, but then wag your tail and welcome them in in the same breath. Do you remember that walk we took in one of the many blizzards you saw? The one where you were so cold you walked pressed against me at every step. Maybe you were just trying to keep me warm too.
I'll think of moments like those, and carry a full heart when on your favorite walking trails, or while I'm at the beach (your most favorite word and place in the world) or any of your old stomping grounds. Thank you for your wagging tail to welcome me home, your head in my lap to say hello just when I needed you, and your unconditional love. For without it I would not be the same.
In memory of my first dog. Bunky Brendan Burlew 1998-2011.
