Twelve years is a long time. Many things can happen; three moves,a divorce,a re-marriage, two bonus girls, and a grandchild. So much life in those 12 years. So much joy, pain, and celebrations.

Every year, I think, this could be it.

Her last one.

The one in which I say good-bye to my old friend. The one in which I am ready. Am I ready? I think so. I don’t want to see her hurt and in pain. Each year her hips get a little more stiff. Her breathing a little more labored. And her naps a little more deep and long.

I tell myself when she is not interested in eating anymore, then I will know it is time.

But that hasn’t happened.

I am not sure it will happen. This girl lives by her stomach.

And so we celebrate #12! We give her pats and frosted dog cookies. We sing happy birthday.

We celebrate our most faithful companion.

And watch for signs…that those old bones won’t go another day.

Of course, your friends are here. To keep your spirits high.

And your newest friend, in which, there are many mixed feelings about.

Probably because, she steals the show. And she is quite a pest (Mya the Terrible).

At least it is not your tail she declared World War III on (yet).

Old Dog

Why do you stay so near?
Go lie in the sun and drowse.
You needn’t follow my every step,
And jump up when I appear.
Your joints are stiff;
You’ve earned a rest;
Lived your life well;
Passed every test.
And now you’re very dear.

Old dog.
Why do you stay so near?
You lie close to my side
Each time I pause,
Head in my lap, alert to hear
Every nuance of my voice. You long ago made your choice
And never once looked to the rear.

Old dog.
Why do you stay so near?
What is it that you hear?
A far-off call, coming closer,
That I, too, know is there?
With each day our time together
Draws nearer to its end.
Please stay a while, old friend

by David the Dogman

Happy Birthday, Salem Dixie! Twelve years is a lot of duty, a lot of love, and a lot of heart.

Cheers to my best in show, my sweet companion, and my first doggy love.