"What about my boys?" Aly asked when her dozen or so females rejected us.  After the curious perfunctory greetings, the boys went their way, too.  Disappointed, I sat down on the steps.  I did not notice Sam until he hopped up behind me on the steps.  He was shaking I mistakenly assumed from the cold.  After a few minutes, he stepped down beside me and licked my cheek.

 

That was the start of six-and-a-half years of a perfect companionship.  Never straying, never barking, always the perfect gentleman.  Always by our sides in the yard, fields, woods, mountains, and at bedtime.  Always anxious and ready, even after being cruelly stricken with nasal cancer.

 

Our Best Friend is gone now, save our memories, a few photographs, and these words.  The void is immeasurable.  Godspeed little buddy . . .

 

Jim and Dee

September, 2010