Goodbye Old Friend...

For those of you that have known me a long time, you know that our first son had 4 legs, weighed 96 pounds, and was extremely hairy! Yes, our first son was Chopper, our precious Rottweiler. Kelly actually got Chopper when he was a puppy and loves to tell stories of how he tore things up. That is hard to believe for those that knew him later because he was possibly the most well behaved dog I have ever known. I have been Chopper's "Mom" for over 8 years now...he was 13 years old this December which is just crazy in dog years...especially for a big dog. His health started declining over these past few years and recently got really bad. We took him to the vet on Tuesday and found out that cancer had spread all over his body and into his lymph nodes. You can figure out what happened next. It was probably the hardest thing that Kelly and I have ever had to do, but we had to put him to sleep. It has been a rough few days, but things are slowly getting better. I know that in time we will just laugh at funny stories about him instead of tearing up when thinking of him. I had to smile this morning when I was getting ready and found a "Chopper hair" on me. I'm sure that will happen for some time now. He truly was "Man's best friend" and the best dog anyone could ever ask for. My dear friend Kristy sent me a poem that I thought was beautiful. I know that many of you are dog lovers and would appreciate this.

To Those I Love and Those Who Love Me

"When I am gone, Release Me, Let me go-
I have so many things to see and do.
You musn't tie yourself to me with tears,
Be thankful for our beautiful years.

I gave to you my love, You can only guess
How much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now its time I traveled on alone.

So grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
Its only for a time that we must part,
So bless the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on.
So if you need me, Call, and I will come.
Though you can't see me or touch me, I'll be near,
And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear
All my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you come this way alone
I'll greet you with a smile and say:
"Welcome Home!"

We love and miss you Chops!