Ever Eleven

 Dear Cubby,

     Even after three years of cancer, you were doing so well I was sure you'd reach this, your twelfth birthday, but you didn't.  Nearly four weeks ago, very suddenly, you suffered a stroke.  We never saw it coming, had never even given it a thought.  And just that quickly, I knew our time together was almost over.  You seemed fairly comfortable and quiet until you tried to get up, realized your back end was paralyzed, and panicked.  You struggled so badly it exhausted you, and you were just despondent after that.  It was time to call in Angel Vets.  Dr. Corona came with his assistant and, with endless tenderness and compassion, they issued you a one-way ticket to Rainbow Bridge.  You were ready, but I sure wasn't.  I'm still crying even a month later.  You took a huge chunk out of my heart when you left.

     I do have to thank God for every single moment he allowed you to be in my life.  It was a wild ride and I'm left with great memories of our years together.  As a service dog, you were flawless, at least after you grew up and passed the rookie stage.  As a dear friend and companion, you were beyond flawless.  We had a bond stronger than super-glue.  And the work you did with Piper was priceless.  You were a wonderful teacher!

    Because time ceases to exist on the other side of eternity, I don't know if they have birthdays at Rainbow Bridge but, if they do, Happy Birthday, my precious friend.  Thank you for being such a beautiful part of my life.  Someday my heart will heal, and most of my tears will dry, but I'll always love you and miss you more than I can say, especially on days like today.  I love you, big dog!  Wait for me ... I'll see you in the Morning.

 <<<Lord God, thank You for bringing Cubby into my life and for letting me keep him as long as You did.  I really miss him but, because of Your written word, I know I'll see him again soon.  Please give him a special cookie for me and tell him I love him.  Thank You for the paw prints on what's left of my heart.  He was one truly special dog and I'll never forget him.  Amen.>>>

Photo Description:  Cubby resting at Rainbow Bridge under a tree of tennis balls.