From Snuggles to Mommy

The loss of our little manny-man has been a lot harder than anybody could have imagined. I believe these are the words he would say to his mommy and to us if he could...

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Dear Mommy,

I remember coming to your home as a baby bichon, coincidentally at a time when your home was new to you too. How funny that it seemed like we were both learning our new environments together! It was tough to be a puppy and be taken away from my first mommy at such a young age, but you cared so well for me and nursed me back to comfort and happiness. You loved me so much, didn't you? I could tell you did by the way you looked at me. You even looked different yourself whenever you were looking at me or talking to me. Your face always lit up, and your voice always lightened. You really thought I was special, didn't you? It was nice growing up in such an active house with so many people in and out all the time. It got confusing at times, but you were the one constant for me. Every single day, you were always there. I really was special, wasn't I?

I didn't like getting used to you going to work every day. Sometimes there would be pretty long days without you, but I always managed to catch up on some sleep and terrorize a few passing dogs just for fun while you were gone. I just couldn't wait for you to come home from work so we could just hang out for a little while. I just liked having you there, even if you were in a different room. It just made everything right to have you home. I'm sure one of the kids told you that every time you went away, I just didn't act right. Well, I have to admit. I was a little depressed. I knew it was my fault that you couldn't take me, since I didn't handle long car rides very well. But I always knew you'd come back. I never doubted that for a minute. And I suppose you deserved an occasional vacation!

Of course, one of the highlights of any day was licking your legs after you got out of the shower. I don't know why I never grew out of that habit. I certainly didn't need the water. I think I just knew that you liked it. I was never too thrilled with the baths, or even the visits to the vet, but on some level I kind of knew you were just taking the very best care of me. I didn't even mind when you practically cut my tongue off. It didn't really hurt. (After all, don't you remember Grandpa Spatafora?) It happens to the best of us. And thanks for indulging me on our walks. I know I wasn't the easiest dog when it came to the walking, especially toward the end. But often I just wanted to be outside with you, and walk the neighborhood with you. I was always so proud to be with you. And at the close of every day, I used to watch you closely for the signals that our day had come to an end, so that I could run upstairs and jump into bed with you. My favorite part of every day!

It went very quickly. I don't think any of us knew how fast it would go. But I just want you to know that I lived a very happy life. I doubt there are many other dogs who feel as contented and peaceful as I always did. And I know that you will miss me for a long time, and this will be hard. But every time you think of me, please don't be sad. I will be sending you memories of me forever. Whenever you think of me, it is probably because I am thinking of you too. I was brought into your life at a specific time and for a specific reason. I may not be right next to you right now, but I'm never really far away. As much as you think I gave to you, you can't imagine how much you gave to me.

What a family we have. I can't thank you enough for letting me be a part of it.

All my love,

Snuggy