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If My Bark Meant Something...

Solan's last entry

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing Solan's last entry. He was a wonderful, loving, bright, beautiful, good-natured companion for the last nine years. I could not have asked for a better dog than Solan. He never ceased to give unconditional love to me as well as everyone he came across.

His passing last night came as a shock. Solan slowed down this year and he didn't have the usual bounce in his step but he still enjoyed his daily walks. He suffered from chronic ear infections for the past several years. Visits to the vet to have his ears flushed were always trying but Solan took it all in stride, never once complaining. He was so easy going and accepting, it hurt me to see him uncomfortable and sad. Yet he never outwardly showed it. His facial expression always seemed so composed. Solan would whimper and whine for a bit then he would stop and lie down on his bed, his chin resting on his left paw while he tucked his front one under his chest. At times he would give a sigh which seemed to express resignation rather than contentment.

I regret not spending more time with him, not taking him to Funston as often as I should have, not giving him enough treats, and not giving him more hugs and kisses he deserved.

Solan was my sun and moon. His life was too short. I know I'll be told that he's no longer suffering and in dog heaven but I'd rather have him here with me so I can hold him a little longer.

Rest in Peace, Sol y Luna
Well-loved Companion
March 9, 2002 - December 11, 2011

my return to civilization

I've been ill with one intestinal worm or another the last couple of months. The bouts of depression, vomiting, and diarrhea knocked me out of commission but I have fully recovered and in excellent health per my vet. And at 6 yrs old, I feel better than ever! Thank you to all my well wishers and thoughtful comments during my long absence.

back to the suburbs

Yesterday, dad came by to visit us and we all took a walk around the neighborhood. When we arrived home, mom filled my food dish, dad filled my water bucket and then they both left me. Something was definitely going on. Usually, mom and dad discuss things in front of me but this time around, they left for dinner together.

When they returned, mom started bagging up my things and handing them off to dad who placed them in his car. I noticed earlier that mom packed up most of her things also and dumped it in her car trunk. Where was she going? Where was I going?

Dad loaded me up in his car and I was so excited I was going for a car ride, I refused to move from my back seat to give my mom a hug. She waved goodbye and blew me kisses. Then dad and I left the city.

We drove over the bridge, past the hills and through the tunnel. Dad's place is so much quieter than mom's. Less to see and do and freakishly hot. Suburban life. I got a second walk that night and during the walk, I overheard dad tell mom on his cell that I was fine and for her to have a good trip (where is she going?) and we'll see her sometime next month.

Next month? I'm stuck in the 'burbs for a month! I can't believe she's leaving for that long. No wonder she cleared out everything in the house, including me.