A Personal Note this Week

Dear Lucy, I miss you more than I ever imagined I would when this day came.

Dear Lucy,

I miss you more than I ever imagined I would when this day came. It’s been weeks and the house is silent and the memories flood me every day of how much your big spirit in your little body filled our home and our hearts.

You taught me how to love unconditionally. Before you, I never had to care for another creature. But the second I saw you, I knew it was my purpose to care for, protect, and love you.

We had so many adventures during our decade together. Cross-country moves, buying homes, building a business, getting married—I grew up with you by my side. Because of you I was able to make some of the hardest but best choices in my life.

Because of you I saw all the places we lived. From Bankers Hill, Nashville, Coronado, and Sackets Harbor, on our walks we explored wherever we were in whatever season. I remember the back road from Green Hills to 12 South we would walk many days like it was yesterday. Our miles to the beach when we lived on the island, and—by far my favorite—exploring North Country when we landed in this remote and beautiful place in the middle of the pandemic. I could not have asked for a better and more brave walking companion—my little chihuahua always up for a walk even in negative degree winters.

Even with your absence you are teaching me. Saying goodbye to you reminded me that we should not waste a single day with those we love. It reminded me that life can change in an instant, and so we must embrace the joyful moments. I would give anything for another day with you, but the time we did have we did not waste.

I miss your little body, and your little face. I miss how you smell, and your barks demanding we feed you. I miss the sound of your paws on our floors; our walks in the snow, rain, or sunshine. I miss your “barking the live long day,” at a much bigger dog, or a squirrel, or the wind. I miss you running away from the chickens when they pecked you, your growls at Daisy and Tenney. I miss your snoring and how you felt sleeping next to me or in my arms. I miss you begging Andrew for food at dinner and your demands to go outside exactly at walking time. I miss you greeting me when I come home. I miss knowing I’ll see you right around the corner in our home—in one of your many spots. You were ever omnipresent—in the best possible way.

My life is so much fuller because of you. Right now, I have more sorrow than I could have imagined, but that is because you brought me so much joy. I thank God every day that he gave me you—you were my kindred spirit, my best friend and companion. I love you little one, more than I thought I was capable of, and I cannot wait to cross the rainbow bridge with you someday. You are so loved, and I will miss you everyday, thank you for loving me.

Rest in peace Little Boo.

My girl from December 30, 2014 until April 14, 2024

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So many memories, so many photos. Here are some favorites.