In Memory of Abbey

Abbey,
You came into my life when I most needed you, at a time when I was lost, uncertain, and needed someone to love, unconditionally. At a time when you needed a forever home, someone to love you unconditionally. When I first saw your photo on the GRA site, you immediately stole my heart - that goofy look that was with you until the end. You were the light of my life, my heart dog, my reason for being even on the darkest days. You taught me how to love again, to be soft and gentle and happy. If any dog and owner can be perfectly matched, I believed it happened to us. I will never forget you. The day you first learned how to master stairs. The day you figured out glass doors. The very first day you play bowed and truly opened up to me. Your first day at camp learning that you couldn't walk on water. The many play sessions in the park, running and wrestling with me, so happy and free. The way you would put out your paw in the middle of the night just to check I was still there, and get a hand in return. So many firsts we went through together and I will never forget you through it all. My big goofy goober boy, I love you so much. I couldn't let you continue in pain so chose to set you free, to run and chase the squirrels forever. The house is so empty, so quiet. So lonely. I don't know what it's like to have the couch or the bed to myself. I don't want it to myself. If I could wave a magic wand and have you back, whole and healthy, I would. I am so, so sorry. You were too young to leave this world. It hurts so bad to lose you, but I will never forget you. You touched so many peoples' hearts - everyone always commented on what an amazing, handsome and social boy you were. In my eyes, you are perfect. We needed each other more than either of us knew. More than I knew, that's for sure. Because now I am empty, lost, and heart-broken. But I am a better person to have had you in my life. The grief I feel now is a direct function of the love I feel for you.

Abbey, I love you, I miss you, I always will, and you will forever be in my heart.

Northern Abbey
25/08/2002 - 29/12/2008