Five Stick Friday

This was the week. One year ago. I had to carry Copper up the back deck stairs. His hind legs had just given out. That night he barely ate.

And I knew. They always say dogs you’ve loved would “tell you” when it was time. And my Prince Copper told me a year ago today that it was time.

Those last remaining days as I made arrangements for in-home vet services, contacting my kids to get them home, and emotionally preparing myself were honestly 6 of the worst days of my life… but I fought really hard to make them 6 of his most comfortable.

Erin, Davis, and Jack made their way home… along with Dante and Nora, and the vet allowed us all the time we wanted with Copper before he had to do what he came for.

I’ll never forget as Copper was easing away that Erin’s boyfriend Jack noticed a single red Cardinal right outside the door on our deck feeder. I’m convinced the spirit of Hilo came back to guide Copper home.

One year. One of the toughest personal years I’ve had with respect to losing both pets and people close to me.

And yet, I still get to see the bird I named Hilo every day as a reminder there is hope in this world.

I miss our Prince Copper… 🐕❤️

Perhaps someday it won’t sting this badly…

But one year later, that day is not today.

Love’em while you got ‘em.