Happy Girl

My dear, sweet Happy,

You followed closely behind me--limping--for a mile.  That was impressive.  But we had two cats, a dog, and a 6-month old.  We certainly didn't need another dog.  But that late summer day in 2002, you chose to follow me.  

Maybe you knew Mack needed a buddy.  Maybe you knew Jeremy had a bleeding heart for dogs in need.  Whatever it was, you chose a family that would nurse you back to health, provide you a lifetime friend in Mack and endless hours of playtime with kids, and a family that would return the love you gave them whole heartedly.

 You were mischievous.  He loved cornering the cats and finding things on the kitchen counter when we weren't looking (including chocolate, which never once made your tummy hurt-yes there were a couple occasions).  You loved to dig!  And you always had a little bit of dirt on your nose that gave you away in an instant.  I still laugh that the only way I could get you back home if you got out of the fence was to drive and open the sliding minivan door.  Even if that meant driving next door.  All the neighbors even knew the trick.  No one ever tried to chase you--they'd just say, "Katie!  Get the keys!  Happy's over here!"

 Happy, you chose a dog-loving family. You really hit the jackpot, especially when Anna was born.  Everyone loved you--you were happy, fun, and perpetually smiling, but Anna loved everything about you. She loved bathing you, feeding you, walking you, playing with you.  We had five kids, and I never--not one time--heard you growl or fuss at one of them.  You were patient and kind.

 You followed me home that day, but every day after that, Daddy was your person.  You followed him everywhere.  From room to room, up and down the stairs, around the yard.  And you always chose to sit on or near people's feet.  You didn't have much personal space.

 You got older and grayer.  But you didn't lose your spunk until the bitter end.  You still followed Daddy, and you still barked the minute you saw Rose in the morning because you knew she was on breakfast duty.  

Happy, I'm so glad you chose us that day twelve years ago.  You did your job.  You were a loyal, loving friend to this entire family.  I miss you already my sweet girl.

Goodbye.  Love, Mommy