One Year

One year ago today, I said goodbye one final time to my beloved boy, Ollie.

Despite severe epilepsy, a bad and rare reaction to prednisone, and two ACL replacements, he lived almost 13 years. Unfortunately, the epilepsy slowly took his mind and personality and caused real suffering at the very end. I regret he suffered that last night; as fellow dog mommies and daddies out there, I know you understand needing to be absolutely sure it’s time before you make the ultimate decision.

That being said, I want to spend time remembering all the love and joy he brought to my life. He was such a good good boy. Obedient, smart, silly, loving, and cute. From the way he pranced instead of walked, managed to sneeze in your face and step on your feet, was incapable of being anything but in the way, and how he’d approach you all happy and seeking attention but as soon as you’d try to touch his face he’d turn away, to being the world’s best snuggler, butterfly chaser, and strangest wrestler (putting his butt up in the air as he wrestled with a toy), and so so much more. He was simply, frustratingly, and endearingly the best.

I could post probably millions of pictures of Ollie from his almost 13 years. He dominated my camera roll. The featured pic for this post is one of my all-time favorite pics of him. Here is a collage I put together shortly after he passed away of pictures of him and me together. The single pic of him and me I found later on an old phone. It’s one of my favs too.

Ollie’s passing was the first big step toward me moving to Florida, although I didn’t realize it at the time. The loneliness I felt after he passed was overwhelming. It spurred me to awaken to how much I was putting on hold to prioritize work.

Some final notes, if you are nearing the end with a beloved pet, consider Lap of Love. They come to your home and are consummate caring professionals. Thank you to everyone who sent me cards, gifts, prayers, and love after Ollie passed. It meant more than I can say. Thank you to Trinda, who helped care for my boy in his final months. If you’re looking for some drop in pet care, she’s your lady (message me and I can give you her contact info). And finally, thank you Monica, for being Ollie’s mom away from home and for being there for both of us, always.

I love you Ollie and I miss you. Be a good boy until I see you again. 💙