Dear Miss Belle,
It's hard for me to imagine now, watching you run down the road in front of me in that funny way you have, where your rear-end flies up higher than your head, that I ever debated the puppy question at all.
When I see Max's face light up at the sight of you, his beloved puppy ... when I see him ignore his pain to play with you, I feel ashamed and selfish that I had doubts about bringing you to our home.
I forgive you the blankets you've shred to pieces ... the old shoes, towels, gloves, everything you've scavenged from the neighborhood and left on our front porch ... even the deer leg and dead field mouse ... because of the joy I see in Max, and the love you give to me.
I won't mention Frankie - I'm not sure what happened there, so it's better to just let the past go. I'm certain of one thing... if you had anything to do with Frankie's demise, it was purely innocent. I know this because I see nothing but innocence in your face ... innocence, love and joy.
You are a lover, living to love, to give, to experience life. Your exuberance is contagious.
You make me laugh.
What better feeling is there than being greeted by a dog who wiggles from head to toe like a Slinky toy, nose wrinkling in a grin, unable to contain the joy she feels at the sight of you?
How can I scold you when you jump up to lavish my ear in wet affection, or accidentally pinch my arm with your teeth when you give me your tiny 'sweet kisses'?
You've added sparkle and energy to our lives. And joy. Lots of joy.
We should have named you Joy.
Happy first birthday, Miss Belly Wiggles Joy Shallue, and thank you.
Love,
mom
We finally meet you!
You meet Max...
Ear kisses for Daniel...
Off on the first walk...
Just remembering...
Months later, you're right at home and we're wondering what we did without you!
Dogs are miracles with paws.
~Attributed to Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy
This is my contribution to the Focus 52 creativity project found HERE.
