Goodbye to an Old Friend

I'll lend you for a little while
A very grand dog, He said,
For you to love while he's alive
And mourn for when he's dead.

It may be one or seven years,
Or only two or three,
But, will you, till I take him back
Take care of him for me?

He'll bring his charm to gladden you.
And should his stay be brief,
You'll have very special memories
As solace for your grief.

I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from Earth return.
But, there are lessons taught on Earth
I want this dog to learn.
I've looked the wide world over
In my search for teachers true,
And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes
I have selected you.

Now will you give him lots of love?
Nor think the labor vain
Nor hate Me when I come
To take him back again?

I know you'll give him tenderness
And love him while you may.
And for the happiness you've known
Froever grateful stay.

But should I come and call for him
Much sooner than you planned,
You'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And try to understand.

Author Unknown

Many of you may have heard, some may have not, But, our old friend Boolie has passed. Our Brave little fighter couldn't fight any more. The cancer that had taken his leg years ago came back. Just like the tough little man he was, he tried. But it was just too agressive. In the end we chose to 'pay forward' all the unconditional love he had given us over the years. He is at rest now, with no pain. Tuesday, as the rains fell and the skies were cloudy, Boolie went on to find Noah, Casey, Brandy and other friends that have gone before us. Later that day, he sent us some of the sunshine he always loved to 'warm his old bones.'
Thank you Boolie for all your licks and love. You were the best friend and companion. You will always be missed. But, always be in our hearts! We love you!