Blaze
February 6, 1990 - November 7, 2002

A tribute to Blaze. Where do I begin? Would it be with your beautiful brown eyes, your silky soft shepherd ears, your extra long tongue you loved to kiss everyone with, your thick dense fur, big huge feet you always seemed to trip over or your intense look ever so watchful over me? Your sweet face brought us more attention than we ever needed but you accepted that gracefully. Your dedication, patience, strength and loyalty to me was endless a gift I will always treasure. Your temperament was gentle, kind, all knowing that those who were afraid needn't be and you taught them not to be. You won the hearts of many with your gentle demeanor. 

There are not enough words to describe my love for you. I know you lived for me and I lived for you we had that understanding communicated through the very special bond we shared that did not require words. A look, a touch what was it we had together?  Something I will never be able to explain to those who did not know you but an allegiance so strong that my breathing, movement, voice or gesture brought your attention to me. You never stopped watching over me nor I you as I listened always for your well being. You were my once in a lifetime dog, my precious baby girl. I admired your courage. Every battle with disease or illness you fought to win. Your endurance gave me strength. You taught me how to walk in this life with grace and dignity. With you walking beside me I overcame many fears, your example showing me the way. Although I did not have you nearly as long as I would have wanted, your presence in my life was a gift and I will always be grateful for having had you here.

I miss you talking to me, always keeping me on top of things that sweet way you had of letting me know you had company while I was out or you didn't like being home alone that day or that it was dinner time or snack time. I miss you interrupting my phone calls mumbling and grumbling at me for being on too long when you wanted something. You were so funny about that. I miss reaching down to you at night or waking up in the morning to your kisses you were always there within my reach. You were my eyes, my window to the world my partner, my guide for many years and when I retired you it broke my heart but I could have never been prepared for the profound sadness I feel at losing you. I lost my best friend the day I lost you and I will forever miss you.
I love you Blaze
Love Mom