1.08.2011

January 8, 2011

White Dog, Quinn, and Nuka got into Pumpkin along with Michael for our usual Saturday morning trip to take Michael to Watermelon Ranch Animal Sanctuary where he volunteers. But wait! Another passenger is coming out to join us!

Puff, looking very unsure and moving only by sheer bravery, hopped into the van and nervously pressed against TOWD as she looked at White Dog (sitting on her console throne) for reassurance. SAWD took a deep breath and relied upon my hand reaching back to stroke her for comfort. She did not panic or whimper or struggle. Our brave, stoic girl even trusted enough to sit next to Quinn part of the time...and his smile set everyone at ease.

After dropping Michael off, we took The White Dog Army for a hike. Not wanting to overtax Puff, Steve took WD, Quinn and Nuka. SAWD stayed with me but soon indicated that she wanted to explore, too. Steve took her on a short solo adventure. She is still learning to walk on a leash but did wonderfully at Steve's side, sniffing and wagging her tail at the experience.

When Puff rejoined us, she was greeted with nuzzles and congratulations...and of course, all had treats. It was a happy ride home.

Back home and reconnected to our blog friends our gladness was washed away in a flood of tears. The Luke, our inspiration and hero, had reached the end of this life's journey. We were comforted to know he left surrounded by love and full of dignity.

We are relieved that he no longer suffers. Our hearts break for the wrenching ache that must rip holes in The Mom and Bleu. To them we have no balm but offer our love and understanding.

The Luke will never be forgotten and his legacy is, in our Army, a ceaseless commitment to slay the beast which stole our friend too soon. Tonight we light a candle and look for a bright new star. Peace, dear Luke.

13 comments:

Tweedles -- that's me said...

Such beautiful words for our friend Luke.
Our hearts are sad, and many tears fall also,
love
tweedles

Teddy Bear said...

We didn't know Luke but are saddened by his crossing to the Rainbow Bridge.:(

Love,
Teddy Bear

Sagira said...

Very sorry to hear about your friend. :(

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

What a bittersweet day -

Just like the emotions we are feeling - we are sad The Luke has khrossed but we are happy to know he's no longer sufferiing -

Mom expekhts to have a furry special presence riding shotgun -

I'm just sayin'

Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra

How Sam Sees It said...

We are glad the white dogs had a wonderful morning. Like you, we are saddened to hear of the passing of a wonderful friend. He was much missed, and will be for some time.

Sam

Brian's Home Blog said...

Y'all did have a good day. I read about sweet Luke just a bit ago, he will be remembered forever.

Casper and pals said...

We are sorry to hear about Luke crossing the Rainbow Bridge. Run Free Luke

We also want to say

Yay Puff- You Go Girl!

Woofs from Casper, Buddy, Nikki and Cotton

Remington said...

Sad news about Luke....

♥♥ The OP Pack ♥♥ said...

You said it all so well for Luke, we too are all very sad at his passing. We have his Mom and the Bleu in our thoughts and prayers.

Such exciting news about Puff - this is huge - hugs to that special little girl.

Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, and Ciara

KB said...

Thank you for expressing so very well exactly how so many of us feel about Luke and our worries about his family.

I love how you take such happiness in each small step made by your dogs. They are all heroes!

Pepsi Bum said...

You've said everything that I wanted to say about the Dearest Luke. Lovely tribute.

Woofs,
Pepsi

Maureen said...

I'm so glad to hear that Puff was able to join the adventure of a White Dog Army outing.

Go Puff Go!

Thank you for sharing your words on The Luke. He touched so many hearts.

Your friend, HoneyBuzz

Kari in Alaska said...

HOORAY PUFF!!!!

Kari
http://dogisgodinreverse.com/