The Dogiversary That Never Was

Today (Monday) would have been mine and The Tide's 11th Dogiversary. It's written on all my calendars for 2013 and it's bittersweet when I see it in big bold print with an exclamation mark. It's an anniversary that was anticipated but not celebrated.  

Like this year, October 28, 2002 was on a Monday and like this year, it was a dreary day when I picked The Tide up from the Pitt County Animal Shelter in Greenville, North Carolina. Just like 2002, it was also a Monday after Alabama had put a whoopin' on Tennessee. 

I often tell people that The Tide forced me to grow up. She made me responsible for something other than myself. She came to me at a time when I was living away from my family and often feeling sad and lonely and she filled my heart with much needed love, happiness, and companionship. 

In the months since her passing, she has been greatly missed. I still feel like there is a gaping whole in my heart from her ever present absence; some days are worse than others. I'm certain I will always miss her. She was, after all, an integral part of my life for 10 and a half years. 

So, here's to the dogiversary that should have been but apparently wasn't meant to be and to my best friend and beloved companion, The Tide. I hope dog heaven has awarded her the fastest legs and hips around.