Lilypie - Personal pictureLilypie

Monday, June 11, 2007

Goodbye Riley

This weekend Mommy, Auntie Jenny and I went to Sparwood to visit Grandma and Grandpa and to say goodbye to Riley, the family dog. Riley was 13 years old and lived a long and happy life. I only had the pleasure of knowing him for the last 11 months but in that short time, I grew to love him very much.

Riley was only a tiny furball, the runt of the litter, when Mommy, Grandma and Auntie Jenny went and picked him out 13 years ago. Grandpa had no idea what they were up to. He was so small and cute. How could they resist! Grandpa came home that day to find a tiny ball curled up on the living room floor, his new pet. Grandpa loves dogs and has always had dogs, so he was happy that day.

In his younger years, Riley loved to play ball, go for walks and do tricks. But one of his favourite pastimes was fishing. He loved going to the river with Grandpa and was a great fishing buddy. He also loved to go for rides in the car or truck. As he got older, he didn't go on as many walks, so he would spend his time out in the front yard rolling in the grass and watching the vehicles go by. He lived for his treats and would often go up to the treat cupboard and bark. It was hard to say no to him. He would just look at you with those big brown eyes. He also loved to eat whatever anyone else was eating at the time. He especially loved buttered popcorn and cheese.

Riley went to doggie heaven today and now he is a fur angel watching over all of us. We love you Riley and will never ever forget you. You have made the last 13 years the happiest years of our lives.

A Dog's Prayer

When I am gone, release me, let me go-
I have so many things to see and do.
You must not tie yourself to me with tears,
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you have each shown.
But now it is time I traveled alone.
So grieve awhile for me if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust,
It is only for a while that we must part,
So bless the memories within your heart,
I will not be far away, for life goes on,
So if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can not see or touch me, I will be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you will hear
All my love around you soft and clear.
And then, when you must come this way alone,
I will greet you with a smile and "Welcome Home".


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