Friday, May 7, 2010

ODE TO BOWSER and DUKE



About 10 years ago our own Christian was in a really bad place. He had seemingly lost his way and was genuinely in a funk. One day he found a puppy in a box outside the grocery store. It was a bit scared, just like Chris, and the two of them bonded in ways that were magic. We had another dog already, Duke, who was the crazy, hyper fetching maniac, and now Bowser.

Over the years Bowser and Duke became fixtures on the farm. The two of them could be counted on to always be there to great us when we came home. Both were kind of scaredy cats and often could be found under a bed after a thunder storm.

It was the hardest thing to leave them at the farm when Paula and I moved to Rainbow, but there seemed to always be someone there.


About a month ago, Duke, in a very uncharacteristic move ran into the road and was hit by a truck. It was a very traumatic thing for us, but we still had Bowser. And then within about 10 days, Paula noticed a lump on the side of Bowser's head. After a few days she took him to the Vet, only to find out that he had an advanced case of bone cancer, and had only days to live. Our good friend Dave Barno who owns the Vet Clinic we go to, brought the shot over, and we were able to be with him during the last few minutes of his short life here.

It was actually a sweet moment in spite of the pain. It was a moment when the reality of life beyond this one became once again crystal clear. I look forward to seeing Duke and Bowser again. I honestly hope that Uncle Tim was there to welcome Bowser to the other side. I feel genuine love for these two individuals who were so devoted to our family and truly a part of it.

Bowser really hated having his picture taken. Consequently we don't have many, but forget we won't!

Peace Out.

7 comments:

Leslie said...

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”- Roger Caras

Chelle said...

What a great picture.

I haven't been emotional about this until now. Thanks for the post.

That is such a classic Nathan place as well. Laying on his back on the floor after working outside all day.

Christian and Kennebec Vial said...

aww...thanks for that dad, dogs are the best...We almost bought another one today:)

ashley said...

I loved those two big lovable brutes. They will definitely be missed. Thanks for the wonderful words. :)

paula said...

We took turns taking care of him the last week. He didn't mind being here during the day but at night he was ready to go to the Natlins or the Beesley's. Didn't really like our Rainbow house at night. It was a very Bitter sweet day when we decided to put him down. Not really the same when we go up to the farm house.Nut they can both run around now without hurting or having to watch out for cars. I HOPE....Good post Rich

Caitlin said...

At least Bowser got a good last few days... nothing beats ribs, t-bone steaks, going on a run and walks, sleeping on a couch, and getting all the lovin' a pup could need! Nathan was going thru withdrawals i thought he was gonna bring home all the dogs he saw that day. Nice Ode.

Darilyn said...

I didn't know this. that is very sad, thanks for writing about it.