We had much sadness today. Our neighbor, Marica the dog, was being put down at 12:30 and my plan was to be away during the process to distract me from thinking about her. She had cancer.
 
Just as I was leaving I saw through the window Marica with her family out on their porch saying their final goodbyes. My initial reaction had me turn around quickly and go into the kitchen; wanting to avoid the devastation. Getting a grip I spun back around and headed out in spite of myself.  I headed and across the street for my final goodbye.
 
The mom was taking pictures of Marica as she wiped away tears. Her 11 year old was close by her side crying. The youngest, who is 8, was separated from the others leaning over the railing a bearable distance away. The youngest raised his hand and waved; it was an awkward wave, one filled with confusion about how to be in this circumstance.  The vet whisked by me and into the house. The dad was inside waiting for all to return. The scene was Real.

I gave the closest ones a hug and pet Marica, telling her we loved her. Then I briskly walked to my car and drove off. Crying off course…

On my errands I would intermittently tear up as I thought about a boy and his dog. A boy and his dog is a phrase that we all own. It’s a phrase that speaks to the relationship we have with our pets; they are our friends, they are loved ones.