by Raven Cocchi
On October 9, 1913 my mother, Leona came into this world. A few years later, her dog Milly the rascal, enjoyed hopping into the family car just ahead of Mom. Milly would then apply her entire furry Red Setter body to the nudging of Mom completely off the seat!
Ninety-one years later, on October 9, 2004, long after Leona's demise, a new animal companion came her way. Rowdy, who had been my husband's mixed-breed canine friend 13 years before I met the duo, would have never attempted to push anyone out of a car. For you see Rowdy was the exact opposite of her name. She tagged along with her brother Spike and myself wherever we wandered on our 20 acres. Rowdy loved to follow my husband when he drove his tractor, she never fussed at our felines Brenda and Angel. She loved to have her silky black head caressed, and to roll in the grass. Five years after I met the kind Rowdy, her brother passed away and her health diminshed to the point where we had to have her euthanized. It was only 5 days ago and I hope Mom is Rowdy's companion. Best memory is of the canine siblings seated on a small hill of cedar chips. While they gazed at the moon well above the trees, I was compelled to join them. There we sat in companionable silence. At Rainbow Bridge I hope Rowdy is once again youthful, supple and robust. Always take time to pat your blessed furred angels. Sincerely, Raven (August)