What started out as a purchase for a boyfriend, ended up being one of the greatest loves of my life. It was 1995 and into my life came this beautiful 6 week old chocolate lab named Trooper. He was my constant companion at Auburn University. I took him to class, to games, to friends homes, my home, running with me. He went everywhere with me. As time went by, he became part of my soul, one of the best friends a person could have. I miss him, more than anyone knows, he was in my life long before I was married and had children. I guess I'll always look for that big brown teddy bear that no matter where I was, he was always within 5 feet of me. God love him, I know I do. Time cannot erase 13 1/2 years, but hopefully it will heal my broken heart. Losing him was like losing a part of me, a child in many ways. I love you Trooper, I pray that I will see you again some day a long while from now.