Yesterday was a perfect morning, wispy clouds in a gorgeous blue sky...cool before the heat of the day would begin. It wasn't really perfect though, because we knew it was Lucy's last morning with us. We wanted to give her a happy send-off while our hearts were breaking. We walked "out back" on the bunny trial. We went to the lake and walked all the way to the point. Lucy just wanted to keep going. That was her amazing spirit and strength. I realize now that she had not wanted to show me how tired and sick she was...Scott knew. The time had come to let her go...to let her be what she always was...free, strong, happy and as fast as the wind.
Lucy taught me so much through the years. I wish I had more of her qualities. She was always happy. She never complained...not one utterance of discontent, pain or suffering. She put us above herself every time!! Her entire purpose in life was to be our devoted friend...to always be there for us...to please us and to make us smile. Pure unconditional love...what a gift she gave!! She welcomed each morning with a good ear shaking and then greeted us with joyous enthusiasm! YIPPEE!! A new day!! She loved listening to the funny songs I made up for her...always wagging her tail when I sang her name. Scott's special "Lucy whistles" also made her tail wag...every time...even yesterday when she was so very weary! She made me laugh when I was sad. She listened to me without judgment...my happiest affirmations and my saddest, innermost thoughts that I shared with her alone. We walked every day...countless miles...enjoying all the beauty of nature that we both so loved...together...in all types of weather...freezing cold, snow, rain, summer heat, winter mornings under starlit skies...me and Lucy...Lucy and me!! I would say to her when we were close to home, "Come on, Lucy Girl, let's make it a strong finish!" You can see by the pictures of her Monday evening and Tuesday morning...that is exactly what she did!! She never faltered even as cancer invaded her body. Her legs were wobbly, her sight was blurry but her spirit remained intact...and she remained happy.
Lucy came to us in a magical way...choosing us to be her people. And, she left us in a magical way...choosing the kitchen floor on a perfect June morning. Scott stroked her ears and while her head rested on my arm, I wrapped myself around her one last time... and she slipped peacefully away... loved beyond measure, smiling, happy and strong to the finish.