Seven and 1/2 years ago, my husband found our beloved Blackjack at the North Shore Animal League. We were having trouble conceiving a baby and I so longed for someone to take care of. It was a cold December night and we went to the shelter looking for a puppy. Couldn't really find one we liked. On the way out I misplaced my husband. He was in the play area with the most gorgeous Weimaraner I have ever seen. I thought he belonged to someone. Turns out he was available for adoption. We took him home that night and for the next seven and 1/2 years, this dog became one with us, our now 2 children and anyone else who entered our lives. His personality was so unique and he made us laugh so many times. When our children were born, he was cautions around them, as if he knew they were fragile. He ate everything in site, which was why we had to put everything away, and put locks on the cabinets. He slept right between my husband and I in bed every night and followed us around the house wherever we went. His presence was huge. Sadly and unexpectedly, we had to put him to sleep Friday, September 5, 2008, just 4 months shy of what would have been his 9th birthday. Our home is so empty without him. The pain we are experiencing is so excrutiating. I long to hold him and kiss him and fight him for position in our bed. I'm praying every day that he is okay and not angry with us for having him leave this earth. He was sick and there was nothing we could do to make him better. Blackjack boy, we miss you so much. I hope you are playing with other doggies where you are and I know one day we will be reunited again. I'm kissing you in my dreams.. Mommy