Charlie

My heart is breaking even now, but for memory's sake, I want to have some thoughts and pictures written down. Yesterday, we had to say a tearful, unexpected goodbye to our beloved chocolate lab, Charlie. Charlie was a graduation gift to me when I finished college in 2007, and the first dog I ever owned. He kept me company many nights alone in my apartment the summer before I started teaching and the fall before Sean and I got married. He was the easiest puppy I could have asked for. He slept all the time and rarely ever had potty accidents. He didn't beg for food and I never once heard him bark. He rode in the back seat of Sean's car the night we drove to Charleston to get engaged. He sat under the table the day we celebrated my college graduation. He went to the park with Sean and I countless times to run and play frisbee. He moved with us many times. He waited excitedly at the door to greet baby Porter and baby Savannah when we got home from the hospital. Charlie has been a part of our family for as long as we have been a family. Having never owned a dog before, I had no idea what to expect losing a dog might feel like. It feels horrible. It is gut wrenching sadness that you couldn't possibly prepare yourself for. Our home feels like something is missing and there is a hole in my heart with a sinking feeling because I know we won't see him run and play here again. Our other dog, Lola, is grieving with us. She is completely lost and so are we. I had no idea what a big part of our family he was until he was gone. I know that time and The Lord will heal our hearts, but we will miss Charlie forever. He was an amazing dog. Charlie had a wonderful life filled with people (big and small) that loved him so much. I am so thankful for the time we had with him and the memories we were able to make. But what I wouldn't give to have had him around longer. I hate so much that the dog that made our kids love dogs is one they won't remember. I had so many pictures in my mind of the kids running and playing with him and being able to take him for walks as they got older. I hope he knew how loved he was! If you're reading this and have a dog, go give them a treat. Just for being a loyal part of the family. We love you Charlie!