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AndyS

(14,559 posts)
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 02:54 PM Sep 2022

Remembering Nikki.


It has been close to two years since my little dog Nikki departed.

In her last few years we were inseparable, joined at the ankle as it were. Everywhere I went she went, never more than a breath away. Anytime I had to leave her she stood on the second floor balcony waiting for me. Cataracts aside she recognized my car a block away and went into a paroxysm of joy; spinning, barking and dancing as if I'd been gone for days.

After fifteen years the arthritis slowed her a bit but not enough to forsake the morning walks. She could no longer see clearly but oh so many doggy enticing odors! Should she come across a mouse track I would just have to be content to wait because she wasn't budging until she went 'nose blind'. On the other hand should it begin to rain she's slip the leash and I'd find her waiting by the front door. She didn't much care for either cold or wet.

In the scheme of things I suppose it's a good thing she was so devoted in those last two years. Not just for the affection she shared but because had she not been there I would not likely be here sharing this with you today. My life changed is ways I'd not thought possible. For the first time in my seventy odd years I was completely alone and isolated. Every morning I'd start the coffee and stare at that ninety day supply of prescription medication debating if I really wanted to do this again tomorrow. Every morning Nikki would be there at my feet reminding me that I wasn't really alone. No, not today . . .

Her passing was unexpected and tragic but that's not a story for today. Today I celebrate her and her time with me. She now lies in repose in the back yard under the Morning Glory vine where she has flowers spring through fall. A dragon figure stands watch over her and the Morning Glories pay tribute to the beautiful soul she is.

Thank you, sweet Nikki.

19 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Botany

(72,385 posts)
2. Nikki is still alive in your being.
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 03:00 PM
Sep 2022

You might want to think about being a dog foster dad that will take in a dog until they
go to their forever homes or some volunteer work at a dog shelter or adopting an older
dog.

CaliforniaPeggy

(151,961 posts)
4. What a beautiful tribute to your dear Nikki...
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 03:04 PM
Sep 2022

You captured her spirit so well. And of course, the photos are wonderful.

She helped save your life, and for that, we are so very grateful.

Thank you, dear Andy.

Diamond_Dog

(34,536 posts)
5. Aw geez, now I'm tearing up.
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 03:07 PM
Sep 2022

Sometimes I think we humans don’t deserve dogs.

Thank you for your touching tribute to your little angel, AndyS

peacebuzzard

(5,264 posts)
7. I know this feeling, I am so sorry for your loss.
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 03:56 PM
Sep 2022

I had a beautiful Nikki too, a beautiful soul, just like yours.
So sorry, my friend.

billh58

(6,641 posts)
8. Deepest condolences Andy.
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 03:56 PM
Sep 2022

Some of my best friends are resting only a few feet from where they used to sleep with me. I miss them all very much, and can't wait to see them again.

wendyb-NC

(3,764 posts)
9. What a beautiful dog
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 04:31 PM
Sep 2022

So sorry for your loss. It is so hard at times, the pets are family. She sounds like she was a precious companion. I love your saying

that the 2 of you, were "joined at the ankle". Treasure the joyful, and triumphant times you had together. Peace and blessings. Nikki

R.I.P.

niyad

(119,637 posts)
16. Thank you for being such a wondetful dad to this precious little being.
Sat Sep 17, 2022, 05:56 PM
Sep 2022

And thank you for sharing her with us. May her memory bring you joy.

hugggggs

AmBlue

(3,436 posts)
18. A wonderful soul
Sun Sep 18, 2022, 01:48 AM
Sep 2022

You were blessed to have each other. And that's a lovely portrait of her too!

My condolences.

7wo7rees

(5,128 posts)
19. She was and still is just beautiful!
Sun Sep 18, 2022, 09:58 AM
Sep 2022

She's still by your side, every day and night.

Schnauzer's are the best.

Ms7wo7rees

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