Obituaries

My Dad once said to me, “It’s just a dog, son”, but I never really thought of it that way. From the very first little Beagle hound that I had, I always thought of my dog as an extension of myself.

Warm, fuzzy… smelling of musk and a bit of outside… my dogs were as much a part of me as breathing. I’ve never just sat and stared into their eyes and said “Dog, you’re just a dog”, rather, I’ve seen them as an extension of my heart and my soul and talked to them as if we shared the same brain.

Bella was different. She was my first “inside dog”, so of course I grew to love her as a child although she didn’t parry my words much over the years. That’s probably a good thing because we all know how painfully ignorant that some kids can be as they slowly learn just how little they actually do know.

But Bella was different.

Although she never experienced the variety of an international lifestyle, I think this pup really gained human wisdom over time. She just seemed to filter knowledge and gravitas from the atmosphere around her. She certainly had her dignity, as all Shar Peis seem to do, but she was also a standoffish sort. Something like an 80-year-old high-society diva in a loosely wrapped fur blanket.

Bella, you were truly a beloved little creature. From our pet nickname “The Lil Bees”, to that small strip of carpet at the top of the stairs that still smells like you, your presence is still felt around our house. I often walk out and sit where we used to cuddle late at night, right before we’d shut the bedroom door and call it another day. I miss that deep sigh… and that lowly rumble you’d make while sleeping at the foot of our bed.

I miss you girl.

The world certainly got a bit more cold and gray the day you left us behind. I know you’re out there somewhere, so keep an eye on us and make sure to keep us honest to your memory. We are less without you here, but one day we hope to see you again. Selfishly, I just want one more of those fuzzy hugs before I call it a night myself…

We love you Bees.

Dad, Mom and the Family.