Saint Emily

This morning I heard geese overhead, heading for warmer climes ahead of the cold they know is coming. Although we still technically have a week left of summer, this year is turning inexhorably to winter, a time of rest and darkness. It was cold this morning and Emily did something she'd never done before: she came into our room to curl up on the blanket we have down beside our bed in hopes that the other two dogs will sleep there rather than on our blankets. I think it was because she was cold in the living room and wanted a place to sleep in out of the drafts. Matt tells me that it was her way of saying, "I love you and we had a good life together. I know it's time and I think I'm ready."

I'm glad she does not have to face another winter. I was afraid she wouldn't make it through the last one.

Today was one of her good days, which were becoming rarer. I think it helped that she got to sleep in a little longer than normal, since I took the morning off of work. We were early for the vet apppointment, so I took her on a walk through the empty lots near the office. She did get to wag her tail again when she saw Dad. I miss her, and I don't think I'll ever get over the guilt, even though I think it was the right decision.

Emily

June 1996 - September 15, 2009