Our Family Loss

A week ago today a member of our family, Chewy, went to doggie heaven. I am up early this morning thinking about the events that took place a week ago today and I am still in shock. The day before everything appeared to be fine with Mr Chew. Then on Tuesday morning he was not eating or walking. his breathing was labored and his eyes droopy. Collins called me at 8:15AM to check on Chewy because he had not eaten and it was then I noticed 2 goodies remained untouched on the floor (this NEVER happens). At 11:15AM Chewy, Lawson, Wesley and I arrived at the vet office. By 2:30PM we were saying our final good-byes. They said Chewy had a tumor on his spleen which had ruptured. We had no idea he had a tumor and the vet said when it ruptures it happens very very fast.

I have to say the kids are taking it pretty well. Tuesday evening I was crying talking with a friend outside. Lawson was riding her bike and talking on the phone (multi-tasker) and she stopped and said "Mommy, I am talking with Jesus and he said to stop crying because Chewy is okay now." This is my 4 year old daughter saying this to me. Amazing!! At the same time children have no reserve. She brings up that Chewy is in heaven at least 5-7 times a day especially when she is eating and says "Mommy, I am sad Chewy is not coming back. I am not hungry."

Wesley on the other hand had begun saying "good dog, good dog" which was a step above what Lawson would say at his age, which was "no dog, no!!" Wesley will randomly go looking for Chewy especially after snack time. It was his habit to leave a little bit of his afternoon snack in his hand to give to Chewy. On Wednesday, Wesley had his cheese in his had for about an hour (Outside) before I made him throw it away. This broke my heart!

We are really going to miss Chewy. He was a member of our family and our loyal friend. He was always so HAPPY to see us and he LOVED the children. There are so many stories of Mr Chew. He truly was a dog with 9 lives. He has broken out of fences, kennels, and buildings (seriously). He's had more surgeries because of self inflicted wounds. His memory was amazing and he always knew when you needed some love.

The house is not the same without him. Collins always told me to stop complaining about the dog hair because one day it would be gone and I would miss it. He was right! I miss the dang dog hair!!

In remembrance of our beloved dog I thought I would do a little walk down memory lane. The best pictures of Mr Chew are not digital. It is funny how in almost every electronic album I have there is a picture of Chewy.

Chewy in his glory!! On the water

Collins and his best friend.

Our family in 2004. B.K. (Before Kids)

Chewy and his mommy

Chewy and his buddy Butler

Then another bundle of joy came around and she LOVED Mr Chew

Lawson and Chewy Spring of 2008 (always watching over the kids)

Wesley and Chewy Nov 2008

Lawson and Mr Chew!! I love this picture

Our escort service down the drive way!

Chewy may your run free in heaven, eat all you want, and play all day!!! We love you and will never forget you! Thank you for being the best friend any family could have!! We miss you!

Also, to our friends and family that have reached out to us. Thank you!! Thank you!! Your love and support is greatly appreciated!!