wasn't it just yesterday?

I was just sitting here thinking about Niki, She was our first dog. She has been gone almost nine years and we still think about her everyday.   I posted this poem a few years ago and thought you might like to read it again.

 Wasn't It Just Yesterday

wasn't it just yesterday

 we brought you home from the shelter?

you taught us how to raise a puppy "your way"

no crates or leashes for you

oh and would you mind putting

chicken in the bowl and not that regular dog food please

wasn't it just yesterday

you waited patiently on the stair?

you taught us that a daily walk was good for the soul

no leash required

and would you mind telling

those other dogs at the park that I am alpha please. 

wasn't it just yesterday

we drove cross country with you by our side?

you taught us to take the back roads

and leashes are sometimes required 

and would you mind telling  

the national park service that dog paw prints are more natural

than people foot prints please.

wasn't it just yesterday

we held you so tight while saying goodbye

you taught us how to let go and hold on at the same time

no leash is required

for the ties that bind our hearts together

is stronger than ever

and would you mind telling

people to hug their dogs please

 because they never know

when it might be their last day.

Niki

Jan 1, 1991 - August 31, 2004

we miss you

paintings by rachael rossman