Saturday, December 31, 2011

Auld Lang Syne - Times Gone By


New Years is a time for celebration, fresh starts, and an opportunity to remember cherished memories thus as this year winds down I find myself reflecting upon New Years Eves spent with Erin. Daylight gives way to darkness and we wander over to a friends house for the traditional neighborhood party; this is an event we attended for most of Erin's life and one most looked forward to for many reasons. Friends, family, and strangers alike gather to usher in another year but before that time comes there is much socializing to be done; Erin hovers near me as greetings and introductions are made and as the only dog she reaps the benefits of constant attention. Folks are huddled around a blazing fire pit upon which bushels of oysters are being steamed while the garage has been transformed into a place to graze upon an endless array of goodies. The garage is doggie heaven as ham, turkey, chicken nuggets, cheeses, breads, cookies, cakes, and other tantalizing foods sit unattended; Erin sniffs the air while ogling the tables. "Don't you even think about it" and with that her attention is directed elsewhere. When I believe no one is looking tasty morsels are tossed into the air which she snags with little effort and later when we're all alone she totally has her fill :)

Fireworks erupt overhead in a multitude of colors and patterns then the sky goes dark before another round of pyrotechnics fills the air. Whistles and screeches ring out without warning as streaks of light race across the sky before vanishing in a blink of the eye while others emit radiating heat on the ground before exploding with a startling bang. Boxes and boxes of fireworks are ignited and it's a joy for all to witness except for Erin whom is not nearly as impressed as by the abundance of food. We lie together on the ground to watch the aerial display before moving on to something more stimulating to a dog's senses and that came in the form of children...Kids of all ages show interest and entice her to play which she does without hesitation. I observe youngsters running around the dimly lighted backyard with Erin in pursuit before stopping to engage in a round of dog and child talk. Balls and sticks are thrown but she refuses to play fetch despite their passionate pleas; I keep watch over her for safety's sake and periodically she checks in with me before rejoining the fun. Impromptu games of kickball occur while Erin acts as a cheerleader for all who participate.

Playtime continues until I'm discovered eating then the kids are forced to entertain themselves. A mountain of steamed oysters lie on makeshift tables and folks crowd around to get their share; armed with a shucker I began the tedious task of cracking them open. Erin's intent stare bores a hole through me as she tries to get my attention but playfully she's ignored even as my leg is nudged then a paw touches my arm; I smirk and pretend to not notice her though a beaming smile and tail wag are clearly seen. Finally eye contact is made as an oyster is tossed onto the ground followed by another then another; a plastic bucket filled with discarded shells is evidence of our feast while Erin licks her lips in approval. With cup of coffee in hand I sit next to a roaring fire in an attempt to warm up; childhood friends fill me in on the details of the past year while inquiring about mine; inevitability Erin becomes a conversation topic and all are impressed as I sing her praises as a therapy dog, etc. Adolescent boys thrust marshmallows upon sticks into the fire while Erin takes it all in with a grin; she is offered one but as I suspected refuses to even consider it.

By the time midnight arrives we were usually sound asleep but that was quite alright as our bellies were full, hearts content, and bond strenghtened; these New Years Eve gatherings will always be remembered fondly as I brought in another year with my best friend. Happy New years to you and your loved ones!!

28 comments:

  1. The connection between you both is amazing, David. I'm sure Erin is smiling down on you as you begin another year. May it be a blessed one for you! ♥

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  2. David, this is such a touchingly beautiful memory of Erin. She was such a charmer! She will always have a special place in your heart . . .
    I pray that this new year brings blessings and new memories for Cody and you.

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  3. @Corinne I'm sure Erin is never far away as she is never far from my thoughts. Looking forward to 2012 as it holds much promise . Happy New Year!!

    @Martha Erin had the ability to sway folks to get what she desired...I was charmed for years :) Cody and I forge new memories everyday, he's a great friend!! Happy New Year!!

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  4. The way this was written was very soft and relaxing. Thank you for sharing your memories :)

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  5. What an amazing New year's eve you both shared together...one of many it seems! I love reading about your experiences with Erin..and love your writing style!

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  6. @J.R. Thanks for visiting and the kind words! I'm honored to share Erin's story...glad there's an audience to hear it. Happy New Year!!

    @Jessica We attended the party for 7 years until Erin passed, it was a great time every year. Chris moved so no more New Year Eve bashes otherwise Cody would be attending with me. Thanks for the compliments!! Happy New Year to you and the family!!

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  7. The way you can put your relationship with Erin into words makes me feel as if I were there and a part of it. Thank you for sharing your memories so eloquently with us. Happy Near Year to you and Cody.

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  8. Jan You and everyone else were there as I recalled those special times with Erin. Thanks for being a part of this journey!! Happy New Year!!

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  9. Thank goodness for our memories, where love never dies. Happy New Year and beyond!

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  10. Adrienne True love never dies or fails to inspire!! Happy New Year!!

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  11. David, Wish you a very Happy New Year. Erin is standing next to my Dad in heaven and waving at both of us. We live because we remember, let's live life happily, my friend. Lovely post...

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  12. Hello David. Happy New Year!
    This post of yours brings a tear to my eyes. The love you shared was like no other. Your heart is full of Erin as I'm sure hers was of you when she was with you.
    When everything else is withering around us, love will always remain.
    Wonderful, nostalgic moments.
    Thank you for sharing.

    My first post for 2012:
    A Poet's Immortal thoughts

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  13. @Sulekkha Happy New Year! Sure your father and Erin are both enjoying each others company :)Life is enriched by the love and memories of the past. Blessings!!

    @Andy Glad my words have the ability to convey the feelings I hold for Erin and as a gifted poet you certainly understand love, passion, and commitment. I'd like to think that my bond with Erin was unique. Happy New Year!!

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  14. what a beautiful story...as I'm reading I can't help but to think about the bond and love someone has with an animal. I did not have this growing up so it is very touching to read about this type of bond -- I so want this for my children and the more I visit your blog I find that I would welcome it for myself!

    Such wonderful, fun memories with Erin you share!!!

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  15. Erin will always be in your heart and soul, no one can ever take that away from you. Your memories will always make you smile. Here's to making more memories in 2012!

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  16. @Amy I never had that connection with dogs growing up either but with Erin everything was different. That would be wonderful if your family could find a forever dog!! Blessings :)

    @Mary When the physical presence of a loved one leaves memories comfort those left behind amd I'm fortunate to have many cherished memories. Thanks for visiting!!

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  17. Awh, sweet musings. Happy New Year!

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  18. Pam Happy New Year to you!! Thanks for stopping by :)

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  19. What a wonderful memory and what a great party! I felt as if I was there! The style of your writing and the laid back warm description of the party are great complements to each other.

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  20. Erin's memory will never fade... she will always live on in your heart... Beautiful memories only get stronger and deeper as it moment passes by...
    May 2012 be a year filled with much more...

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  21. @Lynne They were great parties and a wonderful way to bring in the New Year. I'm thankful Erin was at my side during them all. Thanks for visiitng!!

    @Savira Love your insight on this post and indeed memories become stronger with each retelling thus this blog. Happy New Year!!

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  22. We can never turn back the pages of time, though we may wish to relive a happy moment, or say goodbye just one last time, we never can, because the sands of time continue to fall, and we can't turn the hourglass over.Sometimes, no matter how much faith we have, we lose to death. But you never forget them. And sometimes, it's those memories that give us the strength to go on.
    Erin will always be there for u...Happy new year David.

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  23. Happy New Year David! Living without Erin cannot be easy especially around Christmas and New Year. May 2012 be the year where you and Cody make new memories together.

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  24. @Alpana Well said!!! We can't go back in time but with memories the glorious past can be relieved as desired. Happy New Year!!

    @Nelieta Holidays are never easy without loved ones but go on we must. My reflections on time with Erin gives me strength!! Cody is blazing his own trail and our book adds a new chapter everyday. Happy New Year!!

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  25. Happy New year to you and Cody. Your bonding with Erin never ceases to amaze me. She will always live in your heart and memories and so will you in hers.

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  26. I always felt that Erin was always there next to you. Erin is there and feels so real. Glad to be part of your memories.

    A blessed new year to you and yours, dear David.

    God bless you.

    Joy always,
    Susan

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  27. @Rimly There are many more stories for all to hear regarding my time with Erin and hopefully they move you as well Thanks for visiting. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!!

    @Susan Thanks for the reassuring words...It's a comfort to think of Erin near me. Glad you're prt of this journey!! Happy New Year my friend!! :)

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  28. You and Erin certainly had a very special bond. Happy New Year!

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