Sunday, December 4, 2011

In the Beginning


This photo is very special to me and brings back many fond memories as it's the first photo of us together. Erin had been with me for 2 months when this shot was taken at Mom's house and little did I know how special our relationship would ultimately become. While my heart was stolen in little time, the decision to get a puppy was not made in haste nor was there any aspect that wasn't researched to the utmost of my ability. Magazines on dog breeds and the internet were scoured for dog-related information as I generated a short list of breeds based on my required criteria. A female was preferred for several reasons and there would be no compromise on that issue nor that she be long-coated. Size, intelligence, attractiveness, temperament, trainability, health issues, etc were studied and three worthy finalists made the cut with the English Springer Spaniel being exactly what I sought. My future companion was awaiting me but first had to be found and on a chilly January day that event occurred and neither one of us would ever be the same.


A 45 minute drive from Savannah led me to a rural setting where dogs could be heard barking from behind the house; an enclosure with a litter of puppies and mom with sagging teats were spotted as the owners came out to greet me. The pups excitedly licked and nibbled upon my fingers through the fence while yelping for my undivided attention but one bundle of fur caught my eye...She showed genuine interest in me without the over exuberance of her siblings and that carried much sway but the process was far from over. Each of the adorable youngsters were held, examined, and scrutinized with the floppy-eared girl continuing to capture my attention until finally I decided she would make a great addition to my life. It was hard to not feel sorry for the mother as I clutched her baby; those soulful eyes expressed sadness as undoubtedly she knew another child was leaving forever and indeed that's what happened.




Towels were placed upon the passenger seat for the ride home but she refused to stay put and repeatedly climbed over the center console to be near me. Her determination was greater than mine thus I allowed her to remain on my lap where a finger was offered in an effort to quiet the whimpering and in due time she fell asleep suckling my index finger. Estastically a smile was plastered on my face as this innocent sweet creature was now part of the family and the next step was naming my new friend though that didn't take much thought as one had been chosen already. Erin was bestowed upon her and it seemed a good choice as the years went by; The name of Irish origin means "Peace" and she certainly brought that to my life. She was taken back to the apartment where every scent was repeatedly inhaled while that inquisitive puppy nature had her investigating everything within reach; Erin would dash off only to return a minute later to check on my whereabouts. Before days end we visited family members whom spoiled her rotten but the excitement wore the youngster out and with that it was time to return home for deserved sleep.

We survived our first day together and many many more; I look upon that day as the beginning of the best period in my life while giving my heart to Erin remains the wisest decision I ever made!! RIP Erin!!

28 comments:

  1. David what a beautiful story. Even from the beginning she needed to be close to you and would search you out when in a crowd. I love the meaning behind her name. It was perfect for her and became a part of her presence that everyone could feel when they were around her...including you. I love the way she just patiently waited for you to pick her over the rest. It was a match made in heaven. The photo's of Erin as a baby are precious...she was soooo cute. Even then she looked right into the camera. It is no coincidence you were meant to share your lives. So much love given and received...then becoming that example to others to bask in when you made your travels and touched others. Thank you so much for telling us how your Journey of Love with Erin began...( I love the way she curled up in your lap in the Journey home..the beginning of a trust that never ended) ...xx

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  2. What touching story..and such a sweet puppy face!

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  3. @Leeann Erin coming into my life was destined from above and together we were perfect. Things got better and better with every passing year to the point near perfection. I'm glad I took a few pics when she was young for memories sake...They bring back good thoughts when looked at. Thanks for stopping by and the great comment!! :)

    @Amy Thanks for the kind words and she was sweet indeed...

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  4. What a beautiful story. Erin was certainly a darling pup. I love the way she decided you were to be her companion and communicated it with her lovely eyes and looks. Your posts always move me so much.

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  5. Mari Appreciate the nice words!!Erin was a cutie pie til the very end...She received so many compliments over the years. She was heaven sent and blessed my life beyond words, so glad she spoke to me thru those expressive eyes. Thanks as always my friend!!

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  6. The way you wrote your story made me feel like I was there too on the very first day you met your Erin. I don't doubt you two had an awesome companionship :)

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  7. What a wonderful love story of the 2 of you. Erin was indeed an adorable pup. I am so happy for you that you were able to have her i your life, what a blessing. The fact that she chose you is superb, my little Yona chose us as well. Sweet loving memories that you share, so wonderful of you to give us a peek into you life with her.

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  8. Touching story.. those eyes could melt any heart! Absolutely adorable

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  9. What a beautiful, beautiful story David! Wow, she was such an adorable puppy! I would have just hugged her to bits!

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  10. @Hamlet's Lair It's my honor to retell these stories to my blogging family. So glad you stopped by...Take care!!

    @Jan She was adorable as a youngster but then most puppies are. Erin was truly a blessing and an amazing gift from above...I'm sure Yona has touched your life in ways that humans never can..Animals are special in that regard. Thanks for visiting :)

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  11. @Savira Her eyes were very expressive and described by many as "Soulful". Erin usually got anything she wanted when her sad look was displayed...Many treats were gained that way :)

    @Nelieta I'm so glad that you enjoyed the post, makes me happy to hear that!! Erin loved human interaction and would've enjoyed many hugs from you. Blessings!!

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  12. Erin is/was beautiful and you are blessed to have these photos for memories. Your story shows your special relationship. They do steal our heart...its amazing how they do this without a word, but plenty of love.

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  13. What a beautiful story....I love the pictures too.Some bonds are made never to be broken...

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  14. Hello.
    This is such a touching story & one to which I can relate, being a former dog owner myself. Erin was beautiful. Pets have a way of soothing our hearts when no one else can & they understand a lot more than we give them credit for.
    It's nice that you have photos of her. She;s a part of you & the memory of her will always remain in your heart.
    Thank you for sharing.

    For ref:
    Our Candlelight Of Love

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  15. David, Reading your post makes me happy and sad as well. Erin and her pictures and stories bring so much joy. She was adorable and you understood her feelings right away.Losing her must have been so tough, I can't imagine your pain. Memories keep her alive and wipes the tears, bringing a smile to our lips...RIP Erin.

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  16. @Crystal Mary Animals speak and move us without uttering a single word. Erin had much love to give and she did that on a daily basis. Thanks for visiting!!

    @Alpana The connection I established with Erin will never be broken nor will there be another bond quite like that

    @Andy My heart, soul, and mind hold so many great memories thus it's easy to pour them out..Dogs are wiser and more passionate than humans for sure. Appreciate you stopping by!!

    @Sulekkha The hard part of loving someone is they will pass away and pain will be experienced. I knew the day would come eventually but was devastated when it did occur...Love and pain are intertwined. Thanks for your support my friend!! :)

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  17. Aww!! This s such a cute n touching story David n I can completely relate coz I too have a pet n I love him soo much...

    She s soo close to u n above all she s sooo cute....
    U inspired tht I too shud write something abt my pet SONA he s a BOXER...:)

    Love
    MAni

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  18. What an amazing story David! It's a difficult process looking for a pet that is just right for you, but it's even harder to let go. It sounds as though you have made wonderful memories that will last a lifetime, no matter whoever may come into your life. Yes Erin, RIP :)

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  19. You know David I am planning on having a pup and I can imagine what you felt when you first Erin. I think you both chose each other. You all were meant for each other.

    http://rimlybezbaruah.blogspot.com/2011/02/our-journey-someone-said-love-happens.html

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  20. David, you really did a lot of research before deciding on a pup. Sure signs of dedication.

    I loved how you took her to visit family. Erin truly was more than a pup to you, and it shows throughout your memoirs of her.

    She is precious.

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  21. @Mani Glad you're able to relate to my feelings for Erin as she was much more than a dog to me. You should write about what you're passionate about and if it's Sona then go for it...

    @Anna Loving is the easy part as love flows from the heart but letting go is beyond difficult. So many memories keep Erin close to me and she'll never go far

    @Rimly I wish you luck with your puppy and when it's a good match you'll know it. Enjoy the fun ride!!

    @Debbie I didn't want to make a rash decision and end up with the wrong dog. Erin was undoubtedly the one for me and a match made in heaven. She visited family members and friends daily...never just a dog!!

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  22. Soooooo many cute pictures! Stop making me want a puppy!!! :)

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  23. RIP Erin and you will given that your name itself is 'Peace'. David this was another touching chapter in your life with Erin. I love reading your blog and taking back your memories to be a part of mine.

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  24. @Pokey Puppies and turtles go together like peas and carrots. Get a pup!!

    @Kriti Glad you enjoyed this chapter of how it all began. It was special from the first day...Thanks for stopping by!!

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  25. David...I loved hearing this story, of how Erin came into your life. I loved the first picture of the two of you! The beginning of an amazing relationship of love and adventures and memories that live on through your writing.
    ~blessings

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  26. Jessica...I appreciate you visiting and commenting on this post. Those early days helped form the foundation for our relationship and I hold many pleasant memories of us. The beginning of any relationship sets the tone thus I went the extra mile. Take care!!

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  27. Aww this is very touching! Erin is such a sweet soul! :-)

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  28. Erin is a darling always. the more i see and read the more i am attached to the lovely soul.

    she is really cute and adorable. her 2 months old picture is so cute David, a real baby child. hugs and lots of love to her, where ever she is.

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