He came to us from an unknown place. He did not know what a collar was. He did not know how to jump into a car or how to climb steps. His first meals when we got him were hand fed.  Found wandering lost and alone he came to us. Claire’s friend our boy. Happy and so full if life was he. Growing bigger and stronger with each passing day. He blessed us in many ways. He added so much to our lives. He loved to travel and went so many places. His first trip was to New Mexico, Sante Fe and Taos. His first winter bounding in the snow.

He cherished his little girl Claire and protected her. His broad shoulders his size all made for a very imposing animal. But this gentle giant held nothing but love in his heart. For us for Claire he lived the best life. Spoiled rotten but gave back with his love in so many many ways. I can remember spending nights on the floor sleeping with him when he first came into our home. He had the fear of being left alone. Never would he be left alone once in our home.

Bounding on the grass at Washington Park in Denver. Taking a dip in the Atlantic ocean along the coast of Maine. I will miss his morning routine of launching himself off the front porch galloping around the front yard. Raising his leg on the flagpole as that was his territory. Streaking back to the porch and bobbing up and down like a dancing bear and sat patiently for his reward.

Summers he searched for his buddy Chippy the chipmunk in the front yard. Fall he chased the leaves around the yard. Winter he loved to run in the snow and spring was like the birth of a new life to him.

But now that gentle giant is silent slipping away to doggie heaven on December 26, 2003. A mere six and a half years young he left us. Much too young and so much of life ahead. For some reason God took him from us but we know he is looking down upon us with that crazy grin and protecting us.

He was 90% lab 5% mix and 5% goofy.  From him 100% love. We miss our gentle giant.

The pain and heartache in losing such a wonderful animal is so hard but we will remember the good times and the love he gave to us in his short time with us.

God bless you my boy. My big black loveable lab. I miss you my friend.