Happy Birthday/Gotcha Day to my Captain!! Dear Killian, 3 years ago, I was one of the first to arrive at NOAH. I'd been checking on you all week, having known we needed to bring each other home from the first moment I met you the week prior. I was so happy you were still there and I rushed in to sign in and write down who I was there to see. At the time, your name was Tookie and the staff kept telling me "Tookie is really shy" almost as if it should deter me. I just reiterated that I'd met you the week before and I loved you. I was determined to bring you home no matter what. When you arrived into our house, you were so skinny and terrified of everything. The beautiful fur that everyone loves now was barely there. You crouched on my lap or in a corner. You thought the mat outside was your bed and I cried. I hate that you were ever hurt and if I could go back and time and save you earlier I would. I know you'd do the same for me. You grew, and we helped each other be free. We've walked through so much together and learned with and from each other. Now we've got your mama and your sister. We still have your auntie and your brother. We have your other auntie and your friend. Our family has grown but it's still ours and we love it so. You love to go on runs with me, sleep by your sister, play with your brother, cuddle with your moms, go for walks and hikes, explore new things (like the snow at Christmas), make everyone smile, and meet everyone. We conquered Mt Si together and you were pulling me up the mountain, so happy and excited - defying everyone who said you were too small to be up there. You're always exceeding what everyone expects of you and going further than they thought possible. I don't know where I'd be without you love bug. I'm so so grateful you waited for me and that we continue to love each other and help each other learn. I love you so much my baby boy, my little church, my cuddler, my hiking buddy, my Captain, my Killian. Happy Birthday and Gotcha Day, Killian! You are so loved ❤️ #captainkillianjack #dachsundgoldenretriever #noahanimalshelter #gotchaday #birthday #dogsofinstagram #dogs