Goodbye Tucker
My childhood dog of 17 years passed away Sunday. He was truly the kind of soul that changed the people around him. He made everyone better. I received him as an early christmas present December 21st, 1998. My mom left this HUGE (well I was 6 so it probably wasn't that big) present under the tree. For weeks, I would nag and nag to open it. My mom always let me open one present before christmas. Finally, she let me open it. It was a dog bed. Now at 6 years old, I genuinely had no clue what it was or what it meant. I thought maybe this was my new bed or some sort of strange lounging item but I didn't like it. Then my mom said that there was a mistake and the other part of the present was outside.. and here came this happy beautiful dog with lit-up raindeer ears that played "rudoplh the red-nosed raindeer" and a bandana (confused from the get-go) to a shaking, shocked and extremely excited little girl, ME. It was the dog from the pound that mom had taken me to see just a few weeks earlier. He was the only dog not barking at the pound. I remember my mom driving me home and asking what I'd name him if I got to have him and I said "Justin Timberlake." It was 1998. My mom kindly tried to detour me from this name choice saying "Well Kylie, you may not love Justin Timberlake as much in 10 years." To which I respond, "No, Mom. I will always love Justin Timberlake." I was right. However, I realized maybe it was better to not name your dog after your future husband. (Thanks Jessica Biel :P) So I named him Tucker and he became my best friend. I grew up with him. We'd play games, he'd be my only audience member as I performed my songs for him, and he'd be my shoulder to cry on when I had a bad day. I became a more loving and patient person because of his disposition. In the last few years, Tucker began to wither and age in a way I couldn't really deal with. He was frail and had trouble walking. Before this I truly believed he was invincible and this whole experience has made me cherish the time we all have even more. I still didn't think he'd pass away though. But unfortunately, death is inevitable despite our best efforts. Through this pain, I can't help but share memories and laugh about the fun we had. As an only child, I'm lucky I got to experience the feeling of having a sibiling. I can't believe this day came and I wish I could live forever on May 2nd without having to deal with the 3rd, but I will carry his spirit with me forever. For anyone dealing with the loss of pet or family member, I have you in my prayers today.
