Remembering Blackie

Today on the SA Photography Blog 

we are remembering our dog Blackie.

Blackie (Front center) Choo Choo (Behind) pose for a photo on our yard.

Mark Twain once said "Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in". Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

My dog Blackie brought many memories and hysterical moments to me and my family. I was 18 when Blackie roamed into our yard in Utica for the first time. He was guided to our home by our other dog Choo Choo who was in heat at the time. I was timid at first, seeing this large "stud" of a lab wondering around our property. His bark was ferocious, however his inside personality was like a puppy. He was also timid toward us at first but warmed up quickly. He stumbled upon our home a few more instances and not before long he made our home his. Choo Choo and him had one litter of puppies that I helped deliver. It was a very educational experience for me. If I can recall only 2 puppies did not survive but they were all so adorable!

Blackie and Choo Choo's Puppies!

As years went on Blackie remained close to me. He was my dog and my sister Gina always claimed Choo Choo. We spent the days throwing sticks at our cabin and he would  always retrieve them and bring them back. That dog would not stop swimming! He loved to swim! 

Kids weren't a problem either for Blackie. Talk about a very loyal dog who would let any child tug his ear, pull his legs, or sit on his back. He was all around the perfect dog anyone could ask for. I was extremely lucky to have a dog that was good natured to anyone not just children. One of my favorite memories of Blackie was at neighborhood parties we always would dress Blackie up and he would make for some silly costumes!

Blackie dressed up at a neighborhood Mexican party.

Yesterday I got a phone call from my sister saying he was not doing well and she told me that they had to put him down. I knew he was slowing down and not wanting do to a lot. He lived a great life providing joys to so many people. The laughs he provided will remain close to me in my heart. Everyone that met him has a funny Blackie story. 

Like I said, I was lucky, we all were. Not Everyone has a Blackie, nor will there be another dog like him. But the time with him and those experiences shared extend far beyond any estimable price, and the joys last a lifetime.

Will miss you Blackie God Bless!