It was a late Thursday night when you took a turn for the worst. You couldn't move, your breath shallow but you crawled onto my lap and let me pet you for about an hour. You were surrounded by all the people who loved you most. You looked up at me and took your last breathe. It was quick. I could feel the life leave your body. I sat with you for a few hours and cried. You were my very first baby, you ruined my shoes, begged at every meal, but you loved us. You loved Jackie boy so much and I will never forget that. We buried you in the backyard. The place you loved to run and play the most.
Our house is quiet now, we laugh a little less and Jack calls for you all. We told him you went to Heaven. I'm sure he doesn't understand but maybe some day he will. I'll tell him you taught him so much about love, loyalty and the best way to treat our fury friend.
We miss you Bogart. Thank you for all the years of love and laughter. We are forever grateful.
Shortly after Bogart's diagnosis we asked our good friend Katrina to take a few "Bogart Bucket List" photos. In September, we went apple picking as a family. The orchard where our little family began. We wanted to have some keepsake photos of Bogart for Jack when he gets older. Katrina sent these to me the day before Bogart passed away. I am so grateful for these images.