Going to the Car

When Sam was done being at the barn and ready to go home he would go and lie by the car.  Even over the last few months when walking was tougher for him, I would return to the car and he would be next to the driver's side door having walked there from wherever I left him (within 20 feet of the car). 

One time, several years ago, Abby was dashing about the whole property frantically looking for me everywhere (I was riding Emmy in the field and she didn't see me), people were trying to comfort her and explain that I hadn't left her, she was inconsolable.  Sam?  Sam was lying by the car.  "We came in the car, so we have to leave in the car and Abby, the car is still here, so Mom's still here.  Relax."

Sam also started to "go to the car" other places when he was ready to go.  Here is a picture from this summer in Elkton, Maryland when we were getting ready to leave.  Sam is pictured after he "went to the car" on his own and he's getting a good-bye hug from Reese Khanjar.

My ever wise Mike said to me last night when I was having trouble leaving the Hospital for the final time, "Jen, he's lying by the car now.  It's time to go.  He's lying by the car."  And he was right.  It was time for Sam to go and it was time for me to go.  Sam was lying by the car.

Another lesson.  When it's time to go, go.  Don't monkey around, get going.  If you can't drive yourself, at least go lie by the car.

Love ya', Bud...