I started this post with a title and a quote on May 16, 2011 when Sam said to me, "I'm not a problem to be solved, I'm a dog to be loved." That really hit home when it happened and I've thought about it often in the intervening months. As we began to care for Sam's physical needs more and more, his declaration had even more meaning. I was reminded to spend time with Sam instead of always planning or thinking about him. I'm not sure that I'm content with my balancing act of caring for and being with, though I guess it's water under the bridge now. I do know that he got a lot of kisses and hugs, and "I love yous", and some trips to the barn, and "I missed you today, Buds", and lots of extra pizza bones and treats.
Sam was rarely a very snuggly dog, he loved us thoroughly and knew himself well enough to honor his need for space and so did we. I often watched him sleeping or resting and enjoyed his peace and mine. Sometimes it was hard not to lie with him and hug and snuggle him, especially this last year. He would often tolerate us for a while according to his good nature and in-born manners and sometimes he would move away a bit or turn his head. As if to say, "No hard feelings, I just need a little space, Mom." No worries, Sam, I understand you're a dog to be loved and love doesn't have to mean physical contact or close proximity. You are still a dog to be loved, we're just a little farther apart than we were last week...
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