After 13+ of your 14 years in this world that you spend with us, you have finally been released into the next life on 15 March 2008 at 20:15 . Although I know you can run and play like you used to and you can breath without effort, I am going to miss you terribly.
Every morning started with you. In fact, you were my alarm. I awoke by the sound of you jumping off the bed, and standing in front of the door, asking me to take you down stairs.Every evening ended with you when I carried you back upstairs to the bedroom. I want you to know that you were never a burden to us, and that I would have done it for another 100 years if we both could live that long!
It has been 7 months after your operation. 7 months that we could steal off your new life to stay with us a little longer. Because I know it wasn't easy for you, I want to thank you for your sacrifice.
I also know that your one wish for us is to remember you as you were when you were still young and full of life. My image of you will always be your playful manner of spreading your front legs, ready to move fast in any direction, waiting for someone to chase you. And when you thought it was time for a snack, that you would bark in the highest pitch possible (and most unexpectedly) that would make the largest man jump with surprise! And then when you still don't get what you want, you go for the closest toes and bite (nibble really)!
I can see you run around in circles, playing with the other dogs, and with us. And then you suddenly slows down, roll around in the grass (you're not allergic anymore!), making grunting noises with ever quick turn, to the left, and then to the right.
What else can I say Ysterman, YOU LOVED YOUR FOOD!! We could give you anything and you would gobble it down. You taught us to enjoy life, to live to the fullest, and to be grateful for what you have. You have taught us that if you don't get what you want, then you ask for it. If you still don't get it, demand it!
You taught us the best of times is spend in nature with family and friends, to protect those dear to you and to stand up for yourself and for what is right. You have taught us humility to accept help from others if you cannot continue on your own any longer, and to know that in those times you are lifted higher than you could ever reach on your own, and that there is nothing to be ashamed of to accept help when you need it.
You have taught us to start each day early, as life do not wait for anyone. Embrace each day with its limitations and adventures. Although each day brings you closer to your dreams, it also brings you closer to the next life, so do not waist a day without telling those around you that you love them, and make sure you spend time with them every day, not someday.
You have taught us to laugh, and to have fun! If you don't have fun and you don't enjoy life, what is the point then, really? Enjoy your physical abilities while you still can, but if you loose them, don't whine... carry on with everything you've got. Some days will be better and some days will be worse, but every day is a gift.
Thank you for the past 13+ years. You will always be in our hearts, in our thoughts and we know we will see you again!! And when you visit us from time to time, and we are still morning over you, just remember we only morn for ourselves. But we will find comfort in the fact that you are free! Free from pain, free from the limited physical body, free from your allergies and your heart condition.
You are now with your new (old) family, we know that you had one big party last night, and everyone attended: Zulu, Tekkies, Stanzi, Benos, Tosca, Sheena, Tico, Debbie, and yes maybe even Mr Little and 'Piet die rot' (yes Lazer, he is almost as big as a cat, but he's a rat!).
O yes, thank you for the fart you send us last night to let us know you were here. I get the feeling we will get those little 'presents' (pardon the pun) from time to time!
Till next time dear friend!
