Memoir To Dusty the Dog

I remember the first time I saw her, She looked like a little feather-duster With two black eyes darker than the sky. Slits of pleasure that you saw and loved instantly. I remember her fuzzy legs sprinting towards me down the hall, It was as if she was my best friend who hadn't seen me in a year, Even though I had just woken from yet another night. Her fluffy, curly tail wiggled in sheer excitement, Wagging like there was no tomorrow. I Remember the first time she played in the snow, The only childhood snow that I clearly remember, The rest, the rest blur together like a faded painting, But I still Remember. She bounded up the stairs with her tongue lolling out. Dripping snowflakes clung to her, forming snowballs. Dangling from her like icicles from a roof. She shivered, innocently, laughter shone in her eyes, It was as though she had made a joke that she didn't understand. I Remember the first time she chased her tail. I Remember when she started barking at the door. I Remember when she played tag with her nose; The triumphantly proud look that crossed her face, A victory every time. I Remember when she ran in circles around the house, An Energizer battery that just wouldn't go out. I Remember thinking of her while I was at school. Reminding myself that no matter how people might think of me, That my funny little dog would never judge me. I remember that unconditional love and miss it, Because I still Remember. Beth Watkins Pick A Pet Contest 07/05/11