Rainey Day Birthday

Ten years. I used to listen to my parents talk about time passing in a blink. I’m them, in more ways than I can count.

Time is strange. Bringing this beady eyed black beauty home feels like both yesterday and another lifetime.

Do you celebrate your dog’s birthday?

Our every day revolves around Rainey, so we’ve been celebrating extra for her birthday week. As of today, her actual birthday, she’s had enough of us. Are you as nauseous as she or down with dog talk?

Our last dog was a shadow; Rainey gets claustrophobic.

Sorry love, you are loved.

See that face? Claustrophobic, from the beginning. 

While strange getting used to at first. I grew to love what made her, her. She’s independent and likes her space. Reminds me of someone I know (Aviana and me too).

She loves on her own time, so when she does—she means it.

At the time we adopted Rainey, we hadn’t the time to train her, she needed none. At six months, she was perfect. No matter where we go, people comment on her behavior, we take no credit. She’s patient, calm, and loyal.

And in her own way, loving too.

She’s also a goof…

Whose life revolves around rolling, bounding, and barreling through snow.

And basking in the sun. 

She climbs mountain tops,

And kicks back.

But has tremendous experience caring for her family.

Especially one girl in particular. From the day they met, until she left—Rainey never left her side. 

My heart was obliterated the day we met Rainey, never have I been saved. She did and continues to every day. There’s no purer love. I thank her for bringing the best in me each day.

I’m sorry we beg you to sleep with us, to sit on our laps, to cuddle, that we cover you in hugs and kissies, that we sing a million silly songs about and to you, that you have to memorize so many names, that we keep you up all night baking and being loud…

And at 3 today, we’re going to have you wear a hat we spent hours making for the Zoom birthday party we invited all your friends to.

It’s all out of love Rainey. When you have the hat on and we’re snapping pictures, remember, pure love.

Rainey Girl.

Thank you.