When you were a kid, did your parents ever tell you that your favorite dog went to live on a farm, where he/she was now happily running free like the wind? Well, let me tell you a little something – first of all, that dog was probably dead as a door nail. Second of all, not all dogs are cut out for farm life.
Take our little Lucy dog, who pushed her way into our hearts and lives to the point that we adopted her, instead of finding her a home like we had planned. She’s a great dog – smart and affectionate, loyal and sweet. But girlfriend freaks out around large animals. I thought she’d get better about it as she grew, but instead, her reactions got worse.
So, with a heavy heart I made the best decision for her, and found her a loving home with my cousin in Arizona. Who, I might add, had wanted to adopt Lucy for months but I had selfishly declined, planning to keep every ounce of her puppy love for myself.
On Monday I gave her a little spa treatment.
She said good-bye to her big brother, and cuddled up next to him for the last time.
We saw the sunrise.
When we finally found a patch of grass, we took a little break for lunch and a belly rub.
Lucy convinced me to let her out of her crate to roam around the car, and rewarded my confidence by promptly taking a nap. While pretending to be on guard, of course.
After nearly 10 hours on the road, we arrived at our destination: a park in the little town of Blythe, California. When I saw Blythe on the map, I couldn’t resist making it our meeting spot. Now I can tell Blythe I’ve been to “her” town.
We played and had a snack while Lucy bonded with her new family.
Eventually, it was time to say good-bye. I stopped being the mommy and became the auntie.
Lucy loaded up in my cousin’s car and we waved as we drove in opposite directions. She’s off to start her new life, where she’s being spoiled with a big yard, a pool, constant affection and indoor privileges, nary a pig or cow to be seen.
I drove off into the sunset, alone in a quiet car, no wet nose rubbing against my elbow.
A few hours later I arrived at the home of Heather and Mike Spohr in Los Angeles, where I got to meet the world famous Maddie Moo.
Maddie is even cuter and smilier in person than she is in pictures – something I didn’t think was possible. Their little dog, Rigby, brought her boyfriend Mordecai out for a little XXX show, but she must have gotten stage fright and abandoned him on the living room floor. I admit, I was a little disappointed.
Before too long, I took Maddie’s cue and went to sleep. After driving 850 miles in one day, I don’t think even an earthquake could have woken me up. The next morning, I drove the final 450 miles home to my girls, my husband…
And life on the farm without Lucy.
*Today’s post on Sexy Makes a Comeback: Daily Make-up.*
8 replies on “1300 Miles”
ahttp://www…that‘s sweet. i’m sure lucy will be very happy there. and i know she will be loved.
I actually gave a dog away to live on a farm. Aussie’s are just not made for suburban life. He’s much happier and so am I. I’m sure Lucy will love her new home.
So the fact that I am now teary eyed is a testament to fantastic writing and photography on your part, and not mental unbalance on my part, yes?
She looks like a great dog, who will make your cousin’s family very happy.
I can’t believe you drove all that way by yourself? I would go crazy!
It was so great to have you! I am mad at Mike for not waking me up when you left so I could give you a hug goodbye.
I still can’t believe you drove all that way by yourself in less than a day and a half!
Dogs can break your heart in such a unique way– I hope yours heals at least a little soon.
That’s cool you got to meet Maddie– I love that she looks so shocked in that picture, like she would have put on her face if she knew someone had a camera.
I would totally be an animal person for a dog like that. What a touching story.
It was great having you! H and I think you be das bomb!