In memory of... Rusty

Rusty was a tremendously large part of my life. I don't know how we ever got by without him in our lives, and I don't know how I'll be able to stand going home to NY without knowing that he'll be there to greet me. The last time that happened, I was only 9 years old.

The truth is, Rusty was far more than a pet to me. He was a member of my family, the only brother I had. He had a sweeter, more loving personality than anyone I have ever known. He loved unconditionally, only asking that we spare a moment, or an hour, or a day... or a year if we had it... to pet him and be with him. And in the long run, that's not so much to ask, is it?

Maybe you think I'm making too much of this, but I don't think I am, and all of you who knew Rusty will agree with me. It'll take me a very long time to get over this, if I ever really do. I'll always miss the brightness and joy that Rusty brought into my life. The only consolation that I have is that at the end, he didn't suffer. And I'm sure that my grandma's taking excellent care of him, wherever they both are now. And with her and my grandpa around he's probably already 10 pounds heavier than the last time I saw him. And I'm sure that Sugar is glad to have his company, as well. *sad smile*