Cherishing Moments: Celebrating Eight Years with Kai
In the grand tapestry of my life, one thread stands out in vibrant hues of love, loyalty, and boundless adventure – my heart dog, Kai. It’s hard to fathom that eight years have passed since he bounded into my life, bringing with him a world of joy and companionship. How time flies, is still a hard pill to swallow. The fact that we lost my heart cat earlier this year, didn’t help the day giving it a sad tint. I still tried my best to enjoy it though.
I talk about my dogs a lot, as you may or may not have already realized, but they have changed my life. Kai in particular.
Let me take you on a brief journey so you can appreciate how much this dog has done for me, and how much I love him…
When I was a child, my grandmother had dogs. She lived and breathed animals, but especially dogs. Shows, breeding, owning a grooming shop, being the groomer, you name it and I think at one point she probably did it. The first book I ever saved my money for as a child was the AKC breed book of that year, and I don’t joke when I say I read that book religiously. I loved it, I loved dogs, but my parents would not let me have one. I don’t really recall them ever telling me why, but I know it was always a no.
I couldn’t have cats either. So, once I was 16 and not living with my parents my boyfriend (now husband) got me Cynbhad, my heart cat that I mentioned previously. We lived in an apartment for many years, but I always asked when we have a yard we can get a dog, right? So, once we moved to Arizona, he got me Kai for Christmas of 2015. My beautiful border collie, my heart dog.
Kai went everywhere with me, I was working at an animal hospital at the time, so when I say everywhere, I mean it. He helped me achieve a childhood dream, and I fell in love once again with everything dog. We trained daily, we adventured the world of dog sports, finding out what we liked and didn’t like, met new friends, and explored the desert every week, which taught me the profound peace that nature can bring. Growing up in a City, I never realized what I was missing out on. Now I get antsy when I’m cooped up for longer than a weekend, while I used to be able to sit around and play video games all day and night! Maybe I was growing up? Sure. But, I still believe wholeheartedly that Kai had something if not everything to do with it…
Now, Kai is eight years old. I know, I know, he’s not that old right? In the world of border collies, he’s considered middle-aged, but his energy and enthusiasm rival that of a puppy. But, I still remember my little floofy puppy who wouldn’t eat unless I was in sight, who we drove hours to get and all of the adventures we’ve gone on together.
Our celebration wasn’t a somber reflection on age and mortality; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of love and companionship. With a birthday pie shared with Kita, and a special hiking adventure just for Kai and I, we embraced the moment. Each step we took, every laugh, echoed with the melody of our unbreakable bond. In his presence, I’ve learned that life’s true essence lies in cherishing every moment, in savoring the simple pleasures of a shared hike or a playful game of fetch.
As I look ahead, I know there are countless adventures awaiting us – trails yet to be explored, mountains waiting to be climbed, and memories waiting to be etched into the canvas of our lives. Kai will forever be my heart dog, his unwavering love reminding me that the most beautiful journeys are the ones we take with those we hold dear. So, here’s to many more years of companionship, laughter, and endless trails with my beloved Kai, the faithful friend who turned ordinary days into extraordinary adventures. Here’s to a future filled with welcome home songs and cherished moments, for as long as we both shall live.
