She's On Her Way!

I just got the word that our 19 year old Jack Russell Josie is "getting close."  This reminds of another Uncle Richard story.  I never thought that Uncle Richard would pass away before Josie!!  When Mama and Daddy would come see all of us in Florida, Uncle Richard would check on the dogs, feed them, let them out, etc.  Josie has been old, blind and deaf for years!  Uncle Richard's biggest fear was coming in while Mama and Daddy were at work or on vacation and finding Josie had "passed on."   He always said, "If Josie dies when they aren't here, I am going to bury her, leave the door open and swear that she ran away!!"  There was one problem: I repeat: she has been blind and deaf for many years.  His answer, "I know!  It's weird!!  I don't know how she did it!"  Such an Uncle Richard answer!!   You see, Josie has been the "princess", well, FOREVER.  We got Rufus first, then a month later Josie came to our house.  She was 1/3 of Rufus' size, and she was HELL ON WHEELS.  She beat him up and ruled the roost.  Rufus was just like Daddy:  liked to relax, kick back and watch, just a laid back kind of guy.  Josie was just like Mama: energetic, social butterfly, and aware of everything.   When she could see and hear, she had "certain commercials" that she HATED!  She would bark at the TV, jump and bite at it.  Not all of the commercials contained animals either.  She made you aware of her dislike of commercials.    Josie was a great Mama, had 13 babies from 2 litters, and loved to play with them.
As Josie's time draws to a close, I have to say, "Uncle Richard, get to the magnolia quick!  She's on her way!  I remember!  Find Rufus, Cody, Duke, Sandy and Babe.  Y'all wait for me there.  Don't let them chase too many squirrels.  I love you.  Take care of her, and get ready because Pippin won't be far behind."

I miss you, Shannon  6/12/2012

***Update-Josie changed her mind.  She isn't ready yet.  She is eating 3 meals a day, barking if she isn't fed when she wants something, and walking around.  Uncle Richard, get back to stompin' and entertaining!  Looks like she will be with us for a little while longer.  6-22-2012