My oldest daughter was in great pain

[Omaha Steve]

I was seperated from my first born right after her birth by a closed adoption. Several years ago birthmother, birthfather, and daughter were reunited a week before Christmas. It has been a wonderful experience for all the family members involved.

Last year my family tree grew with another grandchild. Each of my children have one of their own now. You may remember my post about Charlee Rayn: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10023190997

That trip to Bobbi's adoption home closed a broken circle. One of the many memories was watching her older dog Skipper. His back legs were stiff, so he didn't really walk. His back legs kind of bounced. But the smile on his face as I watched him in the back yard told so much to this old animal lover.

Then came last month.



March 17, 2014: My heart is breaking today as I prepare to say goodbye to this beautiful little soul. The past 16 1/2 years I have spent with him have changed my life in so many ways. He was my first dog as an adult. The only dog that has truly been MINE. He has helped me through some of my darkest times. His unconditional love has changed me. We love you Skipper and you'll never be forgotten.

April 23, 2014: Meet the newest member of our family...Bear. He's a young schipperke who's beloved human recently passed. As you know we recently had to say goodbye to our Skip. Match made in heaven?? We think so!!! He'll be moving in on Friday



17 hours ago: Bear is headed home



I see see that same loving smile on Bear's face as he goes to his new forever home. Bobbi is continuing a tradition of a loving adoption.

OS

[shenmue]

1. Yay :)

So glad there is good news.

[Laffy Kat]

2. Sorry for your lost. Congrats on your new addition.

Schiperkees are my favorite. They are brave and devoted and have such intelligent little faces. I read about one who took on a bear to save his family.

[Sunlei]

3. Beautiful schipperke pictures! A rare breed, I've known a few & their families adore this breed.

So sorry about the loss of the 16+ senior "Skipper", it is always hard to say good-bye.

To me the saddest part of letting go of an elder pet is that, even though of the same breed, their personalities are so unique, just like people.

I think it's really cool you see the same "loving smile" on young Bears face. Life with their loving family is a fun adventure for dogs!

[mopinko]

8. my grandma had one

i grew up hear stories about him. mugsy.

great news for your girl.

[Sunlei]

9. "Mugsy", my Dads dog when he was a kid, was named "Mugsy"!

I also, grew-up to hear many wonderful stories, all about 'Mugsy' adventures.

I have not heard about another beloved, family dog, named 'Mugsy', in many years.

[merrily]

4. Beautiful, Omaha Steve. Thank you and best wishes.

[TBF]

5. Such a beautiful story Steve -

I can see Bobbi inherited your sensitive nature.

[nadinbrzezinski]

6. Kick and rec

[Iwillnevergiveup]

7. Beautiful dogs

Beautiful stories. Thank you for posting.

[flvegan]

10. Great story.

[OhioChick]

11. Wonderful story, Steve

Thanks for posting.

K&R

[Liberal_in_LA]

12. k&r

[niyad]

13. I am so sorry for the loss of that beautiful skipper, but know that bear will bring much love and

joy. what a gorgeous little being.

[hfojvt]

14. the dog appears to be strapped in

instead of sticking his head out the window.

[Omaha Steve]

15. A doggie approved seat belt

But I know what you are saying.

[Omaha Steve]

16. I talked to Bobbi after she read this

It never dawned on me in the years since she established contact to tell her my mom had an adopted sister. I realized it when I talked about Bobbi continuing the adoption tradition with Bear.

Aunt Lori was always treated like family. There was no meaning for the word adopted. Her parents feel exactly the same way about her. I can't thank them enough for everything they have ever done for Bobbi.

OS

[ChisolmTrailDem]

17. He looks like he is quite satisfied with his new human, and proud of himself for making

such a fine choice.

[Omaha Steve]

18. We will have some visitors stopping by

Bobbi put this on her Facebook page.