It's Lemmy's First Birthday in Heaven

When Lemmy's mom left his collar and leash set on the stove for me to take home I just couldn't muster up the energy to do so because that would mean that he really wasn't coming home. This was the set that sparked Lemmy into action, that took him for miles and miles past admirers in the neighborhood, to Hannaford (a nearby grocery store) which was his favorite walking path because there is a wonderful grassy field in the front that has interesting sniffing areas where other dogs and wildlife love to roam. He also loved when shoppers walked out of the store every time he stepped on the door mat! Another favorite stroll was to walk by the high school and then through an area where apartments dotted the side roads, and to my car where I once transported him, his brothers, and Daisy to get ice cream in Durham. 

Now this set (that was once Daisy's and then we gave it to Lemmy not minding that it was girly looking) sits in my car unused because, hey, it was his! I'm going to bring it in the house and place it somewhere special to remember him by. 

Is it odd that I was this close to Lemmy? Not at all since I spent just about every month with him ever since we met in July 2014 and often stayed overnight in a room his parents call "April's Room" because I was there more than I was at my own place! 

Another thing that makes me thankful for him is that I became immersed in his life only a few weeks after my dad passed away (June 29) of esophageal cancer and, believe it or not, Lemmy and his brothers were a great comfort to me. I temporarily forgot about my grief by walking with four dogs (my pup included) who provided unconditional love and it was just the "medicine" I needed and for that I am indebted to Lemmy for being a friend. I will never forget him! 

He was diagnosed with a brain tumor on April 5th and had moments of clarity and silliness and seemingly good health (we all thought he'd live for several weeks after the diagnosis) but on the April 15th at around 7pm his mom sent a text to say that he had deteriorated quickly (he lost the use of his hind legs and was in a lot of pain) and was going to take him to the emergency vet. I panicked and cried. I knew it was the end. I'm so glad I spent several hours with him the previous Monday (the above picture was the last one I took of him) but I'm still shocked that he left us so soon. 

Today he would've been celebrating his 9th birthday along with his litter mate and best bud, Iggy, and how we all wish he were here to get spoiled rotten by all who love him! This picture was taken just before we headed to get doggie sundaes (vanilla ice cream with a side of two milk bones) and, as usual, they charmed everyone at the ice cream stand! 

I took this picture five days after Lemmy passed away:(

If you have a moment, please express your condolences here because I'm sure his loved ones (including Iggy and Arty) and HIS FANS (Yes, he had plenty of fans!) would appreciate it. Thank you.