For My Daffer-Taff (part 2)

For My Birthday Buddy, Our Little Daffy

It is hard to say good-bye
to one we've held so dear;
and even though it's for the best
we can't help but shed a tear.

A tear for all the countless times
that you snuggled by our sides
'demanding' your share of attention -
belly rubs we could never deny.

A tear for all the eagerness
with which you greeted all the world -
whether special cousins or friends or family,
whether strangers (or chipmunks or squirrels).

A tear for all the quiet times
when you stretched out in the sun,
or rested in front of the fireplace
when the day was finally done.

A tear for all the happiness
when we could 'chat' by phone -
reminding Mom or Lissi at times -
so that we never felt alone.

A tear for all the gentle care
when you kept a watchful eye,
helping Dad to mind the store,
or drive ( or snack on pizza pie)!

A tear for all the warmth you shared
when curled up on our beds -
whether on your special purple blankie
or snuggled up near our heads.

An though we shed these tears today,
we know, in time, they will subside -
for there will come a time, someday,
when we'll cross over, side by side.

~ Kate Kisselstein
October 20, 2006, 7:30 a.m.