06/06/2026
There is always that special one. They come along when least expected and become a part of you. If you have ever ever experienced the unconditional love of a dog, you know what I reference. I hope everyone seeing this has had a dog choose you as they’re human. Reach out their paw for you, lay it on your heart, leaving their imprint.
Winston came to the farm around 2015. He had long flowing hair. Definitely looked like a surfer dude. He had limited access to the outside world at his original home. One of our friends, Lisa Grace, brought him to the farm iso he could run free and that he did. When he arrived at our farm he had a mirror buddy instantly. His name was Boomer- same color and markings. They were fast buddies for over 5 years until Boomer passed.
Slowly, over the years, Winston chose me as his human. He was my buddy, my shadow. This one hurt. Badly. My buddy went to the rainbow bridge last week. Helping him on that journey was truly one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. I love that dog. He was kind, gentle, demanding at times, a grumpy old man with a strict schedule as he aged; but he was mine! There were many times I would wake in the middle of the night open my eyes, and Winston‘s head is resting on the side of my bed, watching me sleep. There were times that I would awaken and look down the hallway to see him heading my way to check on me, his nails clicking on the tile. I know he loved me too.
For the past year, I have lived my dream of my dog’s going to work with me every day. We would walk up to the barn, and Winston would usually lay in the barn and watch the events while the other dogs would dig holes, hunt lizards and bark at neighbors walking on the road or chickens in the pasture. Winston would take a nice long nap, get up to check on the others, visit with neighbors- that was until a couple of weeks ago. Winston got sick on a Sunday. He ended up in the emergency room on Tuesday and left us by that Friday. It felt shockingly sudden, even though I know it wasn’t. Winston had been leaving for weeks.
I know I am blessed to have had him in my life. I am so grateful for all those years together, all the dogs he trained.The loss hurts so badly. It sometimes takes my breath. Thank God for friends who understand and have been there through the ugly crying, the reminiscing and celebration of Winston’s life. I know he’s frolicking with all the other critters souls who have passed through the farm. His spirit is still here. RIP Winston Churchill - my buddy.
