Harmony

Dear Harmony, These past 15 years with you have been filled with unconditional love, cuddles, gratitude, and laughter. My Mom and I met you when you were only four weeks old but had to wait until you were eight weeks to bring you home with us. You were a little ball of energy and mischief. You climbed up my Mom’s curtains, gnawed on the blinds, and galloped instead of running. We swore you were a soccer player reincarnated — batting your toys around with your hind legs or gliding effortlessly across the floor without ever losing control of them. Tape and plastic bags were your absolute favorite toys. It didn’t matter what cool toys we bought for you, you’d always shove your way into a bag or dig lint roll papers out of the trash to chew on. We eventually had to start using covered trash cans because you’d knock them over just to get to your beloved “treasures.” No matter what kind of day I was having, whether I came home elated, frustrated, or completely defeated, you were always there. Sometimes you’d already be at the front door, and sometimes you’d come running when you heard my voice. Either way, you always greeted me with a warm welcome. Snuggling with you was the best. At nighttime you would beg to come under the covers with me just to curl up between my legs. My Mom and I never knew how you could breathe comfortably under there but you did it anyways, for hours. If I was downstairs you would nestle next to me or rest your head against my body. Some part of you always had to be touching me and I didn’t mind because that’s how you showed your love. You disliked being held, especially when it wasn’t on your terms. You were sassy but sweet and I loved that about you. I love how you’d lay or sit in between my Mom and I on the couch and watch tv with us. I love how you’d stretch out in the backyard or in the birdbath to sunbathe. You were always vocal and expressive. I’ll never forget how you looked at me when I sang to you, with your big beautiful yellowish green eyes filled with much love and affection. I will miss waking up and seeing you by my side or sleeping comfortably by the window, your gentle taps when you wanted affection, and your comfort and warmth during difficult times. I named you Harmony because of my love for music and because I knew, somehow, we’d be a perfect pair. And we were. Thank you for always being a constant in my life and thank you for being my best friend. I couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful and loyal companion. Love forever and always, Mommy