In life we are graced with Love from many sources. There are family, friends and pets. My family means everything to me, both my immediate and extended family. My friends define me as a person. My pets however, ground me. Love abounds with all the above.
My family includes my wife and daughters along with my mother, brother, two sisters and my wife's entire family. I love them all. I did not leave my father and father-in-law out. Unfortunately they both passed but, not without influencing my life. My father sacrificed so much to make sure that all of his children accomplished whatever they wanted. Truly he is my hero. My father-in-law was an awesome person who made sure his daughters and son moved forward in life. Each of these men were true heroes to the families they left behind. Although my brother, sisters and I weren't very close growing up we are very close now. My wife's family are very close and I enjoy being with them very much. Our being so far away from them is a strain for us all. I have gained a true appreciation of family since my youth. Any of my cousins reading this, let me know that I appreciate all you as well. You guys have seen the very worst of me and some of the good and never judged.
In my life I have been honored to know some very special friends. They have all been there for me when I needed it most. People like Steve, Carl, Billy, Pat, Chris, Harold, Tuna, Leo, Darell, Kipper and Skip came along in my life exactly when I needed them and helped to make who who I am. There is the David's, Pats' and others that helped define me. I ended up where I am with the help and friendship of these people.
Growing up we had many pets. The pet's I identify most with are Pepe a chihuahua, Pfieffer a throwback German Shepherd, Sam a small mutt, Beau an Australian blue tick healer, Phieffer II and Australian shepherd and Fiona a chow chow and golden retriever mix. These dogs were all great companions. Pfieffer I and Fiona are the most memorable dogs for me. My best companions. They both stuck with me during my darkest and saddest moments. Pfieffer used to be with me all the time during long walks to North Gate mall, or play time behind the baseball fields at the YMCA and the mountain trails off Trans Mountain road. Fiona has settled in with my current period of unemployment going to the dog park or just lazing around the house. All the pets have been great in knowing what my moods were and accommodating them.
My thought is this: Family, friends and pets make you who you are. Don't underestimate the power of a pet's companionship in your life.
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