Remember

This is a picture of my beautiful chowchow brother, my Kuya Bear. It has been a year since his spirit/life force has moved on. I miss him everyday.

Last week, we went to the beach, which was one of his favorite places in the whole world. He loved the feel of the ocean breeze on his face. This is the first time since last year that we have gone back. We brought his ashes with us.  Near the ocean’s edge, amid the salt breeze that he loved, our family remembered with love Kuya Bear’s intelligent and strong-willed, but always kind and generous  spirit.

I know that my brother is always with us, but that day, I felt his presence keenly.

Kuya Bear’s spirit was very strong near the water.  Mom put his ashes down on the sand, and the Pacific reached out, but stopped short of touching him. Kuya Bear loved the ocean, but he always liked to keep his paws dry.

Principesa was always a little afraid of the water. She was braver about getting near the waves when Kuya Bear was with her.

Kuya Bear was the heart of our family, and we are forever grateful that he graced our lives. It is because of him that Principesa and I found our family. His legacy will live on in our hearts, and in the other rescues who will become part of our home.

Sssspring isssss here!

We had a lot of rain (for Los Angeles, that is) followed by sunshine, so the trails are much greener. That means that the trails are less dusty, and the weather is warmer, so we can hike longer. Pretty soon, the trail will be ablaze with wildflowers.

Unfortunately, the rain and sun combo meant that tall, soft grass is growing as well. According to my internet research, this also means that the rattlers are out. It’s only March, but we already encountered the first warning of the year:

Whoa! I knew to back away quickly from that clump of grass. Principesa froze beside me for once, instead of pulling off like she usually does.  That sound clearly meant, I’m here and do not bother me! I sure appreciate the warning, Mr. / Ms. Rattler. Don’t worry, I won’t bother you.

Happy Spring, everyone!