Mending my heart after the loss of Buddy has been no easy task. While time gently heals and helps ease the sorrow, my brain learns slowly where the heart connects. I still step around the spots where Buddy used stake claim, inevitably in front of the sink or the stove (anywhere a heavy stockpot would need to be moved). I still see him under the old maple tree surveying his kingdom like a proud lion on the savanna, barking for me to come up from the orchard when his inner dinner bell deemed necessary. Yep, I miss the old fur-ball, but the good news is I’ll never forget him. And the equally wonderful news is I’ve welcomed a new bulldog into my life and I could not be happier. And from all accounts, he feels the same way.
Hop on the Bus, Gus!
Let me introduce you to Gus, a rescue bulldog from Bulldog Haven Northwest. The handsome fellow is 7 years old, and about the chillest boy on the block. He’s a thinker, pondering if the treat is really worth getting up for. He’s a gentleman, getting along with everyone (unless one lacks manners and takes his toy). He attentively waits to be introduced and then backs in for the butt rub. Yep he’s a keeper, an old-soul who soaks up the company and well-wishes of friends and strangers alike.
I would like to thank everyone for all the loving and big-hearted comments you shared after Buddy died. Your kindness meant the world to me. And now as I write this in the early hours of Northwest rainstorm, I hear Gus dismount from my old bed frame upstairs, shaking the floor/ceiling above me. (The charm of an old house.) Soon he’ll trundle down the stairs and gaze at me with a look of consternation. “How could you have left me upstairs?” I feel those looks will disappear in the days to come, when Gus enjoys my down comforter in an unheated upstairs. I’ll probably see him around noon in winter.
Awwww. Gus is adorable, and clearly a character. Lucky you, and lucky Gus. Glad to hear you found each other.
I am so so happy for you !
Gus looks like a real sweetheart.
Wishing you all the best,
(From a fello bulldog lover, here in B.C. that has missed your posts)
How wonderful! So happy you have found another companion….i wonder who is the luckier guy….you or him?
Welcome, Gus!
Wishing you much love and many adventures to come. ❤️🐾
So sad to hear about Buddy, and happy to hear you have Gus in your life. Best wishes Tom, hope all is going well for you.
You two are going to be inseparable. Congrats on your new best friend, Gus!!
Tom I am so happy for you and Gus. I know Buddy will always have a soft spot in your heart. Gus you are a handsome boy. Enjoy your new life with Tom. He is a great guy.
I’m really saddened to hear Buddy passed on. It’s SO hard to lose a dear pet.
But Gus sounds like a great little companion. I’m sure he’s very happy
to live with you on your farm.
Hugs to both of you.
Gus is the luckiest big guy in the whole world. He got you to be his person. Enjoy your lives together! I’ll see you around town.
Love you Tom.
Barb
Nuthin’ better than a kid and his dog…Congratulations to you both! Double big win!
Welcome to Vashon, Gus, you’ve rescued the man with the biggest heart on Vashon! And we love you already.
I am so happy to see you back in the blog-o-sphere! I have so very much missed your lovely postings and I am especially glad you have shared your great news of GUS joining your family!!! Here’s to many more posts of Gusdome (and Tom adventures)!
That’s wonderful, Tom. Welcome, Gus! You have landed in clover, literally, and figuratively. To crib from a favourite film, “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
It’s so hard to lose our animal pals, they give us such devoted, unconditional love. Bringing a new wet nose or whiskers into your home is a wonderful way to honor the friend you lost, and start a new relationship of love and companionship. A salute to Buddy and all he was, and a welcome to Gus and all he’ll bring into your life.