Some of you know that we've had dogs, all gone now. In recent discussions about dogs, I've come to feel I'm capable of looking at these pictures again without overwhelming sadness.
This is our middle dog, Simon (picture taken days before he died). We called him Simon because he was so smart, you could practically play the childhood game of "Simon Says" with him. He trained himself at lightning speed, something I adore about the herding breeds. They mentally connect with you so that brain waves are continuously flowing between you at all times.
He was also an awesome family dog. He loved being outside, going along for rides, and walking on the leash, although leashes were plumb not necessary for him. All of my dogs were that way; very connected.
Simon was a Shetland Sheepdog who grew too big for the showring, among other things. He was an excellent example of what's wrong with breeding for show these days, and not for purpose and use. He had a collie-like temperment and amazed everyone who knew him at his "unSheltie-likeness"...no snippyness or barkiness or cowering. He was a normal, happy, loving dog who fit in with all things in our lifestyle. He drew grand attention where ever we took him, and was an excellent ambassador of the breed. We lost him just before Easter in 2009, with many, many tears. He had a large bowl of ice cream, and tootie fruities just before he left home...two of his top favorites. On that day, our journey together came to an end, but his memory will be vivid in my mind for years to come. We miss him. A lot.
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