Once upon a time, in a land far away while I was still the Director of the Tracker school, life was bustling with the cacophony of daily demands, and yet, amidst all the chaos, a silent but persistent whisper nudged at the corners of my mind—it was time for a dog!
This wasn't just any old moment for a canine companion to saunter into my life. I was gifted with a six-month-old daughter at home. But who am I to argue with fate? Besides, I had this notion that every child needs a trusty hound as they navigate growing up.
And so, the search began for the perfect four-legged friend. My heart was set on a cattle dog of sorts—Not too big, not too small, brimming with energy, and smarter than many humans I know.
The early years with our newfound companion, whom we affectionately named Cora, were nothing short of a whirlwind. Picture this: a serene barbecue, the aroma of grilled meat wafting through the air, and then suddenly, like a bolt of lightning, Kora makes her grand entrance. With a leap and a bound, she becomes the master of the picnic table, snatching up burgers and hotdogs with the finesse of a seasoned thief.
But our adventures didn't end there, oh no! When the time came for us to bid farewell to the Tracker school and journey to Cincinnati, we encountered yet another twist in our tale. It turns out that Kora possessed a talent for defying gravity—yes, you heard me right—she could leap over a six-foot-tall fence with the grace of a circus acrobat.
Thus, my landlord and brother from another mother, Todd, began the great Fence Escapade. We added 2 feet of Lattice to keep her in. Todd’s dog Rocco was the best dog friend Kora ever had. They had many a good time together. No matter where we went or who we met, they all loved her because she was a once-in-a-lifetime dog.
As I reflect upon those whimsical years with Kora by my side, I can't help but smile at the memories we created together. Ultimately, it wasn't just a dog I gained, but a loyal friend who loved me through all the changes and metamorphosis and whose spirit continues to brighten our days, no matter where our adventures may lead us next. I expect your Last breath any time now. You can chase sticks through the stars with Rocco and her other dog friend, Henry! You helped me through the most challenging time, which I am still half-mired in but steadily making my way out of. If it weren’t for you and your need to walk in the wilds daily, I wouldn’t have captured nearly the number of photos I have! I love you, Kora. I hurt to the very core of my soul. Return to the source my friend.