When we found you, it was a cold day in January 95. Although the ground was covered with ice and snow, we still decided to make the drive.
I originally had reservations and Terre Haute to Anderson was a long, long way, but I went and when we arrived your siblings were happy with adoptive prospects and they were ready to play. They chewed on our shoes, and nipped at our pants, their hearts were filled with glee, but you sat alone by yourself and when we walked towards you, you tried to run behind the couch and flee.
Then poppy grabbed you and placed you in my arms and said what about this one? The minute that I took you in my arms, any reservations I had were gone. We took you home and you became our Bouncing Bailey girl. From that moment on, you've been there for us, our constant friend, companion and confidant.
You were originally shy, and used to hide when people came, then you came out or your shell. And yes, like all of us you had your moments, setting off the security system, chasing tractors, and deer hunting which put mommy and poppy through hell.
I let you do things that I swore would never be, like sleeping in our bed, sitting on our furniture and sharing our popcorn while watching T.V.
Youve been with us through multiple life changes, many good times and some bad, you never judged us, you didnt care you were always thankful for the wonderful parents you had.
When we were sick, you were there to comfort and console, you'd snuggle close to our belly, and when we were down and blue somehow you'd always know.
Youve taught us lessons about love and patience, and touched the hearts of many you see; you were not just a pet, you were much more than that, you were family.
Over 12 years has passed, since that special cold January 95 day, but each minute that weve spent together you've became even more special to us in every way.
Well cherish every memory weve shared and they'll always be in our hearts from dropping a tennis ball on poppy's chest at 2:00 am until the time you had to depart.
The time that weve spent together has been magical, more that you may ever know, but as we looked into your big brown eyes, we knew you were ready to go, Although it is hard for us, we know its time to part, we will meet you at the rainbow bridge someday and always remember that mommy and poppy loved you with all their heart.
We sat beside your bed, Our hearts were crushed and sore; We did our best to the end, 'Til we could do no more. In tears we watched you sinking, We watched you fade away; And though our hearts were breaking, We knew you could not stay.
You left behind some aching hearts, That loved you most sincere; We never will
forget you our beloved Bailey, best friend and companion so dear.