Gertrude “Gertie” Skosnik
June 10, 2007 – October 11, 2021
RIP Puppy. You were soo loved, and gave it back 10-fold…
- I was born in Columbus, Indiana, June 10th, 2007. I was the last pick of my litter. Don’t know why. I was the runt. Maybe I was too small for a bulldog??
- I met my Guardian on August 21, 2007. It was love at first sight. I think that was his birthday too?
- My first few years were filled with lots of discipline, but lots of love and fun! Cats (Leroy), Uncles (Joey), Grandparents (Momma and Pappa Squirrel), Aunts (Lauren), and cousins (Gracie and Izzy)
- After that, my life got crazy, but even more fun! Been on several boats, two lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, the Marriott (both in downtown Indianapolis and NYC), and set paws on 18 different states!
- I’ve tailgated at three different University football games. One of my favorite things. 🙂
- My first cat friend (Leroy) had to move away. I was sad, but my Guardian brought home a new kitten. His name is Charlie Tuna. I love him even more…
- In the middle years, we got into a routine. Not exciting, but content. Seasons would change. Long road trips to see the squirrels (I finally figured out that “the squirrels” were my Guardian’s family). These trips always seemed to happen around what the humans call Christmas. I don’t know what that is, but I like it. Lots of food and wrapping paper to play with…
- Then something happened. My Guardian says the word COVID a lot. Our trips to see the see the squirrels suddenly stopped. I was sad but…
- All of a sudden, my Guardian was home ALL THE TIME. This was the best time of my life! We were constantly together, even when he was “working.” I still don’t know what that word means…
- But then, age and time started to catch up with me. I was tired all the time, having trouble walking, and just feeling Blue.
- My Guardian took me to all of his human friends to try and fix me and make me feel better. It worked for a long while, but eventually it was too much. I was in pain…
- My Guardian arranged things, and I fell into a blissful sleep on my favorite bed in the house. Charlie even came by for a final sniff/kiss. Cats remain a mystery to me, but I love them!
- That was October 11th, 2021. I was told I lived almost twice as long as the average bulldog. Don’t know why. I guess it’s a combination of love from my Guardian, his friends and family, and a little luck…
- For the record, I am Gertrude (Gertie) Skosnik. My Guardian is Patrick. We share the same last name.
- I am still here, just in another form.
- I notice that my Guardian, Charlie, and the squirrels are sad. Do they not realize I am waiting for them all, and will see them again on the other side of the rainbow bridge?
- Last thing: I don’t understand all the mysteries of this life. After all, I’m just a bulldog. But, I think we’re all on this Earth to learn at least one important lesson.
- And what did I learn? Family is family. Human, dog, cat, squirrel, and every combination in between…
- Until we meet again…
