Missing Deacon

A year ago today, Deacon crossed the rainbow bridge.  Essex and Sherman have done an outstanding job of helping me heal; but today a year later, I miss my silly boy.  In many ways Sherman and Deacon are similar yet different. 

Deacon -2011

Physically both are sable and white male collies.  Deacon was a big collie, weighing in at around 84 lbs, Deacon was taller and longer than Sherman.  Sherman weighs about 60 lbs and is just a little taller than Essex.  Deacon was tall enough that he could look out the window, while standing on all fours.  I would frequently see that face looking out the window at me, when I arrived home.  Both were lean collies and not over weight.  Deacon had a half-collar with the white on his right side, his ears stood upright ears and the dark brown around the eyes gave a sad soulful look up close.  Sherman has a full collar, tipped ears and was a cryptorchid.  Deacon had a low solid bark, while Sherman is higher pitched

Deacon, One-Year Old and Bigger than Essex

Sherman is Essex's size

 The two collies have a slightly different personality.  Both extremely outgoing.  Deacon was a more into people than dogs, while Sherman prefers the company of other canines.  Sherman is vocal, barking at the other dogs when he plays, at people when he wants attention.  Deacon was not nearly that vocal.  Both Deacon and Sherman enjoyed standing on the center console of my Ford Explorer during our rides to Angel Paws.  Deacon would nibble and lick my ear when I drove, while Sherman tends to lean on me during the drive. 

Deacon's Tail, High and Curled

Deacon on His Back

Both of them tended to sleep at the side of my bed. Deacon frequently slept on his back, while I don’t remember seeing Sherman doing that.  When we got up in the morning Deacon would tilt his head and give you a quizzical look that seemed to say "Are you ready to go for our walk?" Deacon tended to pull on the leash to smell something or to meet some paw/person. Sherman rarely pulls.  During walks Deacon was excited and his tail was normally raised and curled, it reminded me of a shepherds staff.  Sherman tail is normally low, but does come up some times.  Deacon was more of a Collie Ambassador to those he met on our walks or at the park.  Both loved attention from humans and treats.   Deacon was more mischievous, I can remember him stealing a biscuit out of some persons pocket more than once.  Sherman will sit and bark at you if he wants something. 

Both Essex and Sherman are in the room by me right now.  They can sense my feelings.  Yes, I miss my silly boy.  It has been a year since, he left and thinking about him can result in moist eyes.  Ah, here come Essex and Sherman.  A couple licks to tell me that they love me.  I am lucky to have two good collies like Essex & Sherman.

Deacon's Urn

I found myself talking to Deacon's ashes today.  Telling him how much I missed him.  Wishing his time with me had been longer.  Deke, watch over us and keep your pack safe.

Dog Dad