Good Dog Jack
My artwork is dedicated to Jack, my sweet Westie who went to Rainbow Bridge on June 17, 2011. Although he appeared in many of my paintings, most of you never had the pleasure of meeting Jack. I'd like to tell you a little bit about him.
Jack came into our lives when he was 10 weeks old. He was a fluffy ball of white fur who changed us forever.
He was always a happy boy, friendly to everyone, and forever ready to play catch or go for a walk. His best buddy growing up was "Bear" a big white Siberian Husky who he walked with every night. Mutt and Jeff, they were the sole members of the "White Dog Club" and greeted everyone they met. People didn't always know our names, but they knew who Jack and Bear were!
Jack was the only Westie we ever had who would stare down at the floor, anticipating a treat. He was very well mannered and never looked up at us, or begged for a scrap. He would stand near the table, focus his eyes on the floor, and patiently wait for something good to appear.... and magically something good would always end up right where he was staring so intently. He did a real good job of training us.
When Riley appeared on the scene Jack was already 8 and pretty settled in his ways. He was not expecting a tiny puppy, but Riley burst into his life like a ball of fire. Jack, in his good natured way, became his big brother, and his best pal. He even let Riley be the boss.... most of the time!
Whenever I was working in my studio Jack was my constant companion. He never left my side, keeping me company and serenading me with his snores.
The other night my friend told me that people are very lucky if they have one dog in their lives who is so special, so amazing, that their lives are changed forever. We were very lucky. Jack was that dog.
Good Dog Jack
We Have A Secret
We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.
"Jack" - June 6, 2000 ------ June 17, 2011