Way back in early 1994 or 1995 (I can't remember exactly when), my entire family decided to go on vacation to the Philippines, and I mean EVERYONE decided to go. With me being the only hold out, it was my responsibility to take care of the family dogs at the time, Nike, who lived with us, and Cutie, who lived with my Grandmother and Aunt. So for three weeks, what once was just a two "person" outfit between Nike and me, became three as we had to look after little Cutie as well. Nike was a large, loving, 110 lb., fully trained female Rottweiler, who definitely had an aura of arrogance about her. (This being evident by her nose constantly being raised in the air when around us, and her face quite smug. She was smart, and she knew it. She was, really.) Cutie on the other hand was a pound dog, a small, scruffy, wire-haired terrier mix, who was just as playful as a pup at the time, and just happy to be around Nike and me. She would constantly get on Nike's nerves as her youthful energy would pester Nike's "old lady" routine. Despite their differences, they got along fine.
 
After the three weeks were up, I kinda noticed a bond build between the canine "odd couple", with Cutie giving Nike her daily "I'm gonna pester you" exercise, and Nike giving Cutie the "big sister" company that I feel she desired. So when my Grandmother and Aunt returned, we decided that we were going to keep Cutie with us from now on, giving them the reason that they were now inseparable (Although I'm certain Nike couldn't have cared less either way - again, snobby). From that moment on, Cutie became a part of our household, and a part of our immediate family. (One funny thing about her was that she never barked! Serious! She may have barked maybe 5-6 times max, but that was it. She just didn't need to.)
 
Over the years, she and I became really great friends, and my constant running companion on many training runs in and around our area. Because she was so low to the ground, and lightly built, she could run for hours without complaint, and mostly keeping me honest, as she would usually run ahead of me. I think that dog logged about an easy 3,000 miles over those years. It definitely kept her healthy and strong, and oh-so tired after wards, but each time she would figure out that I was going out for a run, she'd be the first to want to go.
 
She and Nike were there with us at all family events, from Christmases, Thanksgivings, picnics, etc. She met and knew people who are no longer with us. She even visited a few places most dogs don't get to go to like, spending a day at Center Theater Group, or even having her own sleep overs. She was one of the sweetest dogs you could ever meet - cute, just like her name, despite her over grown, messy, black and white hair. She definitely was one of the family through and through.

Today, Monday, April 26, Cutie went "home" to be with Nike, her other best friend. She lived to be 17 years old, and saw a great many things in her life, and for the length of it, she was our friend, our family member, our little Cutie. She led a happy, loved, and cared for life, and I honestly believe that she knew and felt it also. The last few years were a little bit of a struggle for her, but despite her age, and her declining health, once she recognized you, that little puppy tail of hers would wag just a little to let you know that she was happy to see you. I definitely was always happy to see her. A big thank-you goes out to my mom who took care of her these last few years - great job mom. 

I will miss Cutie very much. She was the first dog that I've ever owned that lived so long, and I'm certain I'll never have another dog live to be as old. She was with me in my twenties and thirties, through thick and thin. She was my running partner, Nike's little companion, an old friend, and lifelong member of our family. I will miss petting that sweet little head of hers, and watching that tail wag in delight just because she was around you. The trails we used to run will never be the same without her, but I know in spirit, she's right there with me, pacing me through those long miles. We will definitely miss her, but I know that somewhere, up at Rainbow Bridge, my two dogs are once again united, and having a good old time, waiting for the day when I can once again see them both.

Take care Cutie, and thank you for all the years you gave us. We'll miss you dearly, and think about you fondly every day.

Your friend always,

Michael