I hear in the distance the sounds of fireworks calling in the new year
Folks move down the sidewalk in glitter and paint.
And I sit here writing this listening closely to the breathing of 3 dogs
One will be leaving here soon
Her paw gnarled with cancer
Moving into her lungs
She has been a fierce and loyal friend
Her eyes always meeting mine with kindness and deep brown
Her big body lifts and falls with each breath
When it comes down to this I wish I could keep this 12 midnight
To stop time
So she, I could sit here forever
I have been here before with my canine family
They not living as long as I
One day in the future she will be a warm and delightful memory
But now she rests feeble in her beloved skin
Retched with disease
I will truly miss you dear girl.
My heart is heavy as this old year passes
As you pass from each morning
Your head popping up when you hear the clang of your bowl against my hand
I love you dear one, you have been the best friend always and forever…

I feel lonely already