Why Lack of Updates... 1989 and Archie · 8:18pm Oct 22nd, 2015
When I last posted, I mentioned I would have TBATS's newest chapter up before me and my friend headed off to Arlington for The 1989 World Tour. Well, obviously that didn't happen, and I didn't even go. Things have not been going too well right now.
Those that know me pretty well know that there is little to nothing that can keep me from a Taylor Swift concert. I have been to every single tour before that, my first concert even being her Fearless Tour back in 2009 my 8th grade year. It was magical, and every one after has been better than the last. I had the tickets all geared up for this one, The 1989 World Tour. 11 months of planning, and it was going to be with me and my friend that went with me to go see Ariana Grade. What stopped me from going was something I wish didn't have to happen. The morning before the concert, my mom called to tell me my dog, Archie, my best fuzzy buddy of 10 years, was not doing well. The weekend before that, I visited home, and he was barely walking. He hadn't been eating, he wasn't even barking like we were used to. Somewhere inside of me, I knew he was nearing the end. He was already 13 years old, but I just thought it was another scare. This wasn't the first time we thought he was close to the end, but each time before, he sprung back up and howled away. When I drove home, however, and I got inside, my mom was by the back door that lead to the back porch where Archie had been sleeping... he was already gone. That night, after crying like I hadn't since my grandpa died, I loaded him and the blanket he was sleeping on in a box and drove to have him cremated. It was either that or let the city handle him, and I didn't want that. I spent that weekend at home with my family, remembering him and all the happiness he's brought my family. He was the dog that managed to turn my mom into a dog lover, who guarded over our house, who was there for me during a time when I thought I didn't have any friends. He was more than a pet, he was my best friend. So, I drive back to Austin later that weekend, already having missed the concert, and continue on with life.
Yesterday, I got the call from the crematorium that Archie was ready for me to pick him up. I get into town around 11 at night and I pick up his ashes. Now, he's right beside me as I type this up. I knew he wasn't going to be around forever, but it's really easy to think your dog, or any animal companion will be, and when their time finally comes to an end, it's hard not to break down in that spot where you stand. My advice to anyone with a four-legged friend you hate to imagine yourself without, cherish them while you can. I can at least rest knowing Archie had a good life. Hell, he's one of the few dogs I've ever met that I think actually smiles. At least now, I can have a bit of him here with me in Austin until a goo time from now, I get to see him again.
I'm still writing everything up. Working, being a student, and going through all this has taken a bit of a toll on me, but something should pop up in the next week or so. I think I'll even put up a little sneak peek sometime after I get home from work.
Until then, I need to find a perfect spot for Archie's urn. Happy trails, buddy. You were my best ten years.
Take as much time as you need dude, but know our thoughts are with you.
Stay strong man, take as much time as you need. I know pretty soon I am going to go through the same thing with our family dog. She just turned 12 this month and has had a pretty rough time with all her medical issues.
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Thanks, man. I appreciate it.
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The fact she made it to 12 is impressive. Cherish her while you can, and let her know she's loved, That's my advice for when it's close to the end.