We got a call from the vet this afternoon.  We were told that Versace’s ashes were ready for pickup.

I already knew it would be no other day but today.  It has been a very long wait.

We ritually cleaned the house, washed all his bed covers, futons and fluffs, mowed the lawn, blow-vacuumed and washed the outdoor tiles, which is what we had always done to prepare for his return after staying overnight at the vet.  We then created a space for him in front of the window in the lounge where he used to lie down and absorb the sun.

By the time we arrived at the vet hospital at around 6:00pm, the regular staff members had already left.  This was a shame, actually, since we would have liked to thank them for their assistance and care over the years, not to mention the lovely flowers they sent.  Never mind.  There will be another opportunity.

Versace was in a wooden box with a brass name plate.  Very nicely finished, so both of us were happy.  It was compact, but heavy.  Compared to the last time I picked him up and carried him into the vet, it was certainly lighter, but it was a different kind of heaviness; it was not the heaviness of the Dobermann that I was accustomed to, it was the weight of his life.

We carefully drove back home, with Versace on Ms. S’s lap.  Our journey back home only took several minutes, so I wish in some ways the last drive with him took a little bit longer.

When we finally got back home and placed him on the reserved “VIP” spot, I felt a great sense of relief.  Mission accomplished.  We made it.  It was a significant milestone.

We no longer need to worry about anything.  We are no longer apart, he is with us now, feeling safe, secure and at peace.  He is back to where he belonged.

He will be in our hearts forever.

Welcome home, Versace!  We’re so glad to have you back. But we will also forever miss you…

Mr. T