Happy dog in the truck bed

Moose's other favorite word is "load-up." It is his cue to get a running start and jump into the back of our big black pickup truck. It means it's time for a road trip and time to feel the wind in his golden hair.

Since Moose has been sick, "load-up" has been more of a swear word. At the peak of his illness, he wasn't been able to jump in the bed of the truck. When it was said, he hunched down and didn't move. The only way we could go anywhere was to was to lift his 80 pounds into the truck.

Luckily, since Moose has been on the treatment plan, he has been able to jump. Sometimes he misses and sometimes he needs help, but everytime he goes some place, he smiles. He is back to enjoying traveling, the wind, and one of his favorite words.

Today, we took him into town to get ice cream. One of the best sights is seeing his wind blown smiling face in the rear view mirror.

It is a sight I cherish and a sight I will miss.