It was 16 years ago that we welcomed Cao Cao into our happy home, and he instantly opened our hearts and filled them with joy. He was shy and pensive until you earned his trust, and once you did - he endeared himself to you and would seek to be by your side as a constant companion.

He formed a special connection with all of us and we fought for his attention - taking him everywhere and making sure that he was cared for. Cao Cao returned this affection with all of his love. The mere thought of him was enough to lift your spirit and bring you a smile. He enjoyed playing, being the center of attention and getting treats. His family fought over who was his favorite.

Smart enough to walk without a leash, we’d often let him roam free - the neighbors all wanted to be friends with him and he never forgot his dog pals even after they moved away, tugging at you whenever he passed by their house. He was especially fond of Sung Hi and her dog Rocky who made him dehydrated chicken - his favorite.

Cao Cao often begged his Dad to take him on extended walks and run with him in the grass, he loved the sunlight and had lots of energy when he was young - he would wander around and got lost a few times - giving his parents great concern!

When his brother Ryan came into the world they formed a rivalry. Later they became best friends. Cao Cao taught Ryan responsibility and how to take care of others. His parents loved to see their playful interaction. Ryan liked "hunting" Cao Cao, playing their version of hide and seek. He took good care of Cao Cao, and in turn Cao Cao provided emotional support to him when he faced difficulties. 

Cao Cao enjoyed good health for many years thanks to his daily walking routine and good food. As he aged he spent more time at his favorite spots in the house - usually leaving many presents for his parents and sometimes Ryan to clean up.

Sometimes he was afraid and cautious of his Dad because of haircuts, eye cleaning, playful teasing or discipline - however their bond was inseparable. They loved taking naps together, snuggling and playing. His Dad sang for him and he reluctantly danced. Cao Cao would cozy up to his Dad while he meditated, avoided being stepped on when his Dad did Tai Chi and licked him to brighten his mood when he looked depressed. He always greeted his Dad with enthusiasm and wagged his tail furiously to greet him after a long day at work, and was almost always rewarded with a piece of freshly cooked meat.  His Dad was happiest when Ryan and Cao Cao slept with him side by side. In his last months, his Dad would tell him how much he loved him and softly begged him to try to remain healthy and stay with us. 

Cao Cao loved and preferred the company of his Mom, he craved her motherly nurturing and sought to be with her whenever possible, often making Dad jealous. He was attached to her as soon as they met and made sure she chose him to come home with us. Many of his hours were spent hanging out with her while she worked or sleeping next to her by the couch.  He loved being petted by her, hearing her voice and receiving her affection.  

Whenever Cao Cao heard that he was going to Grandma’s house his eyes lit up and he barked with excitement to go see her. He loved the extra treats she gave him, cuddling with her and hanging out in her office.  Grandma also gave Cao Cao the affection that he needed, and he liked being with her the most.  She made sure he had extra turkey on Thanksgiving and prime rib during Christmas. He made her laugh with his personality and responsiveness when she trained him to bring his plate for treats.  She lavished gifts on him and he was never without a chew toy or outfit.

He loved playing with Grandpa, working with him outside and keeping him company throughout the day. Grandpa kept him comfortable with haircuts with frequent walks and car trips together. Grandpa loved Cao Cao, often asking if he could stay an extra night with him so they could spend extra time together.  Cao Cao always wanted to sit with Grandpa and he found his place beside him in the easy chair, they shared a special bond.

In his early years, Cao Cao enjoyed the all day wrestling camps at Auntie Susie’s house with cousin Okie.  Okie and Cao Cao had a friendly rivalry, they tried to outsmart each other at family events to get extra treats.  When Uncle Matt, Auntie Susie and Okie showed up at Grandma's, Cao Cao barked with joy.  Charlotte also was delighted and shouted “Cao Cao!!” with a big smile when he visited her at Grandma's.

Cao Cao spent many nights in Maryland with Poa Poa, Yee Ma and Lai Yee and his cousins. He kept Poa Poa company during the day watching TV with her and interacting with her. Poa Poa cooked special meals for him and gave him affection. She was always the first one he greeted when Poa Poa came to visit. They kept each other company during the day and neither of them felt lonely. 

His cousins loved him so much they begged their parents to have a dog like him. Isaac, Ivan, Gordon and Ryan would zoom around the house and he was ecstatic playing with them.  Isaac and Cao Cao would often run around together until they were sick.  

In his last year Yee Ma took especially good care of him.  She trimmed his eyebrows, kept him clean, warmed his food and made tasty dishes for him.  Her affection and nurturing made him very happy and comforted his ailments.  



***



Walking around the house doesn't feel the same without him there, his footprints are still on the floor and bite marks are on the doors as a reminder of him - he will always have a place in our memory and a share piece of our soul.  While I am sad to lose him, I'm happy he is in a better place.   

I can’t write enough good things about my dog, my first dog, I loved him so much. He touched all of our hearts. I want to thank God, the Heavens and the Universe for giving me him for 16 wonderful years. I hope he’s there when I cross over to see him. I miss him.



***



You are Cao Cao and you are my dog… rest well my son.