Seven years ago, while trying to get a puppy, I went to the breeders house. She bred Shetland Sheepdogs, but the litter I was hoping for hadn't come through. But the breeder had a 3 year-old that was slated to be a show dog, but came in slightly too tall at the shoulders and was available as a pet. This dog had gone through a bad experience with a son of one of the trainers during his travels and was very stand-offish. Even though my family wasn't enthralled with Connor, there was something about this guy that drew me to him. Against all suggestions, I brought Connor home. For seven years I gave him all the love I could offer and he returned it ten-fold. Last night, out-of-the-blue, Connor became ill. I took him to the emergency vet and 90 minutes later he was gone. I shall grieve a long time for Connor, though I know he'd never want me sad. But I shall be selfish and grieve for all the love he gave that I will now miss. I will think of him often, and though sad, I will cherish the happiness he brought me.