Rusty (aka Sir Rustifer)

Dear Rusty, how I wish we could go back to the day we met, when you stepped off that transport truck from Texas. The first thing you did when we got home was jump over the fence and run off to say hello to the neighbors. You didn’t know we belonged to each other yet, but after that you did, and you never tried to jump the fence again. You were only seven months old, and you had already been in a shelter and three foster homes. I saw your face on Facebook, and I have loved you from that moment on. How lucky all of that was, and how lucky we were to spend nearly 14 years together. So many life changes, so much love and laughter. All the walks and trips to the park. All the miles we traveled and the places we lived. It wasn’t nearly enough. You were, and will always be, my son and my sunshine, as well as my very best friend. I know that we will be together again. Until then, remember that I “Adore You,” like that Harry Styles song I always sang to you in the car. “Oh, honey / I'd walk through fire for you / Just let me adore you / Like it's the only thing I'll ever do.” I’m singing it to you still. Love, mom.