Life lessons from the dog I’ll never forget.
When I first brought Lincoln home, he didn’t actually come home right away. My fiancé and I were visiting my mom at the time, so that’s where his first big adventure began — and it’s also where he met Madison.
Madison, my Cairn Terrier, was only two then. She was a little ball of energy and attitude, always ready to play. So when Lincoln trotted into the room — all tiny paws and curiosity — she was thrilled. I don’t think she realized he’d be sticking around permanently. But Lincoln? Oh, he was instantly smitten.
Fast forward a few days, and it became clear that Madison wasn’t the jealous type. She didn’t care about sharing her toys or losing attention. What she did mind was this little guy constantly wanting her time. She was independent. He was clingy. It was the beginning of a beautiful, slightly one-sided friendship.
But then something changed. Madison had this big stuffed horse — about her size when she was a puppy. She never really played with it, but one day Lincoln picked it up by the neck and claimed it as his own. It was hilarious because the toy was basically the same size as him. He’d try to run with it, trip over it, wrestle it — but he never let it go.
As the years passed, that horse stayed his favorite. Fifteen years later, it was still by his side. He never tore it up, though it did get a few holes and some missing stuffing. And even though I’m no expert with a needle and thread, I broke out a sewing kit more than once to patch it back together.
I still have that toy. It’s a little worn, a little lopsided — kind of like love after it’s been through a lifetime. When I look at it, I see everything Lincoln was: loyal, determined, and full of heart.
Oh, and for the record — Madison eventually came around. She learned to love Lincoln too. They became the best of friends.
Life lessons from the dog I’ll never forget.
The Paw Print Path 