Good morning ElderChicks,
Yes, I did have a wonderful dog. She was a Chow mix. Her name was Sugar, she came by her name because of her dark brown, red fur color.
Sugar came into my life after a close friend of mine lost her sister-in-law to cancer. The lady left several young boys for their father to raise. Their family pet had about a dozen six week old puppies.
After some persuading of my friend, I joined her in visiting her brother one day. This little puppy was shy. I knelt down and held out my hand. It took some time before she coming to me. Soon I could tell I had changed my mind and was willing to take her into my home.
Since I had recently found myself alone from a break up in my family, the little puppy was a gift from God. She was first trained to a crate and I had planned on her being a house dog. After about three years of guarding my home and car, while shopping someone new came into our life.
A godly man , decided he needed a new life as well. We became a new family and started on a new adventure. Living an outdoor life, Sugar went with us everywhere. Through the Florida flatlands hiking and camping. Then we starting going on moderate day hikes in the North Carolina mountains.
After fifteen great years, about five years ago our dear pet suddenly became ill. After a visit to a couple of vets and some shots to help with her pain. It was a puzzle to us and our vet when she died a week later.
We have wonderful memories of our wonderful Sugar.
ElderChicks 
Well named for sweetness!
What a charming story! So fortunate that you found a new mate and were able to do all those adventurous things with Sugar along. You gave her a lovely and fun, adventurous life and I know her soul is grateful. Meanwhile, how are you and your partner doing? I’ve been on my own for nearly 20 years–it would be wonderful to find a mate and partner at this stage–I am up for more adventure!
Hi Allison, My husband and I are living life as it comes some good times and some challenges. But we have the same faith, we laugh a lot and we love each other still . So guess we are doing well.
I’m so sorry for your loss of Sugar. I’m happy you have so many happy memories of your adventures.
We have a Pug, she has gone on many camping trips with us, over the last ten years. Dogs are great company and leave a paw print on our hearts!
Thank you Marilynn for taking the time to leave a comment and that you have also enjoyed camping with your Pug. I appreciated the opportunity to share the memory of my dog , Sugar.
Wish we had an “Elderchicks” chapter here in South Daytona, FL
Claudette, We’re all one chapter! And as you see, we’re from all over! ElderChicks is a community because we connect with each other – and we’re so glad you’re with us.