Happy 14th Birthday (Observed) Bullet!

Happy Birthday to my favorite April Fool!  Of course, today almost certainly isn't your actual birthday.  I don't know when you were born, but the shelter estimated that it was probably in the beginning of April 1996, so April 1 seems as good a day as any to celebrate.

Unfortunately I missed the first seven months of your life.  I so wish I could have seen you when you were a little puppy.  I imagine your ears were a bit floppy and your paws were too big for your skinny legs.  And you were probably pretty wiggly and likely quite speedy, which may be how you became known as "Bullet." 

But if given the choice between knowing you as a puppy and watching you grow into the wise, distinguished old man you've become, I would always take the latter.  Even though you were the one who was in a shelter, I like to think that we rescued each other.  You have become my best friend, my confidante, my protector.  Now, as your glossy black fur gets grayer and your steps slower, I'm reminded of how precious our time is together.  And I'm so grateful that I have you in my life.  

Happy Birthday Mr. Bullet!  I cherish you.