A Tribute to Scout

Well, dear succ-ers, I have some bad news.  My wonderful, beloved succulent mutt, Scout, has moved on to the big succulent garden in the sky.  She was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of liver cancer back in November, and the vets expected her to live only a month or two.  But with the help of chemo, love, generosity, and prayer, she lasted six months.  They were good months, too--up until the day before she died, she was enjoying walks, treats, and laying in the sun.  And up to her very last moments on earth, she loved cuddling with her moms.

It's hard to put into words how much I loved this dog, and what a faithful companion she was through some rough times.  And, of course, she hung out with me while I gardened!  Granted, on her part there was more relaxation than actual gardening, but she helped out by chasing cats, highlighting previously undiscovered patches of afternoon sunshine, and letting me know when it was too cold to stay outside.

I know that some of you, dear readers, also have animal companions who are your buddies in gardening and life.  As a tribute to Scout, I would LOVE it if you'd email me a picture or two of your pet(s) in your yard/garden.  Just email me the photo, along with your pet's name and anything you'd like me to say about him or her in the caption.  Meanwhile, here are a few photos of Scout. 

Me and Scouters at Stanford's Arizona Garden

At the beach

Patrolling the front deck was crucial.

On the back deck

"The sun's pretty good over here, Mom."

"Oh, I was just going to guard these for a while."

"Although I AM pretty comfortable."

"Why do you always wake me up so early?"

These last two pictures might be my favorite, because they remind me of some of the best, nicest, most relaxing times I've had in the past two years or so since I started succulent gardening: Scout hanging out with me on the front deck while I planted, and Scout curled up on my legs or my lap on the back deck. 

I sure miss her. 

Rest in peace, my dear friend.