From Scott Vanatter with permission; Photo Copyright Indira
Today, Ella left me.
Me and Ella met when we were six months old, and it was love at first sight. We were inseparable, running wild on the farm, poking our curious noses in rabbit holes, wading in the creek, and devouring treats stolen from Mama’s kitchen in the shade of the gnarliest tree in the back forty. For eighteen years, Ella’s been my staunchest ally, fiercest protector, and most trusted confidante.
“I’ll always love you, Ella,” I weep as my father and I pile rocks on top of a dog-sized grave under the gnarliest tree in the back forty.
Things I See and Know 
Ruby I. Young
April 5, 2013 at 8:26 PM
Hi, a really sweet anecdote. Thank you. Best regards to you, Ruby.
Folio and Ink
April 5, 2013 at 8:28 PM
Okay, I’m crying.
dreaminofobx
April 7, 2013 at 6:20 PM
I hate to make people cry, but I’m glad the story touched you enough to stir emotions. (So I guess I’m actually glad you’re crying, which feels so wrong.) Does that make sense? 🙂
Sandra
April 6, 2013 at 6:59 AM
Very sweet and sad.
elappleby
April 6, 2013 at 8:32 AM
Poor Ella! Nicely written.
Rochelle Wisoff-Fields
April 6, 2013 at 11:44 AM
Dear Michelle,
This one put a lump in my throat. I had a dog for 18 years, too. Nicely written. I love the voice of the narrator.
Shalom,
Rochelle
dreaminofobx
April 7, 2013 at 6:18 PM
I’ve lost two cats to cancer within just a couple years of adopting them from the SPCA. That was hard enough…I can’t imagine the heartbreak of losing a pet who’s been a member of the family for nearly two decades.
jwdwrites
April 6, 2013 at 6:21 PM
Wow, there are gonna be a lot o’ bones under that thar tree. Just make sure you don’t dig up the Colonel when you layin’ Ella to rest. 🙂
dreaminofobx
April 7, 2013 at 6:16 PM
It’s a big tree…lots of room for neighbors. 🙂
J Lenni Dorner (@JLenniDorner)
April 7, 2013 at 6:53 AM
Stopping by from the #atozchallenge !
@JLenniDorner
So sad!
billgncs
April 7, 2013 at 9:24 PM
dogs never live long enough, always break our hearts.
lingeringvisions
April 8, 2013 at 4:49 PM
Awwww..RIP Ella