I had the most beautiful Great Dane – her name was Storm. All black with a single patch of white to her chest, and speckled drops upon her toes.

She was the matriarch of this family (even on those days when I would stubbornly insist otherwise).

Oh, and she certainly watched over my little ones. Whether a scraped knee, upset tummy, or a lofty ‘bonk’ to the head – there she was, graciously caring, as only a true “Mama Bear” could.

And, when Nudnick arrived a sweet, scared little pup – she literally curled her ‘arms’ around him to help keep him warm.

Oh, and she was right there to see me through even the darkest of my times. Through heartbreak, and many surgeries – why?

Well, good dogs never ask why.

And, then one day – sadly, she suffered a massive brain hemorrhage. As I rushed her to the animal hospital, I could think of only one thing: “Please God, please not now..”

My daughter and I sat next to her on the floor in the waiting area. We wanted so very much to comfort her, but…our hearts were nearly overcome with grief.

At first, she turned to my daughter – placing heavy paw upon her lap. And then, she turned to look my way – and, offer the same to me.

Even in her last few moments, she gave her heart to me.

I couldn’t help but to think of dear, Nudnick — who, for years, had been Storm’s little shadow.

I thought, perhaps, toys and treats might help to ease his pain. But, with each treat – Nudnick would quickly scurry away; racing back to get a little more.

When I walked into the kitchen – I couldn’t believe what I found. You see, as much as dear Nudnick loved his treats – he wanted to share them with someone he loved so much more.

The photo is of Storm’s doggie bowl and *all* of Nudnick’s favorite treats.

A testimony to unconditional love.