Waffle. King. Waffo. Dink Dink. I knew your name before you existed. Your mom manifested you before you were born. I always thought you were going to be a stout pittie mix, but you weren’t having any of that. You were who you were and when your mom met you she realized there was no stopping the Waff from being the Waff. A unique one of kind stoic beast bursting with powerful love available for anyone who was willing to accept it. I helped your mom take care of you when you lived in Boston. I would take you on runs to the pond. You were fast and wild. Then one day it was time for you move to the glorious woods of CT. We stayed in touch and it was hard not having you around. I visited you with your mom any chance we could. Then one day early in 2015, I introduced you to my new son, Bamford. You were Bamford’s first friend. You were Bamford’s best friend. Although you were more fuzzy and a little wider, you both seemed to be the exact same height. We could tell this on walks when your little bodies would gently bop into each other. Somehow, your butthole was always on display even though Bam was born without a tail. You proudly displayed this to anyone and everyone like a true gentleman. You were Bam’s elder and showed him how to play, run, and sniff out critters in the woods. You showed him how to live with poise and dignity, even though he didn’t really listen to you. You learned how to share your precious bones and chew toys with him. You showed us around Chatfield Hollow. You, the master chipmunk sniffer outer, and Bam the master squirrel chaser. If you saw something worthy of chasing, you’d happily ignore your electrical fence and just go for it. Bamford would look forward to his visits with you so much. He’d start freaking out as soon as we’d turn onto Stevens Road. When we arrived we’d all see your little face pop up in the kitchen window that you beloved so much. That was your spot. The garage door would open and we’d see your dumb little paws, that prince like-stance with feet pointing at a gentle outwardly angle patiently waiting for Bam to pop out of the car. You guys would play so hard. You and Bam were the ultimate chase buds. You’d fly around the house at ungodly speeds. Bam chasing you at times, then you chasing Bam. We’d all stop what we were doing to witness these grand events. Your moms loved you so much. More than you’ll ever know. Your dad and uncle Cam loved you. Anyone who ever met you loved you. I loved you. So so much. I am forever grateful for the life you gave Bam. You brought him pure joy anytime he was with you. He felt safe with you. He felt safe to play-bite you, wrestle with you, and cuddle with you. One black dog, and one tan dog - you guys were the perfect duo and you are greatly missed. I would give anything to be able to visit you one last time. To watch your ears perk up at the site of Bam. There’s a hole in my heart that will never be filled Waffy. May you rest in peace and just know you will never be forgotten. Save a spot for Bamford wherever you are. I know he’d just love to see you again <3