(EOW) In a nautical context, it refers to the conclusion of a sailor’s duty shift or, symbolically, the passing of a mariner, traditionally marked by tolling eight bells. It signifies that a sailor has completed their service, often commended with the phrase “Shipmate, you stand relieved. We have the watch.
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard”
-Winnie The Pooh
It is with a heavy heart that I announce that our beloved dog Bella has passed. If you have been a follower of this blog, you have heard about our sweet girl. She has made many appearances in my writing, so I wanted to give her a proper send-off. I will not be writing a tribute. I will instead give you all a challenge she has given me. It’s quite simple. Live your life like a dog.
🐾Wake up in the morning surrounded by someone or something you love.
🐾Get up slowly and take a big stretch.
🐾Have a drink of water and then a treat.
🐾Take a long walk around the neighborhood, and when you pass by someone, be super excited to say hello.
🐾Come home and have a nice breakfast and take a nap.
🐾Go outside several times a day just to walk around your yard to smell the flowers or sit on the front porch and quietly watch life as it moves around you.
🐾Have more water and more treats.🐾
🐾If you get aggravated or excited, go ahead and let out a few barks. It feels good to be heard.
🐾Play with your favorite toys.
🐾Greet those you love with joy when they walk in the room.
🐾Savor your food and look forward to it coming your way every time you see it.
🐾Something goes wrong…don’t worry about it. You know someone will be there to help you clean up the mess if you need it.
🐾Explore everything as you walk through life. Stop and sniff out new things.
🐾Have more water and more treats. 🐾
🐾Sleep when you need it. Eat when you want it. Wag your tail when you are happy. Play alot. Walk a lot. Feel safe to explore. Express emotions.
🐾Protect your family and home.
🐾Give lots of love to those around you.
🐾Have more water and treats. 🐾
🐾Repeat everyday.
Rest easy, sweet girl. It is officially your end-of-watch. 8 bells ring in your honor and the pup you have trained has taken over the wheel. Bravo Zulu, love. Bravo Zulu.
