Back in July 2005, Margie, Jessica & I visited Mack down in Florida. We were fortunate enough to meet what was then his trio, Ivan, Hannah and Willy. I know that we get to know each other's puppers through writings and pictures, but when you get to meet them in person, it's definitely a wonderful experience.
I had just lost Rudy in June of that year. Besides seeing Ivan, who was a contemporary of Max, both being born in 1989, we also saw Hannah and Willy. As painful as Rudy's loss was, being around other dachshunds, was definitely helpful for me. This visit went a long way for helping me find closure with Rudy's passing.
In honor of Ivan, I'd like to post these two pictures from the visit. I think the first one really shows his nature. You can see how gently he is approaching Jessica, with tail wagging, while Hannah is basically ignoring Jessica and seems to be more interested in Ivan's anatomy:
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/21/27473743_88f5a0c5ad.jpg)
In this second picture, Ivan seems to have decided that Margie's foot is far more interesting than Jessica. However, Willy seems to have taken quite a liking to Jessica and is trying to shower affection on her, much to Jessica's disdain. Hannah has decided that the sunbeam is a better place to be.
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/21/27473744_0b5abc3604.jpg)
We'll miss you Ivan. I'm sure that Rudy & Max are making sure that you're being well taken care of at the Bridge.
What great pictures - I don't remember seeing these. Thanks so much for sharing - Ivan was a handsome boy !
Sadly, it sounds like a good group is gathering at the Bridge these days...
Rudy, Max, Ivan, Dolly, Bambam, Ladybug...
Great pictures and reminders. Ivan was a real sweety...
Oh no. What awful news. We are losing so many! It's so sad...I'm so sorry Mack! My little Sam lived to be 17, sometimes when they go for that long you just think they will be here with us forever. Thanks for these great shots of Ivan, David. He was very loved by all of us even if we didn't get to meet him in person.