Valentine’s Day.  A day to celebrate love. AND a day to celebrate one of our cherished, beloved pups, Kismet!

We’re not really sure, but when we adopted Kismet from a rescue in May of 1999, he was “a little over a year old”. We decided to make his birthday fall on Valentine’s Day,

1) Because he was the new love of our lives, and

2) Because we knew we could remember that date.

Kismet came to us following the tragic and needless death of our 2 dogs in March of 1999. While we were on vacation, we had entrusted them to a friend and co-worker of Diddy’s. During his watch, they were left unsupervised outside, consequently hit and killed in traffic. Our hearts were broken, our lives left empty.

A couple of months later, we went to numerous pet adoption events looking for a female Golden Retriever mix puppy. We knew we could never “replace” Sophie and Quiche, and actually felt conflicted about getting another dog so soon. But we looked anyway. One Saturday afternoon, I scoured the cages of homeless pets. Glancing at a scruffy terrier mix, I continued my search. “I think you need to meet this one,” said a large, unkempt woman with knowing eyes.

“He’s cute, but not what I’m looking for, thanks.” I turned to leave.

“What’s his name?” I asked over my shoulder.

“Kismet”, she replied.

I went home and reported that my search would continue. That night, thoughts of the Mutt invaded my sleep. The next morning I looked up the meaning of the word. This is what I read:  Kismet–Fate; a predetermined or unavoidable destiny.  This is what I felt: Kismet–Love 

Kismet is now 14 years old. Although he is nearly deaf and arthritic, he still enjoys his daily walks and play time. His presence in our home has filled our hearts with warmth and joy. He has mended our broken hearts in ways we never thought possible.

Thank you, Kismet, and Happy Birthday. We love you.