Vern Turns Two on Tuesday!!

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

On January 10, 2012, our Vern turns two.  He has grown into a big dog, all ninety pounds of him, and we cannot imagine our life without him.  Every morning, the first living thing to greet me is Vern.  He swings by our bed and stands staring at us until we open our eyes.  He stands there wagging his tail, with a smile on his face, even though some mornings we ask him to stop by later after we have slept a little longer.  No matter how nicely we ask, he continues to stand there wagging his tail.  Even Fudge usually gets a wet kiss in the morning and knows Vern is not leaving until someone gets up.

 

There is just something about Vern that touches my heart.  Whenever I try and describe what it is, I always come back to the word endearing.  He is a joyful, happy dog and once you win his heart, it is yours forever.  He is the first dog that I have had that doesn’t instantly warm up to every person he meets.  He has to come around in his own time, but once you are in, you are in for life.  Vern is not the bravest dog, but he tries hard and gives a mighty bark sometimes at things only Vern sees and hears.

 

Both our dogs like you to hold their paws, but Vern will sit up beside you and actually hug you. He puts his paws on your shoulders and buries his head in your neck.  It is actually one of the sweetest things about Vern.  My oldest daughter said Vern is a big dog that thinks he is a small dog.  That may be true, but Vern has a big dog heart and loves Fudge and his family and makes us smile everyday.  Happy Birthday, Vernors Macaroni!!

Vern's Puppy Picture:

The Day Vern Arrived at Our House:

In the Beginning-Fudge and Vern:

Fudge Says, "What the Heck Happened?"

One of My Favorite Pictures of Vern (aka Polar Bear):

Another Favorite:

Best Buds Forever:

[F, Calla & Luca]

Wonderful pictures and a lovely tribute. Vern reminds me of Calla, the wake up team. She too is slow to warm up too but physically she is a brave girl. But it seems like we've known Vern forever. How can he only be two?

[Jennifer and Jack]

Happy Birthday Vern... We are so happy you bring so much joy into your families life,. You actually bring joy to all of us here because we get to here you fun adventures. Endearing, loving, sweet, and a hand/paw holder, what more can you ask for...

[Camilla and Darwin]

Vern you are the best!!

[Ann Kendig]

Happy Birthday Vern!!!  I think it's wonderful that you give such great hugs!!!  It must be a guy thing as every male dog I've had has been a great hugger!!  Sending hugs to you, Vern!!  Love the photos.  : )

[Katie, John & Parker pup]

p.s. It cracks me up that Fudge is doing almost the same pose in the car photos!

[Katie, John & Parker pup]

haha he has grown into a big handsome boy! I like the car pictures before and after! He was a cute little boy! Happy 2nd Birthday!