A Man For All Seasons

I knew a man once, named Otto. He was quite a man. He seemed to know so much about so many things. I loved to speak with him, and I loved to walk with him through the Black Forest in Bavaria.

He was the man who introduced me to Rauhhaardackels, mushroom hunting, and Slivovitz. He didn’t laugh at my naivety, and since he spoke beautiful English (his native language was German) we were able to really connect.

He did have a wonderful laugh, and when we spoke he always called me “My dear girl”, making me feel very cherished.

He and his wife owned the first Shubi.

The first Rauhhaardackel that I fell in love with. Their Shubi was such a delight and my love affair began with this wonderful breed of dog.

We went to see him and his wife in Bavaria, shortly after their Shubi was killed by a car. I remarked that we should buy puppies together. I said this as we left to go out to the store. By the time we got back, Otto had located a litter of puppies, and the rest is history!

Me with my baby, Shubi.

I visited him and his wife often, always bringing Shubi to see her brother, Toni! This picture was taken of Otto and I as we walked along. That is my Shubi between us.

Otto passed away a few years ago from cancer, but his kindness, his hearty laughter and his love will remain with me throughout my life. Even though he was Hubby’s friend, and the friend of Hubby’s first wife, he never made me feel that I was any less. In fact, I always felt special when I was visiting him and his wife.

I miss him still, and I think I always will.