Una Memento

Weekend Writing Assignment sponsored by Brainstorms & Bylines. A short story about a memento of the past. I got a little choked up writing this one.

Peanut.

Hi. I'm 8 years old. I just got this cute puppy. I named him Peanut because his head is shaped like one. Some people think it’s because he’s a beagle, like Snoopy from Peanuts, but I tell them it’s not. I love Peanut. He is so soft and sweet. I hug him when I'm sad or scared. And I sleep with him every night.

We just found out that we have to move. I'm in sixth grade now so I understand. It’s because of my dad’s work. My little sister is having a hard time with it. She's only in fourth grade. We have to leave our dog with friends. But I have Peanut. I'll be fine as long as I have my stuff and my Peanut. I plan to get my own real dog just like Peanut someday.

I’m tired of moving. We have moved so many times. My parents say the economy is bad. Whatever. I’m just glad I haven’t had to change schools. And friends. Peanut has been with me every time. He is my one constant in all this change. I’ll be taking him to college with me next year, too. I still plan to get a real one, just like him.

I’m moving into my own apartment next week. College was fun but I’m ready to be on my own. I had lots of boyfriends, which means lots of breakups and Peanut saw me through them all. I can always depend on my Peanut.

I finally got a real puppy! His name is Cody. He’s so cute! And he’s smart. He’s the best puppy ever! But I haven’t forgotten about Peanut. He is still on my dresser.

I’m engaged! We are moving into our own place. Now I have my great dogs Cody and Peanut, and someone to share them with.

Still moving. So tired of moving. It’s harder each time and we have kids now. Have to go where the jobs are. I don’t think Cody can take another move. Good old dog. And I still have Peanut.

Saying good-bye to Cody was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I guess I’m lucky because I know people who have lost loved ones. But to me, Cody was a family member. All my boys want another dog. I don’t know if I’ll ever be ready. I’ve been sleeping with Peanut again.

Peanut is my link to the past. He’s been with me through it all. Just a worn out stuffed dog, with a heart of gold.