I was awakened not only by the New Year's fireworks last night but to the sound of Beau going bonkers in his crate.  At first I thought he needed to go potty, but when I opened his door he shot out and barreled straight past me, not to the doggy door but to the bedroom and right into my bed.  I did my best to calm him, but every time he heard the pop, pop, pop, he got upset.  At one point he nosedived under the covers and hid his face in the crook of my arm.  Finally, after some cuddling, soothing tones, and a dose of Rescue Remedy (which he didn't like the taste of at all), he settled down and slept calmly through the night.  He was a really good bed buddy and didn't move around much.  He slept most of the night right at my feet, just like Bubba used to do.  I've really missed that since Bubba died.  It's where he slept every night for 12 years.  I lit a farewell candle in memory of him last night, as we bade farewell to the year that took him from us; but it also brought us Beau, who is as wonderful a companion as anyone could ask for.  A couple of times in the night I glanced down at the foot of the bed to see another beautiful red and white basset warming my feet.  I fell asleep counting my blessings, which always have four paws and floppy ears.

Tonight is Peaches turn in the bed, though.  I don't want her to feel left out.  I expect it won't be too long before both dogs are in my bed, just like before.