My husband, Aaron and I got Oreo as a puppy and he quickly became our first child. We went to training classes as a family. Oreo was Aaron's first dog and he really did become his best friend. Border Collies can be pretty amazing at the speed they learn new tricks. Oreo quickly knew more than we could remember we taught him. When you brought out a treat he often went "all in" trying to anticipate the trick you want him to do. Not a day went by that Aaron and Oreo didn't hang out on the porch with a tennis ball. It wasn't all good times, we made it through water toxicity and an unusual stick lodged in his neck but was still a happy dog.

We noticed he was slowing down around 12 and when he turned 13 was diagnosed with Lymphoma. It is hard to see such a lively dog not able to move.

Here's to a great dog and first kid. We will love him always.