He was known by so many names. Boo, Boo Bird, Roo, Mick, Mick-a-rooney, Mick-a-roo, Mickers, and of course his given name Mickey Tyler Carrozziere. The Tyler was put in by Rachel who insisted that Tyler should have been a first name, but if it had to be voted down then it should at least be included as a second name. We all agreed of course knowing that any formal name should have a middle initial to go with it. To us he was brother, a son, a boy to do things with on a boys night (which usually meant dad and Mick watching football with popcorn). The Carrozziere's have a way of dramatizing everything, but in this case Mickey really fit each role; we weren't making them up for him. He learned to value real sauce over canned anything and usually would refuse to eat unless some marinara was mixed in. He learned the art of hearing a car pull in and being at the door to greet its passenger; however if the passenger happened to be mom Mickey's excitement tripled. No one held a higher place in his heart than mom. He adored her and would perk up his ears at even the mention of her name. If someones voice got too loud around her or he felt that she was put in danger he was sure to come to her rescue even if it was just dad trying to give mom a hug. On Christmas morning he too had to be held back at the stairs told to wait until he could devour his stocking's surprises...and on many occasions he found a way to slip past the blockade and run right towards the presents. He knew how to open presents as well, tearing the paper with his teeth. Of course this tradition was started at his first birthday party where the neighborhood animals and cousin's pets were invited. We had quite the turn out with every animal attending with a gift and participating in party games. Mickey was a perfect fit into our family. Mom and dad didn't know he was coming so soon, but their three teenage girls were so persistent that a we were missing a vital piece to our clan that they allowed the afternoon trip out to Cortland to look at puppies. Mickey came right up to me and licked my hand; from that moment on he was a part of our entourage, and a loved family member. When Andy and I started to talk about marriage I told him that not only did he have to meet my sisters and parents but also Mickey. Andy's proposal was a surprise because he had flown to NY without me knowing it. He has spoken to my father in person and then flew back to Houston ready to give me a ring. His opening line was that he had met someone I had been wanting him to get acquainted with. Having no idea he had made this trip I was utterly confused; when he pulled out this picture I knew he had finally met the last family member and gotten his approval. ( As well as my dad's ok) So in a way Mickey is the reason I have such a fun proposal story.
No one will be able to replace his presence in our household, and he will be deeply missed. We are so grateful for the amazing memories we have, and for the joy God gave us in sharing our lives with him. For those of you who also believe that all dogs go to heaven you'll have to come meet him when you get there.
