Bogey, Koele, Remy-
Our lives started to change the day our beautiful English Chocolate Lab, Bogey, came into our lives. Walking around the neighborhood and occasional visits to the dog park never seemed to satisfy the breed’s most primal needs, with such strong ties to nature. One day, we packed up some basic camping supplies and headed for “leashes optional” ground. What we discovered was something much bigger than a weekend trip — it was a lifestyle. It turns out we humans have strong ties to nature, too, and our boy Bogey helped us rediscover that. From that day forward, we found ourselves on the road more days each year, rolling out every chance we had. Airplanes and hotels were replaced with the open road and the great outdoors. Our camping experience has certainly evolved over time, but the simple things still bring the greatest joy — a warm campfire, a quiet hike in the woods, or a cold lake for the boys to swim in.
A few years later, Koele came into our lives — an English Golden Retriever. We chose the English breed because we were told they had a calmer temperament than the American breed. Calm is a description that suits Bogey well — actually, it’s a significant understatement. It does not, in any way, describe Koele. The first sign of what was to come happened when we picked him up from his breeder. Trying to be thoughtful, we mentioned how difficult it must be to part with the puppies they had raised. The response was simple and telling: “Some are easier than others.” We soon learned exactly what that meant as sleep deprivation set in for weeks… or maybe months. Over time, Koele settled somewhat, and we came to understand something special — Koele is everything Bogey isn’t, and Bogey is everything Koele isn’t. Individually, they are perfect, but together, they are extraordinary. They bring out the best in each other and in us. Together, they made bad days tolerable, good days amazing, and life an adventure.
Then in October of 2022, we lost Bogey — our soulmate, our trail guide, and the heart behind the journey that changed our lives. The road was still there, and the adventures continued, but something was missing. The silence he left behind was heavy, and our hearts needed time to heal.
That healing led us to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah — a place that brought us comfort in ways we never expected. Walking through Angels Rest and Angels Overlook gave us a deep sense of peace and a spiritual connection to the animals who had touched so many lives. It was there that we found Remy. Remy came into our lives at just eight weeks old — a small puppy with a big spirit and a gentle soul. We named him Remy, short for remembrance, to honor Bogey, the sanctuary’s mission, and the belief that love never truly leaves us. Through Remy, we carry forward the legacy of the dog who started it all. Where Bogey showed us the path, and Koele filled our lives with energy and balance, Remy represents renewal. He has brought laughter back into our home, curiosity back into our travels, and a deeper appreciation for every mile of the journey. He reminds us daily that even after loss, life continues to open new doors, new trails, and new adventures.
Our dogs have never simply been pets — they are the reason we set out, the reason we explore, and the reason we keep moving forward. Together, their spirit, energy, and love shaped the life we live today — one built around the open road, the beauty of nature, and the joy of sharing the journey.
And so we continue to roll on, chasing sunsets, finding new places, and living a life guided by loyalty, love, and the call of the outdoors.
