09/06/2026
The Rainbow Bridge was packed as far as the eye could see as we awaited our newest arrival, and a ripple of excitement moved throughout the crowd.
“Mamaw?” I whispered. “I’m so nervous — this boy is soooo famous!”
“I know, sweetheart, just breathe. Fainting in front of his handsomeness isn’t a good look,” she whispered back with a smile.
Suddenly, the sky broke open and golden rays of sunshine burst forth. And trotting over the Bridge like he owned the place was none other than Tucker Budzyn!
We all rushed to him.
“Tucker! Oh my gosh! I can’t believe you’re here! You’re even more handsome in person!” I gushed.
“Why, I bet you’re Destiny. I heard there might be a little red Pibble greeting me. And a very noisy sidekick,” he chuckled, nodding towards Jazzy, who was bouncing around his feet, barking her fool head off.
“I iz not a sidekick, I run da place!” she barked. “And Big Fella, you should see da shindig I gots planned for you! We gots chimkin nuggets, chimkin cake, chimkin cookies — we gots all da chimkin you is ever gonna want!”
“It sounds like it’s gonna be a party!” he replied. “But first, can we go to that Lake place I’ve heard about so I can talk to Linda and Mr. Linda?”
Giggling, I said, “You mean Courtney and Mike, your pawrents?”
“Yep, those are the ones,” he laughed.
We took a walk to Serenity Lake and as we stood on the dock, looking out at the crystal clear water, I said, “Tucker, you’re adored by millions around the world so they already know your story. What would you like to share with everyone now?”
He stood there a moment, looking at the water and said, “Hmm…be right back…”
Next thing I know, Tucker took a flying leap into Serenity Lake, splashing around like a fool!
“Ah, it’s just like home, Destiny!” he exclaimed, splashing all of us as he came outta the water and shook off!
We all giggled.
“You know, Destiny, I’d like to tell Linda, you did everything you could possibly do to make me better, so be gentle with yourself. I saw your tears when you told the world I was gone and it broke my heart. Linda, you were the best mom ever and Mr. Linda, the best dad. I never wanted for anything and I was loved every single moment of every single day. You made my world perfect and I will love you for all eternity.
“For all of you grieving, I’m still here — watching over you, splashing in the water, and, if my new friends are any indication, getting into all sorts of shenanigans!
“Todd, you’re in charge now so I expect next level mischief. Make sure to roob your butt on the clean walls a time or two and track a bit of mud through the house in my honor. Preferably after Linda cleans the floors.
“I love all of you. Thank you for loving me.”
Wiping back tears, I said, “Brother, that was beautiful. Welcome home, Tucker, welcome home.”
Love
Angel Destiny 🌈
