Samson began bringing joy into my life in December 2000.  At the time he was small enough to sit on my lap on the ride home, and the first thing we did was go to a Christmas party.  When we got there he was descended upon by about 10 kids.  He wore himself out that night running and playing with those kids and three dogs.  After that he absolutely loved kids and other dogs, which was a good thing since he grew to weigh 110 lbs.  He loved herding my niece and nephew around when they were little and they grew to love my "gentle giant."  As he got older (and bigger!), his personality grew with him.  He was a kind and playful soul, and he displayed a sense of humor that kept me smiling all of the time.  He always wore his "doggy grin" and was the most hopeful being I've ever known.  He soothed my soul and my favorite name for him was "Sweet Boy."  I couldn't have asked for a better dog, companion, and best friend.  I will miss Samson with all of my heart.  I can only hope that he took my love with him when he left this world.