Erik, you were my little Phantom of the Tanks. I named you after the Phantom of the Opera. I even wrote ‘Box 5’ on you nest box. You earned the title ‘Phantom of the Tanks’ after terrorizing your brother, Michael. I had to separate you two because you declanned. You and Michael became next door neighbors, in your tanks on a table. I’m glad Michael is still with me.
I never thought I’d love a gerbil, but when you boys came into my life nearly two years ago, I quickly became attached. I enjoyed watching your antics — running on the wheel, eating, digging tunnels, and doing gerbil things. You became quite the climber after I had to remove your wheel. I’d look over and there you would be, up on the side wires. Other times you’d sit on you balcony just relaxing.
This past January, you had a large tumor removed from under your tail. I’ve always thought it was cancer, but it never came back. I feel like you had seven extra good, happy months of life.
You enjoyed life in its fullness.
You were so active, Erik, running up and down from from your tank to the tank topper where you wheel, food bowl, and water bottle were. You could really run!
I’m go glad I took many pictures of both you and Michael. They bring back so many good, happy memories.
Have fun at the Rainbow Bridge, my little Phantom.
My Phantom, Erik.
| Erik |
| Dana |