'My Buddy and Me' Tells Heartwarming Story of Lexington Man and His Dog

John Steedly never guessed that a puppy his son brought home one day would become his long-time companion. 

About 16 years later, Steedly has filled more than 200 pages with stories about adventures he and his dog Buddy took on his 16-acre property in Lexington he named "Butterfly Creek."

After Buddy passed away about two years ago, Steedly began journaling memories of his time with his beloved friend. His book, "My Buddy and Me," has sold about 1,000 copies since it was published in 2011.

"It started out as a real short, little personal story," Steedly said, "but it mushroomed, and memories started coming back." 

Steedly tells the stories of his daily walks with Buddy on the trails through the woods at "Butterfly Creek" and their encounters with honey bees, dragonflies, turtles, deer, snakes, racoons and geese. 

"In 14 years you can experience quite a few things if you have a companion like Buddy," Steedly said. "It's not boring at all." 

The stories are accompanied by large, stunning nature photographs that Steedly captured during his explorations with Buddy. (Photography is one of Steedly's many hobbies.)

During their years together, Buddy learned to stop and wait for Steedly when he paused to take pictures of nature. Buddy and Steedly would also track animals in the woods or enjoy games of fetch, hide-and-seek or follow the leader. 

Steedly said that since he published his book, he has received cards, e-mails and letters from fellow pet-lovers who read his book and thanked him for telling the heartwarming story of his time with Buddy. 

"My Buddy and Me" is on consignment in local stores, including 14 Carrot Whole Foods and the Feed Barn.

Steedly's book, as well as prints of his photography, can also be ordered on his website www.johnsteedly.com. The book is $17, plus $3 for shipping.