Farewell My Friend
Several people have sent me e-mails and have left voice mails recently. I have even received a couple of rude follow-ups. My apologies for not getting back to you, I will try and do so this weekend.
I’ve said little about it, but this past Thursday, I laid to rest a Chesapeake that meant more to me than I can articulate. As my heart tries to mend from her loss, tomorrow, I will grieve again as I am reminded of our last moments together, when I go and pick up her ashes. I just haven’t had it in me to follow-up to emails, discuss puppies, plans, events etc… I’m sorry. No. I take that back. I’m not sorry.
Every day we wish our lives away, wanting the minutes, the days, the weeks, the months to be over. We complain about how time goes by so slow and, yet, I will argue that time goes by so fast. So very fast. Before we realize it time has slipped by. A year. 5 years. 13 1/2 years. I was reminded that we are each given a limited amount of time to be on this earth and every day we get to choose how we are going to spend that time. Grab a leash. Take a walk – even in the rain or cold. Throw a ball. Give a treat. Snuggle on the couch. Take photos, there can never be too many photos. When our time is up, there are no tomorrows. No do-overs. No second chances. Spend what time you have wisely, embrace it – don’t wish it away.
They say letting our dogs go, when it’s time, is the kindest thing we can do for our companions. This may be true, but I say it’s the most unkind thing to our hearts.
Farewell, my sweet friend.
So sorry for your loss! She looks just like my Chessie that passed in December, she was just over 12. Cherish the memories! It’s so hard but know you gave her the best life you could! I love your photos!
Having had my heart shredded many times over the yrs, I can totally relate to your loss and pain. Just know there are many of us who care, and we will be here when you are ready. HUGS!!!!
This brought me to tears. I know how short our time here on earth is, and how trying it can be. Having River makes me smile…5 mile walks help me as much as him. He’s almost four…it went so quickly. I’m almost 68…went so quickly. People think I’m crazy because I spend so much of my time with River. Activities, pictures, etc.. But I don’t want to waste one moment of my time with him…..because I understand how short life really is.
You have lovely memories and lots of pictures that captured her essence. As you grieve for her…..HUGS from River and me.
I am truly sorry for her loss.
Gale and River
So sorry for your loss, Kerry. It’s obvious how special she was to you. And what beautiful pictures. You’re in my thoughts.
Jessie’s drive was the truest representation of a Chesapeake. She was a good girl
Lovely tribute. A cyber hug to you. I hope eventually when you think of her it will only bring a smile to your face. They are never here long enough.
Warmest regards, Karen
oh kerrie. i am so sorry. time to take more pictures of our wonderful coolwater’s leap at the chance. and he does! such a big warm snuggly bear and so full of energy and life. we send our most loving thoughts across the miles to you. a few more leaps into the rio grande under blubird skies for jessie and you. we love you much.
paula and chance
Stay strong during this difficult time. The first Chessie came into our home when I was 15, and I have had one or two at a time ever since then. Dogs are so special, and Chessies are at the top of my list over the rest. Losing a dog is no different than losing a close human friend.relative. The heart wrenching is the same. Those who don’t get that either don’t have dogs, or are not good dog owners. I hesitate to say owner, because I never felt that. In my home, the dogs own me, and I would not have it any other way. Good luck to you in these trying times.
Everyone who has ever deeply loved a dog, such as you did your dear one, has tear-filled eyes reading your love-filled tribute. You are so true in your exhortations to “seize the day”, because time is far too short and passes far too quickly. That is THE lesson we learn from our dogs: live in the moment, live for the moment, live to love and play. It’s what I call Dog Philosophy to Live By: “Be the puppy.” I always say when you look up “joie de vivre” in a dictionary, it should have a dog’s picture next to it as an illustration. I wish you Peace as your mourn your loss. Such small creatures have a big impact on our lives … and leave a an even bigger hole in our hearts when they leave. But, they are ever faithfully waiting for us …
My beautiful, amazing Chessie “Betsy” passed 2 years ago at the ripe old age of 14. Oh how I loved her … and the adventures we had together! She taught me to love so much beyond her … including the precious chocolate Lab (grand-dog) at my feet right now. His presence and incredible personality is a “bitter-sweet” reminder of my Betsy girl. My heart goes out to you and all of us who have enjoyed the brief gift bestowed upon us by these precious spirits.
I too have just said goodbye on Wednesday to my dear sweet Benjamin, I too have heard all those words. I am SoSo sorry for your loss. I know that words are just that . Nothing can replace our pups, nothing. They are there with us, by our side always ready to love. I just want to Thank you for your post. The pain is unreal. I find it hard to breath some minutes as I think of my loss. I just want one more Good Boy, I love you Ben. One more head in the window as I pull in the driveway.
One more “ look at him isn’t he amazing, “ They say time heals, I know that is true. But for now I sit missing my boy. Good bless to you and who know maybe your Jessie and my Banjamin are playing . Waiting for us to come on day.
Love and hugs