I’m Leaving Now

Shiloh

Shiloh

I always knew this day would come, I just didn’t know when. Endings come too fast when you’re happy, and I’ve been so very happy at Asherpark.

It’s a beautiful warm sunny day. It’s the kind of day that makes your heart ache for something you can’t quite explain.

I’m leaving this evening. Mama is waiting for me on the other side of the bridge just like she said she would. But first I have a few things to say.

Ash, you’ve been so good to me. You made me laugh. You were gentle when you played with me. I felt happy just being near you. Mama loved you too. Thank you, Ash. I will miss you.

Journey, I’ve grown to love your silly puppy self. You tried your best to be respectful and not annoy me. Did you know that when you were asleep in your crate I would lie down next to you? I liked to watch your lips quiver when you were dreaming.

There are no words big enough to thank the many people who saved my life when I had no hope. The rescue people in California who took me to a foster home and then drove me to Asherpark are special angels. I wouldn’t be here without them.

My human family at Asherpark showed me more kindness and love than I had ever known. They made me forget about the dark times. They taught me how how good love feels.

In some ways today has been a very good day. Once mom realized this was my last day, she never left my side. She’s been sitting next to me all day reminding me how much she loves me. She says my passage from this world will be an easy one. I hope she’s right. I hate needles!

There’s so much more to say, so many people to thank, but time has run out. Blessings on all who have dared to love a throw away dog like me. I will never forget your kindness.

 

Happy Birthday Journey

Journey in her RobeI can hardly believe little Journey is one year old today. It was only a few months ago she was a tiny pup with teeth like needles. Now she’s all grown up and auditioning to be a therapy dog.

Therapy Dog

I can’t wait to see what Journey learns next. Since mom started training us mutts, I’ve had to take the advanced classes that Journey will be taking. I can’t say I’m wild about going to school, but I’ve learned a lot and I get to go new places with mom.

Soon me and Journey can take our show on the road. We got places to go and people to see.

Ash and Journey

Stay tuned for Journey’s adventures. There’s a whole new year of surprises waiting for her. We love you Journey!

Remembering

Tess

Tess

She was my one true love. Nobody can ever replace Tess in my heart. I loved everything about her: the good, the bad, and the silly.

We were joined at the hip and heart. We did everything together except run off to the ravine. Despite all her flaws, Tess never dug under the fence to go with me on an adventure.

I taught Tess how to play with toys. She taught me how to be brave.

Ever since Journey explained how she met Tess on the rainbow bridge, I’ve been aching to talk to Tess. That’s why every chance I get I slip away to the ravine where I stay real quiet hoping Tess will speak to me.

 

Ash and Tess

Ash and Tess

I keep asking mom to explain death to me, but she says it’s too complicated. One minute someone you love is right there next to you, next thing they’re gone. But where did they go? And how come you can’t go with them – at least part of the way?

Tess and Ash

Tess and Ash

Mom told me we need to live in the moment, but I think  that’s kinda tricky. You want to remember the good stuff that’s already happened, but you don’t want the past to get in the way of having a good time and making new memories.

Maybe someday it will make sense to me. For now I’m lonesome for Tess and crazy happy that Journey is in my life. I sure love that little mutt.

Journey and Ash

Journey and Ash