Thank you for all your kind words and emails...

They mean so much.

We are all struggling so with the loss of Darla. She brought such joy to our everyday lives, we didn't realize how much until we lost her. She was part of our family and part of us.

Many can't understand why people would be so upset. "It's just a dog" some will say. Quite frankly I feel sorry for those who can't understand. I can't imagine not feeling that unconditional love, joy and happiness a pet brings.

My sweet hubs is having such a difficult time. I feel so bad for him. He's a strong man, but keeps breaking down in tears at just the thought of her. Telling me how much he misses her.

Gracie is so unbelievable lost. She has always had a 4 legged companion since we brought her into our home 7 years ago. She has no one to play with now. I try to play with her but it's not the same. She and Darla we two peas in a pod. Even with a 6 year difference, Darla chased her around the house on a daily basis. Parading around with a toy in their mouth, as if to say, "Ha! Ha!! Look what I've got!!" They shared everything. They were never separated. Until now.

Now, Gracie is running through the house with her nose to the ground, crying and trying to find her sister. It's heart wrenching.

Me, all I do is cry. I cry for my husband. I cry for my Gracie.
I cry for my Darla. Second guessing if I could have done more for her. Maybe I should have... If I only did... Like I said, I'm the "mama." Mamas make everything all better. I couldn't this time.

I have had to say goodbye to two other dogs in my lifetime. As as unbelievably painful as it was, letting go of Darla has been the worst. I guess our bond was strongest. I have lost my loyal best friend, my sidekick my shadow.

I know time will heal our pain. But right now we are all hurting and it feels like an eternity.

I want to thank a dear internet friend who sent me this poem yesterday.
(Thank you, Judy) ♥
I know there are others out there who are struggling too with their loss. You will find this comforting.


I will lend to you for a while a puppy, God said,
For you to love her while she lives
and to mourn for her when she is gone.
Maybe for 12 or 14 years, or maybe for 2 or 3
But will you, till I call her back
take care of her for me?
She'll bring her charms to gladden you and
(should her stay be brief)
you'll always have her memories
as solace from the grief.
I cannot promise that she will stay
since all from Earth return,
But there are lessons taught below
I want this pup to learn.
I've searched the whole world over
in search of teachers true,
And from the fold that crowd life's land
I have chosen you.
Now will you give her all you love
Nor think the labor vain,
nor hate Me when I come to take
My pup back home again?
I fancied that I heard them say,
"Dear Lord, Thy Will Be Done,"
For all the joys this pup will bring
the risk of grief you'll run.
Will you shelter her with tenderness,
Will you love her while you may?
And for the happiness you'll know
forever grateful stay?
But should I call her back
much sooner than you've planned,
please brave the bitter grief that comes
and try to understand.
If, by your love, you've managed
My wishes to achieve,
In memory of her that you've loved,
cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,
and know she loved you too.