When Life Isn't Fair
July 2013
Today I should be writing a blog post about gardening, offering ideas, inspiration and possibly a few laughs along the way (usually at my expense). Today that isn't going to happen.
Regular readers may recall when we adopted these two fluffy love bugs in July of 2013. While I was in England last October big, blonde Bo was diagnosed with advanced cancer and had to be put to sleep. Yesterday little Mia joined her. We discovered that she too had multiple tumors that were inoperable barely a week ago.
So I no longer need to take two bowls out to the vegetable garden to harvest strawberries or tomatoes.
I no longer have an excuse to stroll through the meadow and explore the wilder reaches of the garden.
Bo
I no longer have sticks left all over the grass waiting to wreck unsuspecting mowers
Really, there are plenty of leaves for both of you….
I no longer have my deer and rabbit alerts, gardening companions, truck dogs, welcoming committee.
Life is different. So I'm not going to try and write today except to say give your family, friends and pets an extra hug. Because life isn't always fair.
Mia and I getting to know one another; July 2013
What a sweet post my friend. All you can do is lift your loved ones up in light and happiness because that's where they are and they want that for you too. And you certainly did that here. When you meet all of them at the rainbow bridge, you will have SUCH the welcoming committee! <3 HUGS!!!
Thanks friend – what a beautiful picture. Hugs xx
Oh, I'm so sorry, Karen. No one does sweetness, joy, or love better than dogs. I'm sorry you lost yours far too soon.
So very true Stacy. Dogs are such love bugs! Thank you
You have had too many losses lately! Hugs. I read this today.
http://afirstsip.blogspot.com/2016/03/flare.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FWlDqbC+%28First+Sip%29
When loneliness comes stalking, go into the fields, consider
the orderliness of the world. Notice
something you have never noticed before,
like the tambourine sound of the snow-cricket
whose pale green body is no longer than your thumb.
Stare hard at the hummingbird, in the summer rain,
shaking the water-sparks from its wings.
Let grief be your sister, she will whether or no.
Rise up from the stump of sorrow, and be green also,
like the diligent leaves.
A lifetime isn't long enough for the beauty of this world
and the responsibilities of your life.
Scatter your flowers over the graves, and walk away.
Be good-natured and untidy in your exuberance.
In the glare of your mind, be modest.
And beholden to what is tactile, and thrilling.
Live with the beetle, and the wind.
~ Mary Oliver
So beautiful Susan, thank you for taking the time to share that. Nature – and my garden – are certainly key for recovery from grief, at least for me.
I am so very sorry for your losses. Thank you for sharing your life with these senior dogs and for sharing all of this with your readers.
Thank you for your thoughtful words Julie
So sorry for your loss…but know that you made their last days good ones.
I appreciate your kind words Jane – thank you
Sorry for you loss.
Thanks Mel
Dear Karen,
Condolences on the loss of Mia; pet, best friend, and family member. Remember what a good friend she was to you.
Indeed; thanks Julie
Thankyou for such a beautiful way to "organize" our emotions… as I wipe away the tears I know I will be looking at family, friends and animals a whole lot differently! Today is a new day!
Thanks for your kind words Jeanne
I'm so sorry, Karen — life is indeed not fair sometimes. I wish I was there to give you a huge hug, knowing that it wouldn't make it all right, but just that you have a friend who loves you. And judging by the response here, you have many more than one. <3
Thanks so much Jenny – means the world. xx
I'm so sorry Karen. Your dogs were so great. It's so hard to lose our four legged furry friends. I know there is a big hole in your heart but may the many wonderful memories bring you comfort. My best to you and Andy.
Thanks Deborah. Hope you're doing well in your new home. Big hugs from us both
Our pets reside in a very special place in our hearts…once they wiggle in, they stay forever even if they are no longer physically with us. Sounds like you gave your two the best life a dog could have in their latter years. My sincerest condolences.
Thank you Michaele – wiggle they did
As a fellow animal lover, my heart is heavy for your anguish and loss. Katie shared the story with me and after seeing your beautiful thoughts I knew I must write and tell you how sorry I am that you have lost two beloved pets. Dogs bring us such unconditional love and joyful moments as we laugh at them chasing leaving or as they walk by our sides on paths of adventure. They know when we are sad, happy,or upset and always seem to know just how to bring comfort. My thoughts are with you and your family as you grieve.
Thank you for your thoughtful words Linda. I know from Katie you have also experienced much grief in recent years. I appreciate your encouragement and understanding
You have brought tears to my eyes and sorrow to my heart, Karen. If I were there I'd make you a cocktail and we would toast to Mia & Bo.
Thanks Ellen, I know you are a Golden lover also. We'll share that cocktail one day. Hugs to you
Thank you for your post. "Grief is the last act of love we can give to those we loved. Where there is deep grief there was great love." Unknown
That is the perfect quote Jude – thank you
That is shattering… Take comfort in the fact that you gave them the BEST (as seen on Facebook 🙂 ) while they were with you in this life.
Thanks Cindy. They were so much fun – and fur!
Your post was so eloquent in expressing your loss. Hugs to you during this most difficult time. We never forget them.
That is so true – thank you Peggy
I had to read your blog post over after the first time because, I have to admit, it hurt to know of what your wrote. More than once, I've had to say goodbye to pets that either thru old age or illness, passed from this world.. and left me missing them terribly. The last pup I had owned I had from pup hood to 15. I felt I had lost my heart, soon after my cat passed. There just didn't seem to be any words left in me. Some time later, I came across Prince, an abused poor wee thing.. I gathered him up. And he came home. I didn't know I still had love in me. I now have 3 rescue dogs and 2 rescue cats. ■ I tell Prince, My buddy Mike watches over him. Prince just looks me in the eyes and we both know. For me, I believe all the pets I've owned will be there when my time comes, I shalln't have to be lonely for any of them ever again. It eases my heart. I hope love eases yours. Sending you my hugs
Thanks Blue – so lovely to hear your story. Thank you for taking the time to leave a note of encouragement for me
Karen , I'm so sorry ! Hugs! Kathy
Thanks Kathy
Karen, my heart is sending a big hug and only 1 modest suggestion: check out the book "Dog Heaven" by Cynthia Rylant – her work lent my soul a place of solace after my Bear-dog had to make his leave. The illustrations are… perfect. Take good care.
Thank you Annie; I'll look that up.
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