Thank You

I want to thank all of you for your thoughtful comments, emails and phone calls as I grieve the loss of my beloved dog, Sheldon. I wish I could express how each of you touched my heart in this time of devastating loss. To those who shared your own personal stories of loosing a beloved pet, please know that my heart goes out to you as well. Sheldon was my friend; he brought me comfort when I was down and companionship when I was lonely. He made me laugh at his antics, he made me feel that unconditional love as a faithful friend and yes, at times he drove me crazy. He was always with me through thick and thin. I will miss him terribly, but I am grateful for the twelve years we shared.

I knew that I needed to come to terms and for me there was one place I needed to be — the beach. This is what I need to see and feel…

I spent the weekend with my cousin in Neptune Beach, Florida. We walked the beach early Sunday morning, just talking and picking up a few shells that were scattered on the shore. I enjoyed watching the dogs running and playing in the waves. I met some amazing animals and got more than a few sloppy doggy kisses. Did they know? Dogs have that instinctive trait that lets them understand when someone is suffering. They made me laugh, they made me cry. They did what dogs do ‚ they filled my heart with joy.

Of course, you know I still had to search for a cute lifeguard, but alas, he was not to be found on that day. Can you see the disappointment on my face?

The beach soothed my soul and eased the pain a bit. I will always picture Sheldon with me as I walk the shore, he will always be with me in my heart.