A year ago today.

Timbers spirit went back to the earth. She is still missed and I dreaded this day. I wondered how a pet, one of many that have traveled through my life, could affect me this much. Was it because she went through so many times of sorrow with me? I probably will never know.

Even in the last few months before her death, I knew it was going to happen. I tried to prepare myself. The end was still overly painful. Unlike my parents and loved ones that have gone before me, I don't believe four legged spirits join us after death. It makes it so final.

But today came without sorrow. Only great memories of a day gone by. A spirit that warmed my heart and will rest there throughtout my life. This is a tribute to loving pets. They are worth taking care of, loving and respecting. Time on earth is prescious. They are part of the family.

God Bless those who travel through my little blog.
Carol

I'm doing fine, but my heart hurts.

A long time ago, I saw a neighbor that lost her husband of 55 years. As a young stupid person I ask how she was doing. She calmly, forced a smile and said that she was doing fine, but her heart hurt. I never forgot it.

Regardless of the loss, be it your grandparents, parents, friend, companion, or your way, the intensity of your hurt heart is personal. No one can tell you how long the hurt continues. How many tears are enough. Your heart will decide that.

When I lost Timber, my emotions were out there for all to see. Than I told myself others have lost more and that she was a dog not important as others losses. I tried to feel good. Told myself to stop mourning and get my act together. But for me it wasn't that easy, I was trying to be strong so others would not think bad of me.

Then virtual friends, friend, and family told me to go ahead and hurt, to cry, be an air head as long as I needed because she was special, she was my responsibility, my companion, my accomplishment, she was a great girl. I could mourn her, and now I am, without apology.

I too can say, I am doing fine, but my heart hurts.

I am stronger due to my friends and loved ones. Because of you, I know I am on the right track and when my heart stops hurting smiles will come and fond memories will return.

Carol

One less good guy.

Today, we lost a friend. It was a shock due to the fact we saw him Saturday full of life. Sunday he went in to surgery for a blocked artery, Sunday night had a massive stroke, Monday he got worse, Tuesday his brain was inactive, Wednesday morning he passed away.

Mike was known in all three small communities around the area. Not because he frequented bars or talked for hours over coffee in the local cafes or for the silly things people talk about in small towns. Mike was a giver and a good guy, he not only belonged to the Lions but was extremely active. He like others in this organization gave willingly to grilling hamburgers and hot dogs on hot days to make money for local needs, but Mike never failed to give. He was also a God loving, family man who when entering a building made people smile. He was a avid golfer and helped in setting up charitable events again for local fund raisers.

Mike was in his 70's but you wouldn't have known it. He was youthful and vibrant. He will be missed. We've had a few days to think about life since Monday when we heard he was not doing well. And when deciding to write this post I too wanted to share my thoughts, don't wait till it is too late to say you love someone near and dear. Life is way to short.

As with every death, you realize that our time here is so short. And the good don't always die young. So for tonight, God Bless and may your loved ones know they are loved when they lie down and close their eyes.