Good bye to a loyal companion....

There are things that happen  in our lives that make us slow down, take a look around and appreciate all that life has to offer.   During this busy time of year when our calendars are full, way to many obligations, undue stress we often forget what is really important...our family, our friends, our pets....

I have been so very blessed with many loving, loyal pets in my life.  I really won't even call them pets, they were more my companions, true friends, confidants.   I loved each and every one of them and when they passed on, it was hard to say good bye.

I lost another true, sweet, big brown eyed friend yesterday.   My dog Samantha passed away.  It was time. She had not felt good in a long time, her hips were bad, her hearing was going and she wasn't her sweet self anymore.  She tried to tell me many times, but I wouldn't listen,  I was selfish.  But yesterday, I heard her.
Samantha is now running free of pain, playing with her old friends and making new ones.  Her favorite thing to do was swim, so I am so hoping she has a huge, crystal clear lake to swim in until her hearts content.  I will miss her riding beside me in the jeep, doing her "alligator roll" when playing tug of war and just sitting quietly beside me, protecting me.   She was a damn good dog. 

But I will not grieve too much,  she made my life happy, made me take a walk when I didn't want to, barked at scary strangers that got too near and comforted me when I needed a friend.  So her job here on earth was served with pride and loyality.   and for that I am thankful....I will miss her, but I know I will see her again...along with the rest of my pack...

So today,  just take a minute to remember that there are more important things in life than buying presents, getting presents.  The only present that is really required is very basic...just live your life full of grace and dignity...just like Samantha did...