Waiting

It's been a rough year end and I can hardly write this without drowning. I've lost my little friend, Maggie. She's been ill with a doggie disease that's got progressively worse and she passed, a few days ago. How can I even be writing those words? My heart is sick.

I hope and pray that she's on the other side...chasing squirrels, eating cookie cakes (yes, she ate one, once), bubble gum (she ate this too...a 6 foot piece of it) and other stuff she's not supposed to be into...and waiting for me...tail wagging at top speed.

xxoo to you, my sweet Miss Maggie.

Comments

[cathy @ ma vie trouvee]

Hi Deryn, with my relocation to Singapore I am behind on emails and just had a minute to catch up with yours(so many beautiful posts). But then I got to this very sad post and had to leave a little message. I am so sorry. A loss of a pet is as hard as any loss. I love the photo with the colors on her face. What a precious memory to have.

[Leslie Todd]

Deryn, I know it's so hard to lose our furry friends and family members. I firmly believe that we will see them again in Heaven.

Those are fantastic photos of Maggie! Her blue and red adventure must have been fun for her.

[Heidi Horan]

Oh my, I am so sorry, Deryn. The loss of a furry friend, anyone's, bring tears. Wishing that only fond memories remain.

[Doris L]

Deryn, I am so very sorry for your loss. These little guys have a way of digging their way deep into our hearts, don't they? So much part of the family.
Our Miss Maggie passed away almost exactly a year ago. Maybe the two of them are hanging out together now, chasing a squirrel up a tree?

[Mary Beth]

I am so sorry. She had such a sweet face. Wish I could give you a hug. xoxo

[Amanda]

Deryn, I just wanted to send some light and love your way. I know how painful it is to lose a companion animal, and your stories and photos of your little Maggie were always so sweet. If you are so inclined....read this book-Dogs of Dreamtime by Karen Shanley. It is one of my all time favorite books, and it helped me a great deal when I lost my "soul" dog Jasper. Sending light and love to you and your family-xo amanda

[Bobbie Breden]

Deryn-

Let me add my sympathy and empathy to those of all the other pet lovers who have felt the same pain and loss at the passing of an animal friend. They are more than pets, they are kind and loving companions, and when we lose one, a little bit of ourselves go with them. When it hurts less, remember that Maggie was lucky enough to have YOU in her life, too, and she had a wonderful life because of that. Let your heart be at peace remembering all the love you gave each other.

[tracey]

Aw, Deryn. I'm so sorry. She looks like she was a sweet sweet girl.

[Jay from The Depp Effect]

I know all too well the heartbreak of losing a beloved dog. I am so sorry. :((

One day you will be able to think of her and smile again. It took me a long long time after losing two within five weeks in 2008/9, but I'm about there now, though it will always hurt.

You have to think of the love you gave each other while she was still with you. Think of the good times, but allow yourself to grieve.

[Susan Tobin]

Oh, Deryn, this was the last thing you needed at this time, with your health problems wearing you down. I met that Maggie was a great comfort during your tough times, as my little Chloe is. There is unconditional love between humans and animal companions - and that kind of love is an important part of life. You can rest assured that you gave Maggie the best life you possibly could. And also, that she gave her love freely because you meant so much to each other. We cannot minimize the pain of loss of a beloved animal companion. It hurts. And it hurts deeply. I hope that after a time of mourning, when you feel "whole" again, that you will consider adopting another doggie who will give you a different kind of unconditional love. Maggie would want you to do that - if you so desire it. You are in my prayers as Maggie waits in her enlightened place, wagging that tiny tail. You know the story of the Rainbow Bridge? If not, here it is. If you know it, its a nice reminder during times of the pain of loss. I had no idea that it was inspired by a Norse legend!! Anything that old must have some truth. Here it is:

The Rainbow Bridge

inspired by a Norse legend

By the edge of a woods, at the foot of a hill,

Is a lush, green meadow where time stands still.

Where the friends of man and woman do run,

When their time on earth is over and done.

For here, between this world and the next,

Is a place where each beloved creature finds rest.

On this golden land, they wait and they play,

Till the Rainbow Bridge they cross over one day.

No more do they suffer, in pain or in sadness,

For here they are whole, their lives filled with gladness.

Their limbs are restored, their health renewed,

Their bodies have healed, with strength imbued.

They romp through the grass, without even a care,

Until one day they start, and sniff at the air.

All ears prick forward, eyes dart front and back,

Then all of a sudden, one breaks from the pack.

For just at that instant, their eyes have met;

Together again, both person and pet.

So they run to each other, these friends from long past,

The time of their parting is over at last.

The sadness they felt while they were apart,

Has turned into joy once more in each heart.

They embrace with a love that will last forever,

And then, side-by-side, they cross over… together.

With affection, Susan

[Lee]

Oh, so sorry for your loss. We love our furry friends so completely. My sweet cat Peanut has been gone for 1.5 years, and I still miss her. I have no doubt she is running and chasing mice in the eternal fields! Love doesn't end, it just changes. xo

[Marie]

I'm so sorry to hear of Maggie's loss. Sending big hugs. I know how hard this is!

[Kasha]

What a beautiful girln i am so sorry for you. I know how hard it is to lose a dog.

[Regina]

I am so sorry for your loss. It is rough to loose a friend.

[jenni connolly]

Deryn, I am rather late saying this, but I am so sorry to hear about your sweet dog, Maggie. I loved the picture of her with the blue face and remember that little adventure.My heart goes out to you, hugs, Jenni

[Legacy of a Single Girl]

I'm so sorry for your loss Deryn. I know your pain and my heart hurts for you. She will be waiting patiently in your mansion in Heaven. Quote from Billy Graham: God will prepare everything for our perfect happiness in heaven, and if it takes my dog being there, I believe he’ll be there.
Yours too! (mine too!! :-) )
Blessings,
Margo

[Lisa Bommarito]

It's been just 6 weeks since I lost my dear buddy Mac, I have his ashes, his best pictures, collar,tags and favorite bandana on the sideboard with a candle that I keep replacing daily, a lovely little shrine...I was shocked by the level of devastation and emptiness I felt, so I watched tsunami videos on youtube(trying to re-grasp some perspective), and went to the kill shelter and adopted a rescue dog. It helped alot. That, and knowing that I will indeed see him again. Bless you dear girl, hearts ease prayers raining down on you.

[Leigh]

I am so very sorry, Deryn. As a fellow dog fanatic, I can only imagine the pain you are feeling. My prayers for you to know the Peace of Christ in this time.

[stephani gorman]

So sorry Deryn, I am sitting here with my sweet little dog and can't imagine losing her... I am sure little Maggie is in doggie heaven wagging her tail,running and jumping with other four legged friends. Take care....Stephani

[Sherri Carpenter]

So sorry for your loss of such a special soul. She is running and jumping over the rainbow bridge with all our special friends. Hugs and prayers.

[Me]

Oh shoot, I said I wouldn't cry and here I sit with huge tears and can hardly see to type this to you. I love you and your little dog too!! I told you to take Paytie with you. Dang it! This sucks... I'm sorry and you know she is now without pain and she will always hold a special place in your heart, just like Jigger. Call me if you need me.
Your sister.... love you...

[Lisa Gatz]

I'm so sorry that you lost Maggie. I lost my 10 year old Golden in September and I understand how painful it is. Even when you prepare yourself. You will see her again. Beautiful, sweet puppy.

[Angie Platten]

oh Deryn, I just feel heart sick for you. It's such a difficult adjustment losing one. They are like our children! I lost my special, soul mate cat 4 years ago this past week and even after 4 years, I still found myself driving down the street, thinking of her with tears streaming down my face. They just never leave your heart. So sad for you. I'm confident she will be waiting for you. Completely confident.

[Dale]

I am truly sorry for the loss of your Maggie. I have lost 2 dogs and 3 cats in my lifetime and I am positive they ARE across the rainbow bridge waiting for us. I am also positive God gives us the gift of these loving creatures so we may experience true, unconditional love. What a joyful day it will be when we all reunite. My condolences.
Dale

[Cynthia]

I am so sorry for your loss. What a sweet dog.

[Alice]

Deryn, I'm so sorry you lost your sweet little Miss Maggie. My heart is breaking at such a loss. Cherish those sweet memories and the time you had together.

[CatHerder]

so so sorry for your loss

[Ann Faircloth]

I'm so very sorry for your loss, dear Deryn. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time. Please know that the Lord is watching over you; only in Him can you find true comfort.

[Renate]

My heart bleeds for you, Deryn. I am sooo sorry to hear this. But Miss Maggie has only raced ahead, as dogs will do - she is over the rainbow bridge and you will meet with her again. It is so hard - I know the feeling. Sending much love to comfort you.

[Diana Frey]

My heart aches for you my friend as you grieve the loss of your sweet Maggie.. I do hope and pray that the rest of 2012 blesses you with peace and countless fond memories of your dear companion. So sorry!!!

Hugs

Diana

[Emily]

I'm so sorry to hear about your puppy, it's so hard losing a pet. The time we get to spend with them never seems long enough. Just remember that she's in a better place now free of pain and illness. You took care of her and loved her every single day, she wouldn't want you to feel bad because she was gone. She knows you loved her a much as possible and that she couldn't have asked for a better life than the one she had with you.

[Georgene Lockwood]

My heart breaks for you. I cuddle my 15 year old kittie Lily and keep hoping for years and years. We love them and let them go. But I truly believe there IS a rainbow bridge for all of us.

[Stephanie Gentry]

Deryn, I'm so sorry for the loss of your beloved pup. She's a precious one, that Maggie! Blessings to you, from one dog lover to another.
~Stephanie

[Laura Lang]

Oh, your Maggie is so very sweet. I told my dog-in-heaven Lily, to be nice and play with your Maggie.

[Carol Bass]

So, so sorry for your loss, Deryn. Our pets are truly part of our families. I know she will be missed.

[KJ]

ahh... I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are such great friends and comforts.

[Connie]

As surely as she breathes the life which comes from the breath of the father........ She lives again. Trust in the cycle of life.

[susanc]

I am so sorry for your loss Deryn. xxx

[cynthia wolff]

SO VERY, very sorry to hear of your loss.

[cara letho]

Deryn- from a person who lives with 4 dogs- each an individual and full of personality- my thoughts are with you
cara

[Alette Siri Ane]

She is on the other side,sitting right next to you.So sorry .

[Lelainia]

Oh Deryn, I am so sorry you lost your fur kid. I can't even imagine how your heart must ache with missing her. *hugs*

[Hilary Frye]

Oh my. I am so sorry to hear this. Poor Miss Maggie. Hugs and special prayers, Deryn. I'll be thinking of you. X

[Cecile]

Oh, Deryn, I'm so sorry to learn of Miss Maggie!!! I remember that earlier photo with her rainbow snout! She looks so sweet!! My hear goes out to you!!!

Cecile

[Cindy]

Deryn, I am so terribly sorry and so sad to hear about your dear Maggie. I have tears in my eyes thinking about your loss, your sweet one is just adorable - just look at those eyes! She reminds me of our Westie that we lost almost 2 years ago. 2011 was a hard one of for us too as we lost our ShihTzu in August, so I know just what a big loss this is...losing a family member. My heart goes out to you, Deryn. Your Maggie is most certainly waiting and in the mean time, I know you have a heart full of wonderful memories that will always hold her close.

[Tesori Trovati]

Oh, dear. That is sad. I loved to see pictures of your sweet pup. But you gave her the best life possible. My heart is heavy for you. There is a book, a children's book by Cynthia Rylant called Dog Heaven. See if you can get a copy of it. It helped me immensely when my Madison schnauzer died. It is exactly as you think, with the fluffy clouds being the pillows the dogs lay down on, chasing ducks and eating table scraps from the angels. Check it out. Hugs to you, dear Deryn.
Find your 'something good' today.
Erin

[Riki Schumacher]

I am so sorry Deryn. I can feel the pain, the hardest thing to loose in life has been my sweet boy. I hope your pain won't last too long, and the memories you are left with are all good. Sending a big hug. Riki

[Tammie Moore]

My heart goes out to you. I know loosing a pet is like loosing your constant companion. May your heart be comforted.
Creatively
Tammie Moore

[Francy]

oh so such sad news. hugs. so very sad when we no longer have our fur baby by us.

Her tail will be wagging when she sees you again!

[Danee]

I am so sorry. I lost my beloved Shelby 2 days after my father's funeral…that was 5 years ago and I am only now over the trauma. and thinking of getting a puppy. It wasn't even the death itself as much as the fear, worry, concern, gut wrenching pain of watching her get worse and wondering if I should have her put down. Was the time right? WAs it too early? Was she bad enough? Was she suffering? How much pain is too much? It was draining and painful and horrible and has taken me a long time to get over. When my first dog, Kalla, died 10 years ago- the weekend we were house hunting (she died at the kennel) I still had Shelby and it was difficult and I cried a lot, but it wasn't as hard. Maybe it was because I had another dog? Maybe because I was moving 2 weeks later? Maybe because my father hadn't just died? I just don't know.

Pets are part of our families and they give us so much companionship and love….unconditional love…well unconditional as long as we feed them. I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and have spent time with a lot of toddlers and I truly believe dogs think and act similar to toddlers. They do the same things, they think the same way…they are really at the same stage of development. They have the same unbridled enthusiasm for life, the innocence, the joy of the simple things they love to do. They both LOVE to cuddle and love unconditionally. Your sweet Maggie is running around, playing, eating paint covered somethings- blue is her favorite, and reflecting on her terrific life as your best friend.

[The Crazier Sister]

I'm so sorry. I know how you feel having lost my furry love a little over a year ago. I'm sure the two of them are barking at squirrels, sniffing noses (and butts) and generally causing doggie mayhem as they wait to see us again. My sympathies to you as you work thru this time.

[gayle]

So sorry...............
I think there is definately a special place for terriers, where they can chase and dig to their hearts content.

[Susan from Williamsburg, Va.]

Oh My Deryn,...My heart hurts for you. Losing a beloved pet is the same as the loss of a family member for sure. We have had multiples (16) of dogs (all pets) at one time and have been very fortunate in having them live to an elderly age. Through all these years I can still remember our first loss as well as all the others. I try not to think of their very last days because it is too painful even today. They were all house dogs (mostly Goldens). t was never easy,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, but I try to think of only the delightful silliness, funny incidents as well as the trouble and mischief they got into all those many years. What a gift they all have given our family. I now have 3 elderly Goldens who are about 1 1/2 years apart in age from each other and I am already getting nervous over each of their aches and pains that I see. I hope it is nothing serious of course. I even have 3 children that are veterinarians who I realize can't always make magic happen to extend their lives.

You must dwell on how lucky your dog was to be in your very happy home. You gave him that gift as well as his gift to you. I'm so sorry about your broken heart. It hurts so much because you are such a good lady. He was a very lucky boy. I thank God for letting me experience the love of beloved pets. He creates many wonderful experiences for us doesn't he. Take a deep breath my friend. I send my love to you. Susan from Williamsburg.

[Molly Alexander]

Deryn, I am so sorry about losing your precious Maggie. There isn't anything I can say that will make up for your loss, but please know that I will be thinking of you and your family.

[Laurie Hunt]

I am so sorry for your loss. I've been there. I have cried. Some people don't get it. I do. Memories.

[Cynthia @ Ornamental Style]

I'm so sorry to hear about Maggie. It's amazing how animals can capture our hearts. Hold tight to the joy she brought you.

[Carolyn Mallin]

My heart is breaking for you Deryn. I'm sure that Maggie will be at the Rainbow Bridge waiting for you. Give yourself plenty of time to feel better. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Remember to think of the good times you had with her.
Hugs,
Carolyn

[jeanette]

Oh no, oh no, how heart breaking! I know exactly how you are feeling...your heart is completely broken...Maggie looks like a Wheaten-at least I can tell she is a terrier. My soft coated wheaten terrier passed away on Mother's day but couldn't write about it, thought I would never stop crying. I am so sorry, Deryn. We just got a new Wheaten puppy last week who is very sweet, but some sadness has resurfaced because we still miss our sweet Cabby. Ugh, it's been a tough year...I am so sorry about your loss...

[eydie]

Deryn,

My heart goes out to you. I do understand the love and loyalty our furry friends bring to our lives.

Please know that if Maggie was suffer, she is in a much better place.
I’m sending you love and light.
Eydie

[Patti Vanderbloemen]

My heart goes out to you....I lost one of my "best friends" less than 2 years ago. I still think of her every day. However, what gets me through the tough times is knowing that I gave her the BEST LIFE POSSIBLE and I don't think...I KNOW she is waiting for me. In the meantime, she is running, playing, and feasting!

[Hope Amen]

I am so sorry for the loss of your Maggie. Sending healing prayers your way.

[Katrina]

Sweet, smart, naughty little face. What a wonderful friend she was to you. I never get over missing my fur babies who have gone, but they each left me with so many memories of fun and laughter. I know it's the same for you. I send my love and sympathy to you as you recover from this sadness.

[Shuku]

Oh Deryn, I'm so so sorry to hear that. Many hugs, and I am sure she is wagging her tail and waiting for you, whiskers all covered in blue chalk.