We Had to put him to sleep

[Rachel]

Remember:

We always have the power within ourselves to get back home.

This is so true, even when it comes to the deep grief experienced with the loss of a companion. When I was at my worst, I knew I needed to stop crying so frequently. In an effort to limit this, I allowed myself to cry and think about my pain of losing Tizzie (my last RB girl) when I was taking a bath. I would sob and sob alone in that bathtub where my tears mingled with the warm bath water. I do admit that some days I purposely took more than one bath, but it allowed me my grief yet forced me to not sink deeper and deeper into a depression at other times. Of course I would think about Tizzie at other times, but I *changed the subject* in my mind when I did. I know this is not a plan that is for everyone, but I just had to work my way out of the black hole.

What was difficult too was being able to remember Tizzie during her healthy years. She suffered during her old age from various ailments, including dementia. Even though most of her life she was a happy, healthy dog, those ailing years were so difficult for her and for me to see her that way. It took a long, long time before memories of the good years would return.

Thinking of all of you, Rob, Diane, Dorothy, Sue, Logan, and others who have posted here.

[Sudilar]

I would sob and sob alone in that bathtub where my tears mingled with the warm bath water.

Oh Rachel, how true. The shower is also a great place to cry. Waterproof make-up (for those sudden breakdowns during the day) works, too. (Not for you,Bob..LOL) I also would find myself crying on walks while taking the standard path of our past dog walks. Ahh, it is so hard when we lose them, but then I think of how blessed I was to have them in my lifetime. The pain in their passing is as great as the love we have for them. I count on seeing them at Rainbow Bridge, because how can there be a heaven without them? Big group hugs today!!!!