Shotzi...I just wanted to let you know, I have been thinking lately about what you said here

"God gave us those emotions for a reason - so don't feel bad about them - when I find myself getting upset about my Nik - I just imagine her being in heaven and running through fields and having a smile on her face chasing the other dogs - then my crying will start ringing in her ears - and Niki could never have stood that! And she would be pulled aside from her fun in heaven - to worry about me all over again and I don't want that - I want her to enjoy her rewards!"

Whenever I start to get TOO upset..not quite hysterical, but close, I try to imagine Shina stopping what she is doing to listen for me...
As soon as I calm down again, I imagine her....giving me "the look" that she is okay and not to worry... and see her running off again.
Im not sure I explained the scenario in my mind as I wanted it to be here, but Im trying to let her have the peace you spoke about. I imagine that my crying out interrupts her where she is now, and I just want her to be happy. I guess its just a little excercise in letting go... but Im not quite sure Ive mastered it....