Hello, old friends and new.

It's been a while since I've been here. I always feel guilty for being away, but I've needed the respite from tears, grief and loss. I'm sure you know how that goes.

This truly is one of the most wonderful and special sites in cyberspace, though. I've never found anything other than love, support, and comfort here, and I challenge anyone to find a finer group of people anywhere. (And that is the reason I always come back!)

Today, I finally get to share some good news: we've just arranged to adopt a new puppy!

She's just a baby -- only 2 weeks old, so we've got to wait a while before we can bring her home. She's a miniature cream-colored long-haired dachshund, from a line especially bred for their sweet, gentle nature. We haven't even been able to hold her yet, but we're already as giddy as a new parent could be!

Thanks again to everyone here who helped me through my times of grief. I hope those who are going through pain and loss today will be able to take home from this: eventually, in its own time, the grief becomes bearable and you'll find yourself ready to risk falling in love again.


Love and blessings to you all,

-- Daryl

Dear Daryl,

I'm so glad you're ready to open your heart again. It is a special feeling to bring a breath of new life into your home. Since Shiloh's passing I've actaully adopted 2 new dogs. I didn't go out looking for them, they found me...both were abandoned on the side of the road. The first was a 3 year old momma dog who'd been dumped without her puppies. The second was a 6 week old puppy that was dumped on the side of the road with his brother. Both have brought a great deal of love to my life. I still miss my Shiloh, but I feel very fortunate to have these 2 new furbabies.

Congratulations on your new arrival!
Kathleen

Kathleen,

Thanks for the congratulations -- and congratulations to you on your two rescued furbabies! I think there's something especially good in knowing that you've saved and given a loving home to a stray who someone else abused or neglected.

It is good to be getting back into the "young life in the house" mode.

If only we could bring the new little one home NOW!


-- Daryl

Hi Daryl, I am so happy that you are getting a new baby. I love the long haired dachshunds. My daughter has one that is getting pretty old now and she has always been a real joy. Good luck on your new precious baby. Have you named her yet?
Ann

Hi Ann!

We're getting pretty eager for the new baby to come home with us, that's for sure. We're currently thinking of calling her "Sasha". It seems we've both always liked that name, and I think it might fit this one.

I'll try to get some pictures posted eventually.


-- Daryl

In the midst of my sorrow God has reached out to me and sent a new addition to my home as well, it is an 8 year old American Short Hair - Black - lovely green eyees and a white spot on her chest ~ the owner was at the Humane Society where I volunteer ~ dropping it off amid a sea of tears and sobs as she was being forced to move and could not find an appartment that took cats - this sweet thing has never been outside and always was in a quiet home where she could sleep and watch the birds and get an occaisional pet from her "Mom" How wonderful for me that I have the Master Suite where she will fit right in ~ I also feel Amber's approving gaze ~ I know you may wonder how I can feel a gaze ~ But this is how we "communicate now ~ on the feeling level ~ so true ~ Please know that I am so grateful for everyones encouragement and pray that you are having the same recovery of hope ~ My days are often still filled with sadness and bittersweet memories - weeping and just missing her so ....she will always be there now ~ sending me thoughts and gazes and paw touches ~ Just wanted to send this news ~ and say thanks for everything ~ we heal and grow stronger together it seems ~ Sincerely, Kathryn

Dear Kathryn,

I had tears in my eyes as I read your post. I can't help but think that little Amber had a paw in your crossing the path of this little 8 year old kitty. What a lucky day for all of you!

As I posted in this thread several weeks ago, I now have 2 new dogs that are just wonderful. I still have days when I miss Shiloh more than words can describe, but I know she'd want me to open my heart to other furbabies.

I wish you and the new kitty the best of luck. Keep us posted.
Kathleen

News About Samantha Pearl ~ My new black kitty is named Samantha Pearl ~ she has adjusted wonderfully to life in the Master Bedroom suite and has provided a way for me to return there to sleep once more ~ It is a very large room with sunlight and outdoor views ~ she has all the comforts a kitty needs ~ and I am blessed in that I believe that I felt Amber jump up on the bed last night to validate my decision. I never thought I could go back in that room ever again except to meditate or mourn ~ (The Master Suite is a large room - with a walk in closet and bathroom ) ~ I love animals and little Samantha will be treated so well and loved ~ I hope she will be as happy there as Amber was over the years ~ she is truly a Pearl to me as she has gifted me with a way back to this part of my life ~ the journey is bittersweet as I begin to renew old feelings along with the new ones with Samantha ~ its a little frightening ~ with Ambie I always felt so safe there ~ now things are old and new at the same time ~ I hope things will eventually smooth out ~ THANK YOU for your kind words and caring ~ It means alot to me these days ~ Sincerely, Kathryn