I ask that you not grieve for the loss, but rejoice in the fact that we lived, loved and touched each others lives. My life was fuller because you were there, not as a master/owner, but as my FRIEND.

 Today I am as I was in my youth. The grass is always green, butterflies flit among the flowers and the Sun shines gently down upon all of God's creatures.
I can run, jump, play and do all of the things that I did in my youth. There is no sickness, no aching joints and no regrets and no aging.

We await the arrival of our lifelong companions and know that togetherness is forever.
You live in our hearts as we do in yours. Companions such as you are so rare and unique.
Don't hold the love that you have within yourself. Give it to another like me and then I will live forever. For love never really dies, and you are loved and missed as surely as we are.

Candy

"Baby Girl"
1984-1999

Lucy

"Moose"
1988-2004

Special Friend

I lost a special friend today  
the kind you can't replace,  
and looking at her empty bed  
I still can see her face.

I see the endless energy  
the sparkling puppy eyes,  
Not the tired, fragile friend  
I had to bid goodbye.

I know she's in a special place  
our Lord has for such friends,  
Where meadows, fields & flowers  
help make them strong and whole again.

I remember how she'd run to me  
to play her favorite puppy game,  
And how her ears would perk right up  
When she heard me call her name.

But as those precious years went by  
And we both aged and grew,  
I'd find her often slowing down  
But-we had still so much to do.

Easter stands out in my mind  
As she would always find the eggs,  
The kids would have their baskets full  
And she'd be there to beg.

Then there was the Christmas tree  
with lots of candy canes,  
As she devoured all she could  
Surely, hoping it'd still look the same!

She did her guard dog duty well  
Each time the doorbell rang,  
Strangers surely couldn't see  
My gentle friend--behind those fangs.

I've noticed in the recent times  
Her ears were not as sharp,  
Where is that running ball of fur  
The years have shown their mark.

She started sleeping next to me  
Was this her special clue,  
Because she felt the end was near  
I only wish I knew.

My Candy was a special dog  
I know she gave her best,  
But as I looked deep into her eyes  
I knew it was time, for her to rest.

It will truely be a struggle  
I don't know how I'll face each day,  
I have to let her go--I know  
But in my heart she'll always stay.

This special place our Lord has made  
Health and strength, wait for her there,  
So with my very special friend  
I'm sending all my prayers.

I know she's watching over me  
She'll be with me when I cry,  
So with one more kiss on her beloved head  
I told my Candy Dog goodbye.

By Christina L. Tronnes for my beautiful Cocker Spaniel Candy.