Goodbye Jag

While saying at Jodi's house I had the pleasure of meeting Jag.  

Jag owned a large piece of Jodi's heart.  
Her Heart~Dog.

Jag grew up with her son Justin. He was with them both through thick and thin.  

 (Above Photo Shot by Jodi Darling)

He was at their side as life changed...always a constant, 

a protector...an anchor in the tumultuous motions of life.

We love all of our dogs but then... there is the One.

One that you will see every night when you close your eyes.  

The One that touches your heart in a special way. 

(Above photo shot by Jodi Darling)

Memories linger, years later, of their fur under your fingers, the feel of their breath on your cheek. 

The One that leaves an abyss vacant in your heart when they go. 

A friend, companion, partner.

 (Above picture shot by Jodi Darling)

Shortly after I left Idaho Jodi and Justin made the painful decision to let Jag go. 

A wrenching, painful decision... born in love.  

Goodbye Jag.  

 I am blessed to have met you, if only so brief. 

December, 1998 - July 14, 2010

I am Always With You

When I am gone, release me, let me go.

I have so many things to see and do,
You mustn't tie yourself to me with too many tears,

But be thankful we had so many good years.

I gave you my love, and you can only guess
How much you've given me in happiness.

I thank you for the love that you have shown,
But now it is time I traveled on alone.

So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
That it is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away for life goes on.

And if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I will be near
And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear
All my love around you soft and clear

And then, when you come this way alone,
I'll greet you with a smile and a "Welcome Home".

~Emily Dickinson~