Remembering My Bailey

A few weeks ago, my granddaughter Shaelyn and Grandson Kael,

had to say goodbye to their Best Friend Bailey. Bailey was a

Miniature American Eskimo Spitz who had been in their lives since

before Shaelyn was born. Shaelyn will be 14 in April. My daughter

Shauna called me on her cell phone and had it on 'speaker' when

she broke the news to me. Shaelyn was quietly crying. I think this

was one of the most difficult phone calls I have ever received. I

knew too well the loss felt when you loose a Pet and here was my

Granddaughter sharing the news that had been eminent for the last

six months. While Shauna and the children knew that Bailey was

very old and had little time left - they could never, ever, be ready for

this kind of news. I stumbled with my words, wanting so badly to say

something that could comfort them, but there are moments when

words just do little. They knew I shared in their Grief and I hoped it

would be of some solace. Later on, I suggested Shaelyn gather all

the photos she had of Bailey and put them in a Scrapbook. In this

book of Dedication she could also write down some of the favorite

moments she shared with her beloved dog. I hoped if she focused

her thoughts on this positive task, perhaps her pain might just ease a

bit. Then, when moments of sadness crept in, she and Kael would

be able to sit and focus on the cherished memories they had so

lovingly placed between the covers of their Scrapbook. This is the

most recent image that I have done for Shaelyn. I hope they both

hold tight to the reality of the Unconditional Love that only a Pet can

share with us.

Sweet.

Unquestionably a memorial that will always bring back fond memories along with a tear to the eye. Very well composed and very well done!!

So sorry to hear about Baily, Gail! Losing a beloved pet is one of the most difficult things in life. I really like the memorial you created in this image. It shows a lot of warmth and love! Warm regards to you and to Shaelyn. Rob

many thanks Robert. I appreciate your thoughts shared.  We never want to see our children or grandchildren so sad, but I suppose this is the beginning of many losses that they will experience along life's journey.  It is inevitable and how we learn to cope - but never an easy time at all.

No doubt, being a Vet, you have experienced every aspect of people grieving for their pets. Then I could take it further - there must be a 'grief' you feel for your clients.  I really enjoy watching the TV Series 'Dr. Pol'.  It sure is a learning experience watching a Vet who has farm animals as 'clients' as well. I am always moved by his compassion for his clients who loose any of their animals, big and small.

Thanks Chuck, I do appreciate you taking the time to drop by.

Hi Gail,

  I am so sorry about Bailey.  I know how hard it is to give up a special dog.  Beautiful image & tribute.  Take care, Patsy

A most lovely memorial!

-r-

Putting together a scrap book was a great suggestion and your collage would look great as a cover!

Many thanks for your visit Patsy.  Shauna and the children are still quite broken hearted about Bailey.  I knew you would understand how they felt.

Thanks so much Kathy, I felt rather helpless when they first told me - I live about an hour away from them.

Thank you so much Raymond for those encouraging words!

Another excellent " card " montage ! Bill

Thank you Bill. So happy to hear you enjoyed this one.

you're amazing at putting these things together.  best, jamie

Yes, I agree!  The way you combine various elements to make these works of art just amazes me!  Beautiful and a touching tribute!

My sincere appreciation for the encouragement - glad you enjoyed this tribute.