Saying goodbye

We said goodbye to our pup Brody Lynn on July 25, 2013.

She was our baby. She was our first. She was a great dog.

Brody lived nine great years. Brody loved to run, play catch (but she did not want to give the ball back), swim in the lake, lay and watch the "nature channel" out of our big front window, she loved to be where we were...inside or out. She preferred a soft sleeping spot and she took her time fluffing the pillow or blankets and spinning around until her spot was just how she liked it. She could open the doors in our house by pushing on the door handles. She was protective of all of us. She loved peanut butter, ice cream, dog treats and standing under the high chair to catch all tossed away food. She loved to go on walks and got mad if we did not take her. She loved to go for car rides and put her head out the window. She let me cry on her when I was sad. She laid by my side when I was sick or in pain.
Lydia and Brody had a special bond and were the best of friends. Brody liked to sleep in Lydia's room and also stayed downstairs with Lydia when she was played. She let Lydia dress her up, put necklaces on and lay all over her.
She showed us how resilient and strong she really was toward the end. She still followed me around the house and got excited to see us. That was a blessing because I don't think I could have watched her deteriorate much more.

Feeding Allie this morning, I realized that I didn't have to lock her up...we both just stood there confused about the situation. After Allie comes down the stairs, I wait to hear the second set of paws come down the stairs. Only letting one dog out is very strange. There will be so many moments like this in the days to come; moments when I think of Brody and remember her.

Today, this hymn is running through my mind and I am grateful for the comfort that it is giving me.
v. 1 Each life that touches ours for good
Reflects thine own great mercy Lord;
Thou sendest blessings from above
Thru words and deeds of those who love.

v. 3 When such a friend from us departs,
We hold forever in our hearts
A sweet and hallowed memory,
Bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee.
(LDS Hymnal p. 293)