MOMMY'S MONDAY

MAX- JUNE 2003 - SEPTEMBER 2009

I am a walking country song right now. I lost my job, then I lost my dog. Thank goodness my husbands faithfulness is only 2nd to my Lord's. Warning... get the tissues out before reading any further.

Friday I was laid off from my job. However, most of you can understand, it was NOTHING compared to the breaking of my heart knowing Max's time was coming soon. So I know it was a blessing from God to allow me time to mourn my sweet baby, where work would not have allowed such a thing (not paid, at least). So Saturday the whole pack went for a short walk together. Then Sunday morning, out of routine, I decided to do a short sniff just in the front yards of neighbors. Max's back legs seemed to be weaker and he almost fell when stepping down 2 porch steps. And they shook the whole time we were out. Of course that dang tail never stopped wagging. As I watched him the rest of the day he kept panting, which the internet says can be sign of pain. Then he has been going off to his safe place to sleep by himself, even during the day when we are all around. Doing the best to understand, I have to take that as his way of telling me, it is time.

This morning I took him for our regular sniffies. A little slower. Then I allowed him to cross the bridge with me again. Of course that brought plenty of tears, which Max didnt understand. We got a chance to lay down together and I loved him as if there were no tomorrow-- knowing there was NO tomorrow!

Later today we took him together to cross Rainbow Bridge. We were able to lay down with him and pet and hold him the whole time and tell him to watch for us to come join him someday. So it is with a broken heart that I will now say... Good bye Max. I love and miss you so much!

Love Mama!!!

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... Author unknown...