Ali,

Thank you so much for that post. To see my Walter’s face, to know that we had such a beautiful life wish for him – and for ourselves. To know that he lived every day of his life with us with a wish for nothing more than snuggles, a nap, and as many Buddy Biscuits as we’d give him!

It hurts. Unbearably. And I wouldn’t trade it for the world. There were those I told of his passing who told me that I’d signed-on for this grief when I adopted an older dog. Sure, they’re right (though I don’t know that I appreciated their words!). However, I will sign-on for that pain over and over again because it is just a small fraction of the utter joy he brought to us. Not a death wish, a life wish. Not anticipating the grief but basking in the sweet joy.

There are still no words adequate. Nothing to express how wholly, how purely I loved that little guy. Not even one year, not even long enough to celebrate his birthday, yet I find myself celebrating every memory of every day he brought to us.

I was blessed to hold him each and every day he was in our home and I held him tearfully, sorrowfully, and just as willingly in those final moments. I pray deeply that he knows of this love still. I think he does. I think he’s sending me back that love, as I find a piece of his fur clinging to my black work pants, a biscuit on the floor that he didn’t manage to get every crumb of, and even as I keep my eyes open for the next one to warm my sofa. He wants me to be happy and he knows how hard we will try to make every Mutt just as happy.

Thank you, Ali. Thank you Sherri and Muttville. Thank you Jason, my husband, for getting through this painful week with me.

Thank you, Walter.

~Melissa

05.17.10 01:19pm | commenting on A life wish

Oh, Ali – beautiful!

04.26.10 06:57am | commenting on He's not sensitive - he's an artist

It was Goofy’s picture that led me to Muttville more than a year ago. While searching for our perfect addition, his sweet face appeared over and over again but we just weren’t ready. Thankfully, when we were ready, Goofy and his friends at Muttville found Walter for us.

We had the chance to meet Goofy when we took Walter to the Halloween event on the Embarcadero. Such a sweet face, kind spirit, and a perfect ambassador for the organization. Honestly, it meant a great deal to me to cross paths with Goofy.

Your spirit will live on and many more Mutts will benefit because of your story.

11.26.09 08:22am | commenting on Today we will honor Goofy's life.....