March 27, 2014

White Dog asked me afterward, "Are you sure you did not offend our heart family by laughing during their time grief?" Just recently they had lost Prinnie, White Dog's BFF, suddenly and unexpected as she was diagnosed with IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia-- a condition where the immune system destroys its own red blood cells) and then plummeted down a steep slope of complications that took her life too soon. Our friends were unprepared and devastated...they still are struggling mightily to deal with their loss and pain.

Prinnie was one of our first and best friends in the Blog community. Through her and WD's blog friendship, both families became tied together at the heart strings. We met in person for the first time when they drove from California to take part in Steve's and my recommitment ceremony in 2009.

Tonight's phone call was a result of a photo we had sent in honor of White Dog's diva equal. It was from that wonderful weekend of the ceremony...an event filled with amazing memories, great moments, and soul dancing laughs. They had called to say "thank you," but we ended up talking about life and the connection, and the timelessness of love.

We laughed at their bossy rescue girl filled with attitude giving the resident standard poodle whatfor. There were chuckles all around as we described stories of "Moo" strutting her stuff and giving orders to all in attendance, side-by-side with White Dog.

"No, Little One," I said in answer to White Dog's question. "I do not think we offended. I believe that our ability to find the joy of Prinnie's life even when the ache is still raw and new gives honor to your BFF. Even now she is full of sass and character. To be reminded of that is a good thing and I know she is looking down wagging in delight to see her mom and mommy laugh."

White Dog laid her head on my shoulder. "I miss her, momma. She truly understood me." I kissed WD on the nose. "Admit it, the two of you standing at each end of the hallway both shouting orders at poor Digby until he didn't know what to do and just laid down WAS pretty fun!" "Especially," White Dog snorted, "when he let his sister just take the treat right out of his mouth. His expression was priceless. That girl was THE Boss!"

Be your sassy best, Prinnie! Now that you are forever young and healthy, you whip those pups at the Bridge into disciplined shape! Don't hold back; tell them what is on your mind. Thinking about it will make us all smile.