It takes time to build a bond of love with a dog. It's especially tricky when your last dog was a heart dog.
Over this past week, it's hit me quite suddenly that Shyla has become part of me. When she looks in my eyes, I utter those magic words, "I love you", without even thinking.
Together, we've fought our demons. Shyla's demons are all the peculiar aspects of normal human life that can terrify her. Mine are many - but she's helped me to begin to heal from losing K. Together, we are emerging from the shadows and finding our way.
When I spotted this view today, it reminded me of hope superimposed on cold reality. I love the juxtaposition of the swelling aspen buds and the snowy mountains. It's like the overlapping of my growing love for Shyla and the gradual healing of my heart from losing my K.
I feel lucky.
Bonds of love like this can never be broken. Not K's and Not Shyla's.
ReplyDeleteAnd what a wonderful action shot of Shyla leaping over that big stick.
Blessings,
Goose
Beautiful photos, and you have had and have now bonds that are forever.Healing is not a quick fix, and grief, like an illness, takes time to resolve. Have faith, in yourself, in Shyla, in the days ahead.springtime is on its way,for you, and we are in autumn now, with leaves turning yellow/gold each day. Fond greetings, Jean.
ReplyDeleteI felt much the same way as I got to know Bunny! I'm glad Shyla is bringing out the best in you!
ReplyDeleteShe is a real beauty and you are helping her develop a wonderful personality.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you feel lucky!
Cheers and hugs,
Jo
What a beautiful realization. I am going through much of the same feelings with Bert and Jamie.
ReplyDeleteBert's My Vickie
Today you made momma's heart sing and the WDA howl with joy for you both.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post. Truly.
ReplyDeleteYour words of love said it all.
ReplyDeleteYou put it into words so beautifully. Isn't it something how suddenly the realization hits you? I went through something similar with our Azule. All of a sudden, wow, she's so amazing. Rest assured, they all are but there is that little something extra.
ReplyDeleteHaving a good companion like our beloved dogs it make us feel great everyday, they are such a great blessings from God. I'm sure K and Shyla are so blessed to have a friend like you.
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Petsafe
Bless you both <3
ReplyDeleteYour post really brought out the importance of not cutting oneself off from love when one has lost a great love.Too many people sadly refuse to get another dog, or cat, or horse, after the "one" is gone. You are a shining example of the joy that can return, even if under a different guise.
ReplyDeleteFrom across The RB, I can sense K's smile and agreement!
ReplyDeleteI think each dog has a special place in your heart and we are lucky we can continue to carry them, even when they are no longer with us.
ReplyDeleteShyla is one special girl
ReplyDeleteBenny & Lily
You inspire us to look at life with a open heart for all that nature has to show us.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures.
xo Cinnamon and Linda
You are right about building the bond after losing a heart dog. The shoes are so big to fill. Wilson had that burden, poor boy. It pretty much took a combo of both boys to fill the void of Dylan.
ReplyDeleteYou're an amazing person - and what you say is true about the healing process.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful heart-lifting post.
Nadine & goldens Neeli & Elle
I've always thought we can have many heart dogs, and all for different reasons.
ReplyDeleteSam
Well said. Love these pics - and love hearing about Shyla and how your bond with her grows each day. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat about you two....
ReplyDeleteLovely view in the last picture
Hi, I understand exactly what you mean-I didn't think I'd ever get over my Sadie but then Hunter found his way into my heart. Small dogs are so different but they all have unconditional love for us. Thanks for sharing KB!
ReplyDeleteHugs, Noreen
I've seen Shyla's admiration of you grow through your beautiful portraits of her since about the second week. And watching how well she learns all the little tricks you teach her... she wouldn't be so cooperative if your hearts weren't intertwining.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post and sentiment.
ReplyDeleteWe are traveling a similar path - my Beau was my heart dog. Sometimes I feel bad saying that, like it's a slight to Bella and that she deserves so much more. But it is true - Beau was my once in a lifetime dog.
I have come to understand however, that that doesn't mean Bella is anything less. She has been an amazing journey, a dog that has taught me more than I ever thought possible - about dogs, about life, about myself.
I'm happy you've started to find your bond with Shyla. She's beautiful and you are doing so well by her. You may find one day that, despite all her 'problems', maybe in fact because of them, you will end up learning more from having her in your life than you ever imagined.
to you.
I know the bond will grow bigger and bigger!
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tweedles
Beautifully said KB!
ReplyDeleteYou two were meant to be together :)
Hugs,
Lily Belle & Muffin
That bascule shot is phenomenal!
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