Black Dog Sunday

After years of waiting to "know" where to bury our dogs' ashes, we finally did it. After moving to Labrador Valley, we both fell in love with a side valley that has a lone pine tree in the midst of aspen groves. That pine tree is a Ponderosa. It stands tall and strong, leaning and bending with the west wind but still flourishing. It is a testament to the power of life.

Here is a view of it from lower down in the valley. It's in the middle of the photo almost at the top of the valley.

We decided to bury the ashes of the dogs who came before Shyla and Hachi at the base of that
beautiful pine tree. Here's a closer view of it.

It is a peaceful oasis to serve as a final resting place. We waited for decades to choose a spot so you can imagine how special we think that Lone Ponderosa is. We go through the Lone Ponderosa's valley almost every day so we'll feel as if our departed pups are part of our new life here.

Because our Black Dog's death was recent, it was especially hard to say a final goodbye to him. But we know that his ashes belong out in nature, where they can become part of the cycle of life.

Our Black Dog sprinting like the wind across a mesa

Rest in Peace sweet dogs. We wish that all of you could have been alive for this chapter of our lives. But, we are comforted that we have your ashes here with us in a glorious spot.

Our Black Dog would want all of us to find a reason to smile today. I am smiling at his memory with eyes full of tears.