Another Sad Goodbye....And A Sweet Hello...

My mom's dog Teddy has been a part of our lives for about 15 years. He was a rescue Mom picked at our local shelter when she was looking for a smaller dog to keep my grandma company after losing her sweet little yorkie. There was just something about this little boy that spoke to Mom as she was looking in each kennel. If I remember right, she took him to the groomer before bringing him home because nobody could really tell what he was at that point....he looked like a teddy bear; hence his name, Teddy. 

I'm not sure if Tess remembers a time before Teddy, but I know my younger three do not. He was not exactly a playmate, but he loved their attention...especially when they would sneak him some treats. I'm sure they would all say they remember him being Mamo's constant companion. He was always by her side or on her lap. She would sit him on her scooter and take him around the yard. And, when she was still able to walk with the assistance of a walker, she'd set him on the fold down seat of that walker and they'd walk everywhere around the house and yard, tossing out bread crumbs for the birds and squirrels. Teddy was a part of our family and we all loved him dearly....but yesterday, we had to say goodbye. 

We have known the time was near. He was well over 16 years old, after all.  But, that doesn't mean it was any easier. He'd been declining over the past year, rapidly over this spring and summer. He made it clear yesterday that he was ready to make his final journey across the rainbow bridge. We prayed over him, thanking God for blessing us with him for so many years, we told him what a good boy he was and how he'd done such a good job. We told him that it was okay for him to close his eyes and rest, knowing he'd open them again and see Mamo waiting for him. And then...he was gone. 

The emptiness and loneliness was overwhelming for Mom. It occurred to her that for the very first time ever, she had nobody to take care of. It was a very empty feeling. I'd already been giving thought to her next companion, unbeknownst to her. And, I'd talked with a dear friend about it earlier while the girls were taking care of Wendy Loo and Mom was enjoying looking at all the horses. Another dog was pretty much out of the question...winter (translated into snowy and icy) is not an easy time for Mom and walking a dog 2-3 times a day was a worry for Craig and I. We did not want to chance her falling. I suggested a cat. I had in mind a full grown cat; one who loves snuggles and someone to talk to him...but Mom was thinking more along the lines of a little one that could grow a close bond with her as she grows up. I had that one covered as well 😉

Back out to the barn we went, to meet little Miss Pearyle. The petite little girl of the last litter, Goodles (the way too "easy" mama cat at the barn) had. It was an instant match:)  Mom was taking her home. Hannah and Gracie suggested Joy for her middle name which not only suit her perfectly, but also seemed perfect for her new role...she was bringing joy back into Mom's days. 

The girls adore Pearyle Joy. They spent the night to "help her transition" to life away from her mama and litter mates. Pretty easy transition since she's the center of attention and already a bit spoiled;). We made a stop at Petco to get some necessities...you know, a pink litter box, litter, scratching post, and TOYS. And once home she settled right in. 

Mom is smiling, laughing even. This little one is living up to her name and has brought joy back. She's been quickly initiated into the world of "baby" which was a bit shocking after so many years with sweet, "old" Teddy, who pretty much slept all the time. We didn't want to say goodbye to such a good boy like Teddy, but we are so thankful to welcome little Pearyle Joy into the family.