Gratitude

Today was difficult. I spent most of the day away from home. As soon as I walked into the house, I crumbled. 14 years of my best friend being excited to see me had ended.

This picture represents my dad and Moose. I bought these for them one Christmas, and they got to open them “together.” Moose wasn’t allowed to have his because he would have eaten it. Lol.

I never considered the thought of losing dad. It’s as if it couldn’t happen. To lose him at all hurts beyond words - to have lost him 2 years before Moose seems surreal.

I told a friend today, “I believe God takes care of the animals too. He created them. He gave them as a gift to us. So I imagine heaven is full of animals, the ones we loved, and our loved ones are getting to love them for us until we meet again.”

I can only imagine the fun dad and Moose are having together.

I prayed and talked to God a lot yesterday. I told Him whatever happened; I would still trust Him.

Today while I was driving to an event, the song “gratitude” came on, and I suddenly had an overwhelming feeling.

I stopped and realized God gave me Moose and 14 incredible years with him! He was never sick. He was spoiled beyond measure and had the best life any dog could hope for.

Even through the tears, I thanked God and told Him how grateful I was for those amazing years and all the memories!

Grateful doesn’t even come close to how I feel about my community and tribe. Today I received countless hugs, calls, texts, comments, and more from the amazing people in my life.

I have felt every prayer. I appreciate all of you beyond measure. I have dreaded this day for a while. To be completely transparent, I didn’t know if I could handle losing Moose. But I firmly believe your love and prayers have gotten me through this hurt.

The healing process can now begin. However, I know God has a plan even in our pain. He has already shown me some things that I’m not quite ready to discuss, but I know this will be part of the story I share.

Psalms 34:18 - The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

1 Chronicles 16:34 - Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.