Unleashed at last....

This isn't exactly the news I had hoped to be sharing when I started this blog, but I believe it is an important part of our family's journey.  Three days ago, we had to make the (very difficult) decision to let go of our chocolate-boy Bud.  He gave us a very clear sign that he was ready to go.  Bless his heart for being able to show us, and thank God for helping us to recognize that it was time.  Although it probably goes without saying, losing him has been very difficult.  I can't remember the last time I cried this much.  (Well, I can, but I don't like to recall those moments... Luckily I haven't experienced too many of them in my lifetime!)  As much as we miss the jingle of his collar around the house, we are comforted knowing that he is not suffering.  He's probably running around with a renewed vitality, enjoying all the popcorn he can get his sloppy tongue on.  These thoughts have brought us peace.  We know he is exactly where he is supposed to be.  Unleashed, at last :)

So, where does this leave us?  Bud's absence has definitely changed the dynamic around here.  He was just one dog, but he had a HUGE presence in our home.  Everytime we turned around, he was right there - just wanting to be near us.  It will take some getting used to, that's for sure.  Poor Riley isn't sure what to think.  She hasn't known life without her Bud.  We worry about her being lonely, but have decided not to get another dog right now.  The timing just doesn't seem right.  I've heard it said that God must take a life each time he creates a new one.... we can only hope this loss means that His plan to grow our family has been set in motion.  Perhaps the news will come soon - maybe our baby is on its way.  It's hard to say.  For now, we will just face each day as it comes, enjoying our new life as a family of three. 

Bud, we miss you and will love you always.  Riley says she'll see you again someday at the top of the stairs...