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Friday, January 16, 2009

Destiny Grace, Jan 11th 1996 - Jan 16th 2009

It is with a heavy heart I write this to all of Destiny's new-found friends. I helped my baby girl Des cross the bridge this morning.

Destiny's spirit remained unshaken - she was a fighter to the end... her spirit was willing, her body was spent.

I gathered close friends of Destiny to my home last night and we had a farewell party. My sister, my neighbors, and Mike were there to pat her, to tell her we loved her, and we watched pictures on a slide show to laugh about good times, and tell stories about our adventures together. I am so grateful the people who made her most comfortable in her last year were able to share that moment with her. She deserved to be honored.

After they left, Destiny had a hard night, and finally... finally... she convinced my heart I was doing right by her. I wont go into details about the night and what she had to endure... but I can tell you one thing - she never gave up. I sat with her all night, stroking her beautiful, soft, white fur, telling her I loved her, and that she added so much to my life. She made me a better human.

Morning came, and I never thought I could do it. I never thought I could carry her into the vet office, lay her down on a bed, and sit with her while she drifted away. But I did. I did because I told myself as strong as she has been for me, I had to be just as strong for her.

As I said... I cant do her life justice in one blog entry. 13 years ago, I went to a local animal shelter in hopes of rescuing a dog.... and instead, she rescued me.

She came into my life when I needed a friend... as I had just lost my best human friend the summer before. I was rebuilding my life, I had just bought a home with my then husband to-be, and I was just discovering who I really was... and she helped me discover myself.

We went on countless adventures - probably more than the average dog does in a life time - camping, fishing, hiking, boating, ski-jouring, snow shoeing ... you name it, we did it... we did it together. She added spark and fun to everything we did. She had an amazing way of touching peoples lives... to this day, it is my belief that she has far more friends than I do... in fact, people often remember her name before they remember mine.

She was the only one in the world who stuck by my side no matter what. A little over a year ago, we struck out on our own - I was leaving a marriage that had abruptly ended, and it was the first time I had ever lived on my own. It was a scary and lonely time. Destiny never waivered. Because of her, we got the apartment that we did... it was the only ad in the paper that didnt say "no pets" ... and, the ad said "free eggs"... come to find out, my landlords have 6 kids, 2 dogs, 2 cats and a bunch of chickens. It was the perfect new home for us. She got to chase chickens, play with kids and became one of the pack. My landlords quickly became our best friends.

She stayed strong and with me through it all. She was strong when I couldnt be... she added a sense of peace and calm to my new home that only she could bring. She made sure I was happy again, and I was going to be ok... she knew that Mike and Derby would be there for me. She knew it was her time. She just had to convince me of it....

This song came on the radio this afternoon... and it says everything about what I am trying to say about her.... I needed her, she needed me... she was my Destiny.

I cried a tear
You wiped it dry
I was confused
You cleared my mind
I sold my soul
You bought it back for me
And held me up and gave me dignity
Somehow you needed me.

Chorus
You gave me strength

To stand alone again
To face the world
Out on my own again
You put me high upon a pedestal
So high that I could almost see eternity
You needed me
You needed me

And I can't believe it's you I can't believe it's true
I needed you and you were there
And I'll never leave, why should I leave
I'd be a fool
'Cause I've finally found someone who really cares

You held my hand
When it was cold
When I was lost
You took me home
You gave me hope
When I was at the end
And turned my lies
Back into truth again
You even called me friend

Repeat Chorus

You needed me
You needed me


68 comments:

NAK and The Residents of The Khottage Now With KhattleDog! said...

My mom is leaking fur sooo many reasons

Fur your loss
BUT more so in rekhognition of what YOU did -

You let her khross with dignity
and
You were there fur her -

That is the greatest gift our people khan give us - to be there with us if at all possible -

I'm sure Zoe and Destiny Grace are having some much fun tonight -

And as my furiend Princess Eva will tell woo, be on the lookout fur the sign she made it safely!

We are proud to have been introduced to this week!

Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra and Her Mom Phyll

Kodak the Eskie said...

I just feel gutted. I am so sorry to hear the news of your loss. We just met Destiny, but realized what a special furbaby she was. I know your pain, I have had to make the choice to put 3 dogs down. I refuse to let them suffer beyond what is tolerable. You did right by her and honored her, loved her and let her go. You gave Destiny a wonderful life and she you.

Hugs, Kodak

Raising Addie said...

Oh dear friend, I are sooo sad for you. You have been on my mind all day.

The tears really just won't stop now.

I wish I could be there to give you a great big HUG. I know the pain that you are feeling.

I just know that Zoe and Destiny are having a blast. They will be always watching over us.

You made the right decision. Destiny is now freed of the body that was holding her back.

We love you Destiny!

Lots of Luv and Kisses
Staci, Addie and Lucie

Anonymous said...

Oh, Cilly, we're just so terribly sorry for your loss :( :( :(

Our Momma is leaking :( :(

Destiny was such a special little girl, she will always be remembered!

Praying for you

Josh and Jess

Princess Eva and Brice said...

My friend Khyra is right. It is the hardest action to take to ease their journey to the bridge. But know that Destiny will live on in your heart and memories.

Please do watch for a sign that she has made it to the bridge where she is playing free of any pain or discomfort. Each of our pups at the bridge sent us a sign and we found comfort in it.

Our hearts are with you at this very difficult time and are including a poem that gave us some comfort.

Vicky, Princess Eva & Brice

If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done,
For this last battle can not be won.

You will be sad, I understand.
Don't let the grief then stay your hand.
For this day, more than all the rest,
Your love for me must stand the test.

We've had so many happy years.
What is to come can hold no fears.
You'd not want me to suffer so:
The time has come--please let me go.

Take me where my need they'll tend,
And please stay with me till the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you did for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.

Please do not grieve--it must be you
Who had the painful thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years;
Don't let you heart hold back its tears.

--Anonymous--

Moco said...

We are so sorry for the loss of your loved one. They stay with us for such a short time, but bring us such great joy.

Jans Funny Farm said...

It sounds as if Destiny had a happy and full life with you. We're sorry she had to leave so soon after meeting her, but we know you did what was best for her.

Hugs,
Jan & JFF

Mango the Maltese kiddo said...

I'm so sad to hear the sad news from Addie's blog about Destiny Grace's passing. My heart go out for Destiny and family. My mom had to help my brother Ringo the Maltese crossed the bridge in 2007.
I hope Destiny will meet Ringo soon
in dog's heaven.
Hugs and kisses.

Ally and Eclipse said...

I've just started following your blog but I'm soo soo sorry for the loss of your special Eskie friend! I myself have a five-year-old Eskie who sends her kisses and snuggles your way! I hope you cope okay, but I know that losing her isn't okay, I know it's a tough choice but Destiny knew when it was time and let you know as well. Hugs to you!

Ally w/ Eclipse (Golden Retriever Service Dog in training), Teddy (5-year-old Sheltie) & Kira (5-year-old Eskie I adopted two years ago)

Lorenza said...

You and Destiny are in our prayers and thoughts.
Take care
Lorenza

b13 said...

I'm here through Addie and so sorry to hear of your loss. It is wonderful that you were there for Destiny as she was for you all those years. I wish I had seen and followed this blog sooner but I hope you'll continue as a tribute to Destiny.

Suzuki said...

I am sorry for your loss and that Destiny and I didn't get to know each other better :(
Big licks to you
Suzuki
xxxx

Lacy said...

sad woof's, two days and we've had to say g-bye, twice now...we r leaking here..u new when it wuz time to let her go, and u did that fur her...itsss so hard...RIP Sweet girl, run with the wind...ur in our thoughts and prayers...

a sad,
rocky
bear
angel lacylulu
and mama...

River said...

Thank you for telling us about her since we came into her life only at the end. It sounds like she had an incredible life. We're thinking of you and sending beagle hugs. Destiny has many of our beagle doggies to play with too. I know they all will have so much fun together.

love & wags,
River & mom, Stephanie, and the crew

Hana said...

Our sympathies to you during this time. We only just met Destiny recently but obviously she was a remarkable well loved girl. We hope you will blog about her and share Destiny's and your stories with us.
~Hana the Dog and family

Stella said...

Having done this twice, I know that it is a gift to your dog, to ease them along this difficult path of illness. As hard as it is to do, it is a kindness and the last gift you can give your sick girl. Let me say Thank You for her, because I know she would.

Jo and Stella

♥Mona + Prissy + Angel Weenie♥ said...

Me and the Mommy are so sorry to hear that Destiny is gone. We read about her passing from Zoe's Mom, Staci. Samantha, the sister I never knew, had to be helped to the bridge in 2005. She was almost 15 years old and she had exactly the same thing that Destiny had so the Mommy knows exactly how you feel. Our 3 girls all had long, loving and happy lives & will always be in our hearts.

Our thoughts & prayers arw with you.

Love Mona & thre Mommy, Sarah, too!!

Elana said...

Oh, Cilly. I'm sending so much love your way.

<3

Khady Lynn said...

My friend Khyra sent me over. My mom has felt the same pain, right before she found me.

The love and memories will always be in your heart. Keep that close and let it comfort you.

I'm so very sorry for your loss. May Destiny run carefree at the bridge.

Holly

Ruby and Penny said...

I'm so, so sorry for your loss. You did a wonderful thing for Destiny. She is now running like the wind, pain free.
Hugs to you.
Love Ruby

Poopsie aka Blue said...

I'm so sorry for your loss.
I weep for you.

ThePainterPack said...

Mommy is leaking all over the place...we are so sorry for the loss of your bewootiful Destiny. We didn't get to know her and had just started reading your bloggie. But we can tell what a miracle she was in your life. Just know that you did what was best for Destiny in the end. She and Zoe are running zoomies at the Bridge, free of pain and suffering...we'll all meet them again someday. Until then, hold Destiny safely in your heart.

God Bless
Painter Pack

Molly the Airedale said...

We are absolutely sobbing here! Our hearts go out to you! We are so very, very sorry.

Love ya lots,
Maggie, Mitch and Sue

Andrea said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Just started following your blog. It sounds like Destiny was a great dog and that you had a wonderful life together. I've always said that we are our animals champions...Destiny had a good one in you.

Unknown said...

You and Des had a great life together. You did a brave thing for her. Our thoughts are with you!
Norwood

Tama-Chan, Benny, Vidock, Violette, Ollie, Heloise, Momo, Ryu said...

We are so very sorry to hear that you had to say goodbye to Destiny. Your tribute to her is so beautiful. She was clearly a wonderful friend and we can imagine how big the hole in your heart is right now. We also lost a dear woofie friend today and just helped to lay her to rest in the garden she loved, so our hearts are with you.

Tom, Tama-Chan and #1

Amber-Mae said...

Oh my, my Mom is leaking a lot too & so am I. Destiny was a really gorgeous girl, it's just sad that she's gone. She will always be on our memories. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family...

Hugs & Love,
Solid Gold Dancer & Family

Shmoo said...

Our condolences on your loss. Destiny lives forever in your heart, until you meet again, across the Rainbow Bridge.

Meeshka and the gimpy gang

Chrissie said...

I'm so sorry for your heart, Cilly. A great heart like hers is never truly lost, I believe.

Arran, Arthur and Mum said...

My mum has very leaky eyes now. We is so sad to hear about Destiny's crossing to the bridge. I bet she is having so much fun there now and is not in pain anymore, she can be the dog she was inside without all them problems on the outside.

Destiny was such a beautiful and special girl. I is only young, but I is very sure she will be watching you and making sure you is ok.
~lickies, Ludo

Unknown said...

I am so very sorry honey, my prayers are with you all. God bless.

Jodi

Paco,Milo, Maya and mommy Simona said...

OMD!!!!
Mommy is leaking all over the place...we are so sorry for the loss of your bewootiful Destiny!!!!!
first....zoe....
after....Destiny!!!
is such a very very very very sad week!!!!
You and Destiny are in our prayers and thoughts!!!!!!!!
Take care....
lots of love and kisses

Paco & Milo

Abby said...

Dear, Cilly...

I don't believe we have ever crossed paths, however, we all seem to be a family here...

I heard of your loss on Khrya's Blog & came over to say how sorry I was for your Loss...

What I found was a story that touched my heart more than I could have imagined...

My heart goes out to you...We send our love & thoughts & prayers...

Abby's Mom xxxooo

Roan said...

My heart goes out to you on this sad occasion.

Isis said...

we are very sorry with the news... we are sorry we didn't get to know you and go on your adventures with you. But know, that if you need us, we're hear to listen.

You'll meet again at the bridge

Mason Dixie said...

I am glad to have gotten to know you in this short time. I am very sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you.

Opy - the Original GruffPuppy said...

Run free sweet Destiny - you fought hard, you have earned your Angel wings sweetheart.

Our hearts are breaking, and we send all our love to your family.

Love

Brooke, Greg, Charlie & Opy

-The Mullin Clan's Mommy- said...

R mommy has tears running down her face while reading yur blog. We are so sorry for the loss of yur Destiny. Before us, mommy held her Shanna when it was her time to cross The Bridge. It was very, very hard fur her. Now she has us to drive her crazy - more gray hairs (she covers them red) - & make her laugh.

-da boys, Cosmos & Juneau-

Steve, Kat, & Wilbur said...

We are so sorry to hear about your loss.

Steve and Kat

Vicki luvs Chopper ! said...

Cilly, I am so sorry for the greif you are feeling right now...the loss of a dear friend is not easy.

You took me back to the day when I put both my dogs down..on a big bed...and the hardest thing to do was to pick who went first. Both of us on the floor when the 1st crossed..we grieved, than had to be there again for the other...my God..they are such a part of our lives.. My husband and I spent a day walking around the lake, crying/sobbing.

I didnt think that loving another was possible, and as a matter of fact...it took a long time for me to love chopper...Our memories of Keyna and DeeOhGee always seem to pop up...Now...the love is so grand for that big Moose !!

You let Des go with such dignity..you gave her the love to the very end...and she knew it..and is thankful, you made the right decision..

There is a neat website www.petmomorieonline.com

There you can leave a beautiful memorial...I did for the boys back in 2003. I am so glad I printed it..because I tried to look them up and it doesnt go that far back..but it is a beautiful and thoughtful website...

Destiny is a beautiful doggie..thank you for posting all the pictures...My favorite is her so bright and white with a little of her tongue hanging out...
In all the pictures she looks so happy..!!

I'm glad everyone was there for you, especially Mike..Love is a wonderful thing !!

Praying that you soon find comfort..enjoy Her memories...

Hugs to you Cilly !!

Vicki

Kathryn and Ari said...

Hi, Cilly. We read about Destiny on Kodak's blog and had to come over to send our best wishes. Your tribute to Destiny is just beautiful--and brought more than a few tears to my eyes. Thanks for letting us share in your love and Destiny's life. Our thoughts are with you!
K&A

Twinkle a.k.a Chicken Little said...

all our condolence go to your family, may Destiny run free on rainbow bridge.

slurpy licks,
Twinkle

Roxie, Sammy, Andy and Shermie said...

We have never had the chance to meet Destiny but we heard about the passing. We went to Zoe's blog yesterday to leave our condolences and now today we find there is another dog angel.

Mom re-read the entry about Zoe and started to get leaky eyes. Then she came over here and she is hugging us and telling us how much we bring to her life. We can tell her heart is breaking for you and for Zoe's Mom.

You have been so strong for Destiny. She is pain-free and running at the bridge with all of her friends who have gone before her. She is waiting patiently for those of us who will come in the future.

We think our verification word is fitting

winges

almost like those angel wings Destiny got.

Thank you for loving her so well and for so long. We know your memories and pictures will be a comfort to you as you miss your dear, dear friend.

Roxie, Sammy, Andy and Dachsie Mom (Mary)

Koobuss said...

We am sorry to hear of Destiny's passing. Please accept our deepest condolences. It is so sad to lose your best friend.


Love and Koobuss Kisses,
Koobie

The Brat Pack said...

We are so, so sorry for your loss. You were lucky to have each other. Run free sweet one.

The Brat Pack & Maryann

Samantha: said...

My mompeep's squeeking and sad about the loss of Destiny, but in awe of your beautiful ability to allow Destiny to cross over the bridge with so much love and dignity. You have taught my mom so much but I'm still so, so sorry. We love you, Cilly
Samantha

Casper and pals said...

Oh Cilly, I am so sorry for your loss.

It is wonderful that you had all Destiny's special people come to see her to say goodbye. Destiny gave you so much and you too gave her so much in return. It's so sad when we have to say goodbye to our furkids.

Know that my eyes are leaking and heart is aching for you.

I too have had to make this difficult decision of when too say goodbye. The only thing that kept me going was knowing what I did was the right thing and the Rainbow Bridge Poem.

The Rainbow Bridge


"Just this side of Heaven is a place called The Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.

There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals that had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. The bright eyes are intent, the eager body quivers.

Suddenly they begin to break away from the group, flying over the green grass, their legs carrying them faster and faster.

YOU have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.

The happy kisses rain upon your face, your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together......."


--author unknown


Take care Cilly. Know that Destiny will be with you in your memories until you see her again at the Rainbow Bridge.

Gwyn, Casper, Buddy and Nikki

Kapp pack said...

Godspeed Sweet Destiny! I'm sure our Kelsey Ann was amongst those who greeted you north of the rainbow bridge.

Royal Kisses, King Skyboy

Anonymous said...

Rest in peace Destiny...
You were such a beautiful dog.

Lots of hugs and kisses for your boss.

Amber and Nala said...

Our hearts are with you and it is obvious what a great life Destiny had with you and what a great life she provided for you. :) I think it is so wonderful that you brought her friends together to tell her goodbye...what a wonderful way to celebrate her life.

Thinking of you,
Amber & Nala

Abby said...

To Destiny's Mama,

You are such an angel. Destiny had the MOST amazing life because of you. Do not forget for a minute that she is waiting for you. Our Mama knows the pain you are feeling. Just hold on, and some day you and Destiny will be together again.

Love,
Abby, Olivia and Taz
Abby

Teddy said...

Yours is a story of true love. I'm glad you were able to be in each other's lives. Remember that your love will last forever, and you will be with each other again.

Teddy, T-man Angel, CC-man and mom

Southbaygirl said...

I am so very sorry for your loss! I recently lost my cat, Winton, to renal failure-it is a horrible disease but you were able to take the pain away from Destiny! She will always be with you! Embrace all the wonderful memories! She will never leave your side!

I am so sorry! I understand how she rescued you-my dog, Velcro, rescued me too...dogs have a way of coming into your life and making it whole! I'm so glad you had so many years with her and were able to be with her when she went to the Bridge. You were her best friend! And you were an amazing friend to her!

May she rest in peace now! And may you one day smile and remember all the wonderful times you had with her!

Velcro, Kodak, 3 Perf, Blossom, Angel Winton and mom Penny

Princess Patches said...

We are soooooo sorry! It's amazing how us doggies let our people know when the time is right. It is never easy, even when you know it is the right thing to do. We will keep our paws crossed for all of you!

Run free sweet Destiny and play with all our buddies at the bridge!

Aire-hugs,
Poppy, Penny & Patches

Golden Woofs! SUGAR said...

Woof! We are very sorry for your loss. Please visit my blog and read my post "Loosing Your Pet" Hope it will provide some comfort in your loss. Woof! Sugar

Charlotte said...

We are sending you lots of love and kisses as your mourn the passing of your beloved Destiny.

We have lit a candle to guide her safely on her journey. Godspeed Destiny..........

A very fitting song to a wonderful companion.

Your friends,

Oskar, Schatzi & Xena

Dakota said...

We add our condolences to the many. Thank you for sharing your life and love with us.

ChloƩ said...

It´s a bad new... i´m so sorry, my mommy and me say you that she always will be in ours hearts, you can be sure!!!

Love, CHloe

the many Bs said...

oh Cilly, we are so so so so sorry for the loss of your love, Destiny. we never did know her, but from what you wrote, she sounded like a wonderful dog. please find some comfort in all of your wonderful memories and photos. you were a perfect mom for her. you two rescued each other.

sad sad woofs.

from the 4Bs - Bailey, Baxter,

Asta said...

Cilly
Mommi and I awe having a hawd time witing, she's leaking so much..what a bootiful twiboote to a vewy special gowgeous loving fwiend. You did the hawdest thing, and the most loving thing by letting hew go..you wewe wif hew to the last , just like she was wif you, and will continue to be always.
Destiny will be alive in youw heawt fowevew..hew smile will help you thwough these hawd days. you awe in ouw thoughts and pwayews
love and smoochie kisses
ASTA and Mommi

i said...

We're really sad to hear this. Our thoughts are with you.

Huskee and Hershey said...

We are so sorry for your loss and no words can describe how sad we are.

This is a wonderful tribute to your Destiny... We only have one great regret that we didn't know your precious girl earlier and get to share in her adventures...

Our mom leaked non stop when she read the post and she had to tell her colleagues that her contact lenses were giving her problems.

We are sure Destiny knows that what you did was the best for her... one day, someday, you will be reunited again.

** Hugs to you**

The Furry Kids said...

We are so sorry for your loss.

Chef said...

I heard the sad news on Addie's blog and I wanted to stop by and pay my respects. I am so sorry to hear about Destiny. It is a very sad time for your family and we send our deepest condolences to you.

Chef

White Dog Blog said...

We are so sorry about your loss! How alone and empty things must feel right now. We all share your numbness and send you strength, positive energy and support.

Know Destiny is at peace and awaits you...and that she will ALWAYS be watching over you and beating as an undying spark in your heart. Love never ends.

JB's Big and Small Worlds said...

We are so sorry to hear about Destiny and so sorry we have not met her before this. We came over from Addie's blog. We are so sad, and we know how you feel. My sister, Misty, also has CRF, and my mom is so worried about her, since she was diagnosed on New Year's Eve. And then my sister, PooPoo, passed away on 1/13.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. It has been a very sad time this past week or so with so many going to the Rainbow Bridge.
Purrs and a bark to you,
--JB, Misty and Bear

Eduardo said...

I am so sorry for your loss of your sweet Destiny. You are such a great woman to have done what you did, to be such a great friend & Mommy to Destiny. You make my Mommy cry, she hopes that she can be such a great mom to me. I wish I could snuggle with you & Mommy is praying for you.
Hugs & Snugs
Eduardo the Snuggle Puggle

Anonymous said...

Cilly,
Our dad sez to tell y'all that ya did the right thing. You had the courage to think of what was best for Destiny and not by selfish and think of what you truly wanted, to hold on to your soul mate little girl. We hope you keep blogging for Destiny, at least for a while so that you can hold on to her and share her with us all a little bit more. We know that Destiny will always be with you; that's your Destiny. Our mom and dad, unfortunately, know exactly how you feel. We'll howl at the sky for you and Destiny tonight.
- Homer J., Jubal, J.E.B., Sophie, Shelby Belle, jack, Abby, Max, shiloh, alex, boru, and Jenny = The Bumpass hounds (and Kitties0