Day 239

1/9/23

It seemed like we just said "Hello" and today it was "Good-bye" to Jimmy. Coming home for Christmas was such a gift to me and the family, but now he is headed back to Burbank and his acting career. All four pups greeted us when we returned from the airport and then seemed to look for Jimmy. They ran into his room, sniffed the bed and came out expectantly. He was not there, so they all went back into his room and took up residence. I believe the dogs miss him almost as much as his mother does!

One of the dearest qualities in our Goldens is their frantic adoration when they reunite with us. Now, this might be after a few days or it could be after about 20 minutes. Their greetings are SO full of love, that you almost hate to leave them at all!

When we do leave them, Gus sits in the window watching for our return, Ranger and Lilly usually lie by the back door and Sam is in his kennel in front of Dog TV. I hope they don't pine away, but I do know they are anxious for us to come back from our journey...short or long.

It is very hard for me to be separated from my loved ones. When they travel to far-away destinations, I am so very glad when they arrive home with their amazing memories. With my son moving across the country, his homecoming is overwhelming for dogs and family...but especially me.

Why is it so challenging to be separated from loved ones? My thought is that simply knowing they are close and a hug away warms the heart. These are my people...family and dearest friends...who fill the need to connect with caring hearts.

For my Goldens, separation from their people seems to be a real battle. They can't understand WHY we leave them because they would NEVER leave us! Their devotion humbles me.

I wish I could explain where their brother Jimmy has gone and why he needs to be there. Of course, they wouldn't understand. So, I just fill that gap with extra love and attention. That is the remedy for any crack in the heart...a good thing to remember.