Annie goes to the Rainbow Bridge

It happened in a split second. Before anyone could do anything about it. The week was filled with family coming in and out of the house. First my niece, and then youngest daughter, then oldest son for 10th high school reunion. Funfilled and never long enough. As oldest son was departing, the dogs were excitedly jumping at the chance to escape out with him. Finally they got out jumping around frolicking. Then Annie, Mama's dog, who is the friendliest and most spirited and happy go lucky started to run - right to the street. She was at the wrong place at the wrong time. We heard a small noise, and knew it didn't sound normal. And then we saw it. Lying in the road........ her tiny, less than 10 lb body was lifeless. One look at her and we knew... she bore no pain as it was immediate. The driver probably didn't see her, nor did they realize what they had done. At least we hope so.

I ran to the house and told Mom - that it didn't look good, to prepare her for the loss. Dear son gently lifted her from the pavement and brought her to the side of the road. "Mom, it was instantaneous...her neck is broken." He brought her to the house in case Mom wanted to see her one more time.

We got the shovel and looked for the right place to bury her. Before we began, son and eight year old had two big containers of water. I wasn't sure what it was for, and when they came back I asked. "To cleanse the road to make it less painful" - he is so thoughtful......

We find an oval basket just the right size, and found the shady spot. Gently placed, Annie goes to a place where there are no cars, and where she can romp and play to her heart's content. She loved frogs and would hold a point with them, so I am sure she would want a few of those there with her too.

A small cross made from polished rocks was placed on her grave as dear 8 year old wanted something special there.

Dear son stayed a couple of more hours to make sure all was taken care of and to allow us to grieve during the initial shock. I'm proud of my son for having such a gentle compassion during such a traumatic time - times like these that though I was not a perfect parent, that I have a wonderfully compassionate son who can offer comfort and hugs at the right times and knows the right things to say.

There is an empty space in our hearts tonight. Tears have fallen and will fall for a dog that was so loved her short life and gave so much love to us all.