Last week we had to say goodbye to our beloved dog, Gabby. What we thought was aging joints and inflammation turned out to be bone cancer. One afternoon, she went outside, curled up on the deck, and couldn’t get back up. It was probably best for her that she went so quickly as things were only going to get much worse, but we were devastated.
Gabby was already four years old when she came to live us. When we bring an animal into our lives, we can pretty much guarantee that because of their shorter lifespan they’re going to break our hearts at some point. Yet, they give us such joy and love, we know we’d do it all over again.
Gabby came into my life just as I’d started working from home. Although it was my daughter who wanted a dog, I needed the companionship too. Our sweet girl didn’t disappoint. She slept at my feet while I worked, always one paw touching me somewhere. She hiked with me for miles, happy to be out in all weather. She attended numerous baseball and football games, excited to be part of our third son’s cheering section.
I have pictures of everyone in the family giving Gabby full-body hugs. Actually, it looks more like she is giving us a full-body hug. Ray and I would often joke that we hoped to be worthy of her unconditional love, and that no one was happier to see us when we’d walk through the door than Gabby.
I miss her when I sit out on the porch. I miss her when I’m working at the kitchen table. I miss her when I spill something on the floor. I miss her howling comically at the cookie jar, begging for a treat. She was a beautiful soul and I am eternally grateful that she shared our home for the last six years.
Rest easy, dear Gabby. We love you.
In other news…
Save the date! The RI Author Expo is going virtual this year. On December 5 from 10 am - 4 pm, we will have a fantastic line-up of FREE panels, programs, and virtual author meet and greets. We’re using the Grenadine platform and it would be best to register ahead of time so you can plan your day. On the day of the event, live links will be available for every program. Check it out here: RI Virtual Expo. Click the blue button on the top navigation bar to register for the event.
Here’s my schedule for the day:
Tabitha’s Kaffeeklatsch (meet and greet) 10:00 - 10:45 am
Not Your Mama’s Romance (panel) - 11:00 - 11:45 am
Kick Your Scene into Action (presentation) 12:00 - 12:45 pm
So, You Want to Write a Series? (panel) 2:00 - 2:45 pm
A Hero, an Anti-hero, and a Villain Walk into a Bar… (panel) 3:00 - 3:45 pm
Hope to see you there!
