If you had an occasion to visit our farm in the last 11 ½ yrs. you have met Tasha. She is the yellow lab that met you at the door with a smile on her face. At first you may have not realized she was smiling but thought instead she may not be happy to see you, but, a second later with her tail wagging as fast as it could, literally shaking her whole body, you knew she was just happy to see you. Tasha loved everybody, particularly children, she lived on the attention and affection kids showered her with. Tasha was a real character, for the past several years during the summer, she loved spending the entire day outside and we finally realized she was sitting next door on the golf course mooching treats from the golfers. I would call her home but I knew that as soon as I was out of sight, right back she would go. The golfers didn't seem to mind it was almost as if she reminded them of a dog they may have known themselves. Tasha had a good life.

One Saturday in May, Tasha became ill. We tried to figure out what was wrong but it was apparent she needed more help that we could give her. We took her to the Vet for their opinion and help. Tasha's illness was terminal. It was hard to believe she could be so ill, just a few days before she was following me out to the barn hoping she could chase a horse or two. However, she was really ill and in pain. I made the agonizing decision as a final act of my love, to have her suffering stopped. The only way I can live with my decision is to tell myself I did not end her life, but, I ended her suffering. Yet, saying that does not stop the pain and regret. My husband said, "No more animals in this house, this is too hard!" I understand his pain, but, the pain I feel now is because I will miss the joy and love that Tasha gave me for the past 11 ½ yrs. The pain is a reminder of Tasha and how she dedicated her life to our family. Memories of her as a puppy, her traveling with me to visit my daughter in Florida, the smiles and giggles she gave the kids as she watched over them, watching her chase the horses and barn cats just for fun, and so many more. These are priceless memories that I would not have wanted to miss, not for anything, not even this pain.

I know Tasha is at the Rainbow Bridge, with the others that have gone before her, waiting for me to join her someday. Tasha is again pain-free, able to run, jump, play, chase a few horses and maybe even beg a few treats from a golfer or two. I will miss her everyday that goes without saying, but, to have never had her in my life would have been the real tragedy. I will endure the pain I feel now in Tribute to Tasha's love. I can still see her beautiful brown eyes looking into my heart and asking, "What can I do to make you happy?" My answer to her is, "Tasha, your job is over, you took care of us with patience, love and true dedication. You have earned this time to relax. I Love You and Miss You! I want you to play, chase a few horses and cats, roll in the warm sun and sweet grass, have a good time and remember we will meet again."

Love,
Me your Human Mom