This was supposed to be a post about the two new NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliners in Las Ramblas and Via De’ Martelli, and it still is…kind of.
What began as a regular review took a sharp detour before noon.
I planned to mention that reddish brown Via De Martelli pulls red on my warm skin tone and makes me look like I’ve been crying… I thought it deserved a respectable B.
And then I planned to talk about how yellow gold Las Ramblas, a solid B+ in my book, reflects light like the surface of a glassy pond, making it perfect for brightening up the eyes.
Both it and Martelli last about eight hours on my lash lines and four on my water lines, and neither one seems very adept at smudging. Both cost $24 and arrive on counters, in stores and online with the rest of the NARS Fall 2013 collection July 15.
But then I got a phone call from El Hub just before noon.
He very calmly told me to sit down, and told me to brace myself, because he had bad news…
He told me that my parents’ dog, Shauna, had passed away, and now I just can’t stop crying.
I know that to some people it seems silly to cry so much over a dog, but Shauna was a part of our family. She was with us for 14 years, a good dog who always guarded the house and kept us company. My heart is broken.
Shauna was a pound puppy who came to live with us in 1999. My dad, who’s always had a soft spot for strays, brought her home unexpectedly one day after meeting her at a Petco pet adoption fair.
I’d just graduated from college at the time and was living with my parents while looking for work.
I’ll never forget the first time I met her… She came bounding through the front yard, four fat paws attached to a big ball of chunky puppy cuteness! Her tail never stopped wagging, and she had the goofiest grin on her face. From that day forward, we were thick as thieves. It was love.
Every morning while I lived at home, she greeted me with sloppy kisses and a smile. We’d go for walks first thing each day, and she never needed a leash. She knew how to heel and stop instinctively.
When I left my parents’ house and moved to SF, I wanted to take her with me, but it was the dot-com boom days in the Bay Area, and I couldn’t find an apartment that would take pets, so Shauna stayed behind with my mom and dad.
Eventually, after my younger brother moved out of the house, Shauna became the baby of the family. Whenever my mom or dad would call, they’d give me a report on how Shauna was doing, whether she had buried any treats in the yard, captured any vermin or learned any new tricks. They called her “my little sister.”
My parents. They’re so sad right now. When I talked to my mom on the phone earlier she started bawling, and babe, my mom NEVER cries. That woman is tough as nails. She told me that she can’t bear to clean out Shauna’s dog house or put away her toys, and now I just keep randomly bursting into tears…
Shauna was a sweet, gentle, happy dog, and she was beloved by our family. She had 14 good years with us, and I’m thankful for that.
I knew she was getting older, and I tried to brace myself for this day, but it didn’t work. I’m heartbroken.
Goodbye, my sweet Shauna. Good girl.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
I’m so sorry, Karen. It’s not silly at all to cry about an animal’s death. Both of the cats I grew up with have died in the past year or so–in fact, I found out about the second one just yesterday, so it was really eerie to see this post. A pet’s death is always heartbreaking and there’s nothing to be done about that, but I do hope you feel better eventually.
I’m sorry Karen. It’s so hard when an animal dies, and it’s not silly to be sad. They bring us so much joy during their lives. A couple of years ago my dog Charlie passed away. He wasn’t the first pet I had lost, but he was the first (and only) pet I’d lost as an adult and that I had adopted while living on my own. I still cry over him sometimes, but I know he’s in heaven, probably engaging in his two favorite activities – sleeping and eating – at the same time. Shauna is up there too. Two books that made me feel better were “Dog Heaven” and “Paw Prints in the Stars.” The latter even has some blank pages to put in pictures, like a scrap book. I hope you feel better soon.
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss Karen. 🙁 Reading about her made me cry-she seemed like such a great dog. It’s not silly at all to cry over the loss of a beloved pet. My brother lost his dog recently-she was 16 years old and he’s still heartbroken. He also got the book Dog Heaven that Elizabeth mentioned, and it helped him out a lot. Hugs to you all.
I’m so sorry Karen. I’ve never lost a pet after I was 5 years old, but my parents and younger brother got Ninja a couple of years ago, and I just can’t imagine losing him. He went missing this morning and my mum and brother were frantic! My thoughts are with you and yours — rest in peace Shauna.
Sending hugs, so sorry Karen. I’ve been there, a beloved pet like Shauna is such a part of the family that their loss is deeply felt. It sounds like she had a wonderful life from the moment your Dad rescued her.
xo
Oh Karen, I’m so sorry. Hugs to you and your family!!!
Virtual hugs to you Karen. I teared up just reading this. I so dread the day my baby dog leaves me, I cherish everyday with her. Shauna must be having fun where she is now, she sounds like such a fun dog. Rest in peace.
Oh Karen, I’m so sorry! It’s always heartbreaking to lose a good and faithful pet.
Oh, Karen. I’m so very sorry for you and your family. Nothing I can say can make the hurt go away, but please know that there will be a day that the thought of Shauna will make you smile instead of cry. I know this very personally, because we lost the furry love of my life, Mr. Kitty, a few months ago. I miss him like crazy every day, but we recently adopted a tiny, fluffy little ball of grey and white kitten energy named Bill Clawsby to help us cope with the grief. It will get better. I promise.
So sorry, Karen. The family dog I grew up with made it to 15, and as much as you can tell yourself they had a good, long life, you’re never ready and it always feels way too soon.
Missy and I are sending lots of love and hugs your way.
Big hugs to you Karen. I wish I could say something to make you feel better. Pets are family too and I don’t know anyone who would think it’s silly to cry over a lost pet. I hope you get some extra Tabs cuddles this week and take care of yourself. I’m so sorry for your loss 🙁
I’ve got my 14 years old golden retriever at my left side, on my office couch, and I couldn’t help busrting in tears while reading your post: I know she is very, very old now, and one of these days I will get news as you’ve gotten. I wish they could live longer. And you are right: they are family, of course they are. She stood by me when I got married, when I gost divorced, during late working nights, in parties and holidays, sure she is my family.
I am very sorry for your loss.
(I love Nars but I couldn’t care less about it, now)
Kisses from Portugal
So sorry for your loss. It’s never silly to cry or feel a sense of loss when a pet dies. Hugs to you and your family.
Hi Karen, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss; Shauna sounds like she was a truly wonderful girl and had a happy life with you and your folks. Wishing you lots of comfort and good memories in the coming days —
Im so sorry for your loss Karen. Huggs
I’m so sorry for your families loss…in time you can take comfort knowing that you guys gave Shauna a great home and a good life.
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. We just lost one of our cats in April and I still miss him every single day. He was the funny guy of our two kitties and I miss his sassiness and loving nature. I still cry about him three months later.
Oh, I’m so heartbroken for you. What a gorgeous girl your Shauna was. Sending hugs!!
I’m so sorry for you and your family, Karen. The loss of a beloved dog and family member is one of the most heart-wrenching experiences in life, I think. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Much love.
I’m sorry, Karen. And if crying over an animal is silly, then I’m the most ridiculous person in the world. I cry over them all. Shauna is a beautiful girl and I’m sure you had a wonderful, wonderful life with her. But not nearly as much of a wonderful life as she had with all of you, and I’m sure she’s grateful for every single second of love you gave her. *HUGS*
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Shauna. I don’t think it’s silly at all to cry for the loss of somebody you loved. I lost my Binky (that was her name) four years ago and I still keep a picture of her in my room. I loved her, she was the cutest little teacup I’d ever seen. It always made me laugh at how she would try to “attack” my hand while playing and I’d have to pretend that she was actually succeeding (lol)
As the saying goes, “only time heals all wounds.” One day you’ll be able to think about her and all the good times without feeling sad. It takes time. Although I share your pain, I am happy that Shauna had good people who cared and loved her dearly until the end. May she rest in peace.
This hit home for me 🙁 I just recently lost my beloved golden retriever, we had him for 10 years. It was so difficult he really was a part of our family, he’s in almost all of our family photos since 2002. I’m sorry you are going through this, my only consolation is that I was lucky to have such a great dog for so long. Hopefully you can find solace with the same knowledge. Thoughts and prayers for your family
Big hugs to you, Karen… Thank you for sharing these pictures and memories with us. Shauna looks like an adorable baby. As much as it hurts, please take comfort in knowing that she had a good life, full of love. She will always, always be just as goofy and fun in your memories. May she rest in peace.
I feel so bad for you Karen. It’s so sad to lose a pet. I don’t care what anyone says–animals are like family. I write this with tears in my eyes as my ” old girl” Honey lies patiently by the door waiting to go outside. We never know how long we get to keep those we love–both pets and people. Your Shauna was a lucky dog to have been adapted by such a good family and you are a better person for having known her. I hope you are reunited with her someday, as I hope to be with the pets I have loved and lost over the years.
Thoughts are w/you & your family – It is so hard so lose your best friend & believe I have – but now I have a new maniac munckin maine coon cat – nothing like the love of my life but he’s ok – he makes me laugh – me watches me cry – and I do love him – Shauna I know you are chasing all those kitties in heaven and taking care of everyone that needs some love – RIP
I’m so very sorry for your loss! I’ve had two pets pass away (age and illness) in the past couple of years and it is devastating.
Silly to cry for a dog? NO, No never.
I can imagine your sadness, and I hope we all together can give you that warm hug you need right now. I have been there and I cried , also when my hamster passed away. Who cannot understand your tears and your sorrow has never a furry friend.Cry as much as you need, mourn her as much as you like and need .
Don’t trow everything of her away, keep her in your memories.
It was so nice of your father to give her the opportunity to have a home for 14 years and give her a shelter, love,food,water care and warm she needed.
A big hug for your parents, your siblings your hub and you .
My sincere condolences.
So sorry for your loss. I lost a dog a few years ago, my family told me while I was at work. It was the worst day ever but with time it gets better. Sending you and your family some big e-hugs.
Oh, dear 🙁 I’m so sorry, and so sad for all of you right now. I really feel your loss. I’ve had two dogs, and even when one was given to my uncle (we couldn’t have him in our apartment) I cried like a little boy when I heard each one of the had died. They are family to me, like siblings (my dogs and my mom’s cat) and children (my two cats). I send you hugs all the way from Mexico, and give kisses to Tabs on my behalf.
I’m sorry for your loss Karen. I lost my dog Nadia in 2010 at 14 years old as well. I too cried like a baby when she died. I live in FL and my parents in VA so I missed seeing her everyday but at the same time I’m glad I wasn’t there when she died. Funny thing was that Nadia didn’t even belong to us. She was the neighbor’s dog! But she was apart of our family.
It’ll get better for you and your parents.
Karen,
So sorry to read of your loss. Loosing a pet hurts very deep and even though it seems like the ultimate sadness for awhile, you will feel better eventually! We got our beloved kitty in 1999 so she is also 14. Reading your post today reminded me that our pets simply cannot live forever, and that I will continue to appreciate every day I get to spend with my cat. Your dog LOVED you! Be content with the fact that you and your family gave her a WONDERFUL life! Thinking of you! Bless your heart <3
I don’t think it’s silly to cry over the loss of a family member no matter what species they are. I had tears in my eyes while reading this post. My parents dog passed away a couple of months ago and I miss her everyday. Hugs to you and your family.
I’m sorry for your loss Karen. Pets are far more than just that; they’re literally members of the family. You’re in my prayers.
I’m so sorry! Pets really are family members. It’s absolutely amazing how they burrow into our hearts.
If you need a little cheering up, I recommend reading The Oatmeal’s comic “My Dog: The Paradox”. It might make you a little bit misty-eyed, but the comic is so true and extremely touching.
I’m so sorry to hear about your baby.
I’m sorry for your loss. Don’t feel silly for grieving so much. The amount of grief corresponds to the greatness of your love for each other. She looks the epitome of a bright-eyed, playful, and loving dog.
Hi Karen, I’m so sorry to hear about your dog. I just had a similar experience – the oldest of my parents’ four cats, the mother of the other three we have, unexpectedly had to get put down last week (don’t want to go into details). She was 13, so while she lived a long life, all of the cats I’ve ever had lived to be at least 18, so it was a total shock.
It’s so hard to lose a pet, even when it’s one you don’t see much anymore. I know you have Tabs, and I have my own kitty now that I’m very attached to, but it sure doesn’t make it any easier when they go. It sounds like Shauna had a wonderful life. Take care – it will get easier. Just try to think of the good times.
Love your blog and everything you do.
So hard, and so sad. Pets become best friends just like people – and sometimes even better. Sending virtual hugs your way, Karen.
Good dog. It hurts to lose a love. I hope you find the support and time you need to heal. Peace.
Karen, I’m so sorry for your loss. Shauna was really lucky to have such a loving family. It’s not silly at all to cry about it – anyone who has ever looked into the eyes of a loved pet knows they have just as much soul and heart as we do. I’m sure she is still guarding you guys, only with a much better view.
I know words don’t change a thing when you’re facing such an immense loss, but I’m sending a big hug your way.
Karen – I’m so sorry to hear about your family’s beloved Shauna – I have a dog and I cannot imagine losing her – Shauna will always be in your heart and memories, and know that she is over the Rainbow Bridge cherishing how much she was loved.
I am crying as I read your post. It would be silly not to cry when you lose someone you love. May your lovely, sweet girl rest in peace, and may you eventually find comfort in your wonderful memories of her. She is a beautiful, beautiful girl. To love and be loved by an animal is one of life’s purest and most glorious gifts…and saying goodbye is so very hard.
This is so, SO, sad, Karen. Here are some big virtual hugs: *HUGS*
RIP Shauna
Oh Karen, I’m so so sorry for your loss, losing a beloved pet is so hard! Shauna sounds like she was a wonderful puppy and she was loved and had a great life with your family. *hugs*
I’m so very sorry for your terrible loss. You have my deepest sympathy. The death of such a sweet, loving family member will of course leave a terrible hole in your heart, and she is worthy of your tears and mourning. I’m crying with you.
Oh, I’m so sorry Karen. I’m so sorry Shauna passed away. Reading that has me crying too. From looking at those pictures she has a good, sweet face, the kind I swear all pound puppies have. It’s never silly to cry over losing a loved one, human or four legged. Anyone who says any different has no clue how strong the human-animal bond can be (and should be shot out of a canon into a pool of hungry sharks). Take all the time you need to grieve and be sad. I think (hope!) that people will understand. Please be kind to yourself.
I’m so sorry about your doggie Karen. Sending lots of hugs your way.
Rest in peace sweet Shauna.
Karen, I’m so sorry for the loss of your friend. I can see from the pics of Shauna what a happy furbaby she was. Obviously loved by your family, and she adored you all as well.
Karen-I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one is never easy even if that loved one is a furry one. Reading your post it was easy to see Shauna had a good life and was loved and the memories you and your family have of her will last forever. Thoughts to you and yours. Hug Tabs and remember the good times you had with her
Oh Karen, my heart is breaking for your pain, I’m so sorry that sweet puppy is gone… I’m crying too and I know just how you feel. I don’t want to add more burden, but when I moved to the US four or so years ago I felt behind my kitty, Felix and my doggy, Mara. They were both rescued animals and the loves of my life. As life has it, I lost them both before I had a chance to go back home and see them again :(((. I’m still bursting into tears randomly and my heart will never heal completely wondering if I broke their heart by moving so far away… Sometimes I wonder if it was easier on me now to be there when they passed away because honestly, I’m not sure I could have handled it very well. I loved those guys more than I can put into words and I still can’t talk about their not being around anymore, it’s just too painful. I really understand how much it hurts and I feel for you… Many hugs to you, my friend xox
I started tearing up reading your post. There is absolutely nothing silly about crying over a pet so take all the time you need to feel better, you got that, Karen? Shauna was obviously extremely important to you and your family and it’s also clear that she got so much love and gave so much love, too. Please feel better! *Lots of hugs and love.”
My heart breaks for you and your family Karen. Dogs are such special animals and they hold such a special place in our hearts and in our lives. To think we can have so much love and devotion to someone we have never had an actual “conversation” with though we know we connect with and understand each other so well. Dogs teach us about unconditional love and devotion and how to live in the moment, which are two very beautiful things. Hopefully your parents will mourn and reflect on how wonderful a dog she was but then in time go out and rescue again.
So so sorry to hear this Karen! 🙁 *hugs* My prayers are with you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss Karen. This post made me cry. I lost the cat I had for most of my childhood, Marbles, about a year ago. It still makes me sad!
I’m so sorry for you and your family’s loss. I was heartbroken when my dog died because like yours, she was a part of the family. I hope some sunshine and happiness comes to you and your family soon.
I’m so glad you had so many great years with Shauna; there is nothing like the unconditional love of a dog. This time is tough but you’ll have all those great memories and hopefully in time, a home to offer another dog needing a family. I have 4 dogs and our eldest, Monster (shepherd/dobie x), is 13 years old. He’s on arthritis meds and much slower in his golden years but as long as he’s still fetching, swimming and smiling then we’re going to keep loving him every minute of it. Thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
I know exactly how you feel I lost my best friend two weeks ago and I lost a piece of my heart that belongs to Sweetie my baby doll .I know That God has a special place for them because they are like angels that teaches us how to love to really love because they love us and protect us and they know that we love them and once they fulfill their purpose they return to heaven to be loved and to play with angels like never before.
I will be praying for you and your parents hearts
Nothing silly about it at all. I lost my dog of 12 years when I was 22. We too were thick as thieves. I’m 30 years old now and lost my only sibling , my 25 year old brother, to suicide in May. I grieved just as much for him. Dogs are family, and just as hard to loose.
So sorry Karen, Hugs for you and your family
I’m so sorry to hear about Shauna, Karen. Lots of hugs for you and your family.
RIP..
Heartbroken..
Sarah
PrettyGloss – beauty, makeup & a lil bit life
Karen, I can not say how much I feel for you and your family.
I has been over a year since I had to put my truly beloved Black Beauty to sleep (a german shepard-labrador mixbreed). I still bawl like crazy every now and then and I think about her constantly. So you are not being silly at all.
Lots of love
/P
Oh, Karen, I’m sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. Our black cat jumped over the 5′ mesh surrounding our second floor balcony tonight, in chase of a neighbour’s outdoor cat. We searched for her for almost 45 minutes. My heart was in my throat the whole time. I can’t imagine how much it would hurt to lose her. Many hugs to you and your family, Karen.
Oh Karen, I’m sending a big virtual hug to you and your family right now. Losing a pet is so, so hard. In my eyes, they are the only creatures on earth that love us unconditionally. Even if I have to scold my pugs for being bad, 5 seconds later they are back on my lap, licking my face. They love us no matter what. I’m happy you had so many years with sweet Shauna. I know she is running through fields with my German Shepherd Trina and they are having a ball. Big hugs my friend. Xxx
Definitely NOT silly in my book to cry over a doggie 🙁 I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending out good vibes to you and your family at this tough time.
I am so so sorry for your loss, Karen! Our pets are family members so it is not silly at all to cry. It shows how much you love her.
I’m so sorry for your loss Karen. Our pets hold such a place in our hearts. Shauna will be there forever.
I’m so sorry to hear about Shauna, Karen. I lost my sweet dog Jake in May, and it’s very tough to deal with…they are members of the family and always hold a cherished spot in our hearts. Hugs to you…
Hi Karen, I’m a regular reader from south of France and i love your blog… How surprised and chocked i was when i just read this post. It’s just such a exactly similar story to us. We lost our 14 1/2 years old black labrador named Oliver on March 10th,4 months ago. How difficult it still is !! We had him as a baby and he growed with our children. He was the clown of the house, soooo funny every day, and as we have always been working home, he was very very close to us. We loved him so much and we miss him every single day. Very hard, really. Just like a child.
I understand so well your pain and you made tears come to my eyes when reading you. Courage, Karen. We never forget them.
With love from South of France, +++++++
Sylvie.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a dog friend is so hard. Be good to yourself and remember all the good moments you had together. I hope Tabs is keeping you company. Take good care.
I am so sorry. 🙁 I know exactly how u feel. pets become part of the family and it is so sad to see them go. hugs for u and your mom (())
I am so, so sorry for your family’s loss. Thanks for sharing pictures of Shauna. She looks like such a sweet, lovable girl. Sending hugs and prayers to you during this difficult time. Take care.
So sorry, Karen. Hugs to you and your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My cat is very old and we’ve had for over half my life, and still the thought of losing her breaks my heart. Pets become a part of us, and I wouldn’t want to change that, even when it hurts so much.
So sorry to hear about Shauna, Karen…hugs to you and your family.
I am so sorry, Karen. Losing a beloved member of the family is heartbreaking. We lost our family dog that had been there throughout the last 13 years of our lives and it was awful. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts.
Oh no Karen, I’m so so sorry to hear about Shauna… I know it’s not now or anytime soon, but one day you’ll stop feeling this way and be able to smile with all the fond memories you have of her. My condolences *hugs*
Oh Karen! I’m so so sorry about your little sister, Shauna…hugs and hugs to you and your family! I have a 19 year old cat and as much as I’m steeling myself for the inevitable, I can’t bear to think about it. I hope you know that we are all grieving with you. XOXO
I’m so sorry, again. Just reading about your mom is making me cry, too. 🙁
My condolences on the loss of your sweet pup. I understand how hard it is for you and your family. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers.
I am deeply sorry for your loss, Karen! I know exactly how it feels and in the beginning it almost feel as if the pain will never go away but it will eventually fade a bit with time and you’ll be able to think about Shauna with a smile on your face. For what it’s worth I am sure she sees you and is happy and healthy somewhere else now, that is what I firmly believe.
And don’t let anyone think you’re silly for grieving a much loved pet! When one of my brother’s cats got liver failure and had to be put down I thought I was going to be relatively okay and could be stable and supportive one, but out of nowhere when I was doing the dishes I suddenly burst into tears and couldn’t stop crying.
Lots of hugs from me and my cats!
I’m so sorry to hear about Shauna Karen. I can imagine how devastated your parents must be right now. Take care.
I’m so sorry to hear about your 4 legged family member. I just lost my 10 year old Boxer on 7/5. Talk about being completely devastated. They become like family that you don’t even see them as just a “dog”. He became like my little baby. Our doggies are in doggie Heaven Karen. May you find comfort knowing theres other heartbroken doggies lovers out there… like me. We’ll get through this. (shedding some tears)
I’m so sorry for your loss of sweet Shauna. I lost Snowball a few years ago and I still cry from missing her. She was our fourth sister, grew up with us, and will never be replaced. But I’ve learned to move on and have a new love, a german shepherd named Ares. There is hope in loss, even when you are so very sad. So many animals need homes and its good to hear Shauna was so loved.
Aw, Karen I’m so sorry 🙁 One of my beloved furry friends was hit by a car a few years ago and passed away, so I know how heartbreaking it is. Will be thinking of you!
I’m so sorry for your loss!! We have adopted many strays and pound puppies over the years and they’ve always become part of the family. You’re losing a friend, and it’s not silly to grieve the loss of such an important part of your life. It’s always terribly painful, but thankfully we have lots of wonderful memories. My heart goes out to you and your family.
I’m so sorry to hear about Shauna. You guys gave her a wonderful life and she loved you so much. Hugs – and don’t ever feel like there is a limit to how much you can cry over a dog. I lost my dog Pumpkin in 2009 and I still cry over her.
What a beautiful dog, I bet he had a great life. Sorry for your loss Karen.
I’m so sorry about your loss. I cried while reading your post. Pets are a part of the family. Shauna was a beautiful dog. She obviously was, and still is, well loved <3
I got teary eyed just reading your post. Nothing is more heart breaking than losing a beloved pet. My sympathies to your family.
So sorry to hear about Shauna. I lost one of my dogs earlier this year (his name was Snoop), so I’m still recovering from his loss as well. Take comfort in knowing she had a happy life and a loving family. *Hugs*
Oh Karen, I am so sorry about Shauna. It isn’t odd at all to cry over a beloved pet sister. I have cried more than I can say over many well loved birds, dogs and cats who have gone ahead. I hope happy memories of you together help some at this sad time. ((((((((Karen))))))))
Karen, so very, very sorry for your loss. Please understand that a lot of us here have or have had pets at some point in time and losing a pet is losing a family member. It’s so hard, I’ve been there several times myself and can honestly say that the inevitable end of life is the only negative part of pet ownership. I’m sure she lived a happy life and she’s in heaven now playing with the pets all of us have loved and lost at some point. We’re here for you and we understand what you are going through.
Oh my…..I could never stop crying over those things. I am such an animal lover, defend them, carry them, protecting them….It touches really deep when I read any kind of animal related stories…I feel for you. I had 2 dogs myself when I was younger, one after the other, and OMG, it was so painful when they left me. They will always stay in my heart, I can’t stop crying now even more….RIP Shauna.
Hi Karen…I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your furry family member. I lost my sweet 9 year old kitty Lilo to lymphoma 2 weeks ago and I still cry all the time about it. My family rescued her and her brother Stitch when they were only a few weeks old. Its the hardest part about owning a pet, I just try to take comfort in knowing we gave her the best life possible but it still hurts. Take care ♥
Karen you of all people should know that animals are just little people with fur. They give so much to us and they are truly a divine blessing from God to cherished. There is no such thing as just a dog….
My prayers go to you and your family at this time.
Love Annabella xoxo
You just made me tear up. I’m so sorry about Shauna. I hope it helps to know how much she was obviously loved by you and your family and made her life better for it (and yours as well, I’m sure)! I will never get over any of the losses of my pets because they were my family and the first ones whom I loved unconditionally, like they were my children. It does get easier as time goes by, but you’ll never forget them. That much I know is true!
I’m very sorry for your loss. I’m thinking about you and your family. Take care.
Oh Karen, I’m so truly sorry to hear about your beloved Shauna. Anyone with a pet knows that they mean the world to their owners and it’s truly heartbreaking when they sadly pass away. I know i’ll be inconsolable when my little cat has to go 🙁 I wish grief wasn’t so utterly devastating. Shauna sounded like a big softie, kind, playful, just an absolute sweetheart. It’s touching to hear how loved and adored she was. My sincere condolences to you and your family x
I’m so sorry for your loss, Karen. Looking at the pictures, I want to hug Shauna myself. She sounds like she was the sweetest dog. Hugs and prayers to you and your family!
So sorry Karen. Losing a member of your family is so hard. I recently lost two pets, and the only thing to do is to smile and know they had an amazing life with you. Stay strong <3
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news, Karen. Shauna looks like a very happy girl and I can tell from your post that she was very well-loved by you and your family. I hope you find some comfort in the many happy memories you have with her and that your pain eases in time. There’s nothing silly or wrong about mourning the loss of a loved one and your love for Shauna shines through every word. I can see that your story has touched a lot of hearts, which seems a fitting tribute to a wonderful friend. xo, Sandy
I cried just reading this, nevermind if she was my own. Pets deserve to be grieved. Big hugs from NC.
Karen, I’m so sorry about Shauna. It’s not at all silly to be crying about losing your dog. Pets are part of your family, so losing them is like losing a family member. Sometimes it can be more difficult than losing someone human, because not every one is an animal lover and is as understanding about the loss of a pet. I remember going through similar emotions when I lost my dog. Grieving is never silly.
I hope you and your family are surrounded by loving, understanding and supportive people and I wish you and your family all the best.
Love and hugs, Laure
So sorry about Shauna. It sounds like she had a wonderful life with you and your family. The memories you shared with her will last forever. Big Canadian hugs from Vancouver.
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. Losing a pet is heartache. ((HUGS))
Hi Karen. Sorry for your loss. I’m crying with you… It’s ok to grieve Shauna. I’ve lost pets in the past & they’ll always be with you.
Sending lots of hugs your way. I have lost beloved pets and animal friends before and it hurts. It hurts when you’ve shared your life with a friend who did nothing but give their all, each and every day without question and loved unconditionally. It’s ok to grieve, and it’s ok to cry.
Karen, I’m so sorry! I was in tears just reading. I can only imagine how you feel. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Hey Karen–I wanted to tell you that I’m so sorry for your loss. I know for me that the dogs that I’ve been lucky enough to have in my life, weren’t just “pets” they were family. Losing them through the years has been heart-wrenching. It seems like Shauna was the same for you and your human family. My mother always said that the pain we feel at their loss is the price of all the infinite love they give us. I don’t know about you, but I’ve always felt that though the loss is devastating, it’s worth it if that’s what I have to take to have known them and their wonderful personalities. Please know my thoughts and tears are with you and your family.
It’s not silly to cry when you lose a pet especially if your pet has been a part of your family and not just the dog or cat in the house. I’ve lost pets in the past and I always cry. I’m so sorry about Shauna but I’m sure she’s very happy because you made her part of your family.
It’s not silly to mourn the loss of a beloved member of a family, because after all, our pets ARE family, the best friends we will ever have and our most faithful companions.
It is NOT silly to cry over a dog. Karen, I can put myself into your shoes easily, and I feel your pain 🙁 . I had two amazing dogs that both passed within weeks of each other, and I cried for a day straight and for the next few days I was very unstable. To this day I still think about them often. Dogs become like children or siblings. They woof and cuddle their way into your heart before you know it. So sorry for your loss, she sounds like a great dog 🙂
I am so heartbroken for you and your family. Sending love and prayers to you all.
Cry, cry and cry some more. I cried for weeks over our family dog. Baby was 17 when she passed. I’m so sorry for your loss. I understand. Keep the tissues close.
It’s hard when our “little puppies” go away… They get older, but they never lost the sweetness! I cried when I read your post because I remenber how Betina is at her mid age now… and I could realize how hard this time is being for your family! Have your time to feel bad, because it is really a sad time (unfortunately). We will be here to try to cheer you up in the comments!
Karen, you made me cry! Big fat tears 🙁
My boys are 5 and 7 and the day they go I know my heart will be broken too. (((HUGS))) girl!
I read this post earlier this morning but I couldn’t seem to find the right words to express my feelings. I’m so sorry for your loss. Our pets give us the only real glimpse of unconditional love this side of heaven. It really hurts when they are gone but you have the strength and support that you need to get through this.
It really is amazing the connection we have with pets. Just like someone posted earlier dogs and their humans know each other so well yet have never had an actual “conversation” with one another. It really is a powerful bond that death itself can not break. Yes, cry as much as you need to. Give your family our best wishes during this time.
Oh, Karen…there isn’t anything I can say about the loss of Shauna that your beautiful post doesn’t already address (she had a long and lovely life, you knew this day would come eventually) but I am so very sorry for your loss. Beloved pets are pure in heart and their love is unconditional; it is very hard to let them go. Bless you and your family and know that Shauna is in the comforting arms of God.
Oh my dear, my heart goes out to you and your parents. Dogs are such wonderful family members. xoxo
I am very, very sorry. And I say it with tears in my eyes.
A big hug, dear.
Karen, I’d like to echo everyone’s sentiment here & express how sorry I am for the loss of your Shauna. Pets become our family, our siblings, our children & our grandchildren. So, it’s only natural that you are grieving her loss. Allow yourself time to grieve & don’t impose a time limit on your grief.
I have an American Bobtail kitty named Stella – she is gray & white and has no tail. My husband got her for me for my birthday in 2005 – five short months after we were married. She is the first pet I’ve had as an adult that is mine. My husband and I are unable to have children (physical issues), and Stella has become our daughter. She rules the roost with an iron fist & is so not your typical affectionate, lap-cat kitty. She’s affectionate, but only with he & I and only when she’s in the mood. She turned 9 this year, so she’s getting up there in years. When she passes, I know that I will grieve for a very long time because she is my furry daughter & the closest I will ever be to becoming a mom.
I said all that to say this ~ our pets become so much more than animals to us. It is not silly at all nor is it “indulgent” to mourn when they die. They are a part of our lives & reside in so many of our memories. I wish I were there to give you a big hug – I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. Hang in there, sweetie…
I’m so sorry for your loss, it’s completely understandable to hurt that much over the loss of a family member including the furry kind. Shauna sounds like she was the best, and the sweetest and cutest, and she was clearly so loved and cared for in return.
*hugs if you want them*
Oh, I am so, so sorry…
Oh Karen, your tribute to Shauna made me tear up. Big hugs to you and your family.
So sorry for your loss, Karen. I completely understand your sadness and grief. I hope you and your family feel better soon. Keep your chin up, and remember, she will always be with you.
Oh Karen! I am so sorry for your loss!! I have always believed there is a special place in heaven for our four-legged friends. God bless!
I completely know how you feel, hang in there!! We lost Ally after a very short 10 years. I always felt like she was my husband’s dog even though we adopted her together. She adored him and we joking referred to her as “the other woman,” I always said that when she passed that my husband was going to take it especially hard but to my surprise, I fell completely apart when she left us! We both were crazy about her and she loved us back unconditionally… focus on the fun stories and crazy antics of Shauna’s. That helped me once the initial shock began to fade. Hugs from Texas!!
I’m so sorry Karen, and I hope in time your grief can be replaced by the happy, loving memories without the pain.
I just started reading your blog and saw this post. I am so very sorry. I have a cat that I adopted in 1999, same year as your dog. I often think about when her day will come and I hate doing that as it ruins the time I have with her. Again, I am so very sorry and I will keep you in my heart/mind.
I am so so sorry for your loss. My parent’s dog is 12 and she’s been my best friend since I was in middle school when we got her as a puppy. I’m bracing for the day when she passes. It’s so tough to lose a pet- they love you so unconditionally.
I’m so sorry Karen. We lost our dear dig, Serene, this spring. My heart is still broken…
hugs, karen. sounds like you had a good 14 years with shauna, very rare nowadays. we are bracing ourselves for our dog who will be 9 this year. he is slowing down some noticeably early this years.
hugs again.
I’m so very sorry, Karen. I’ve been there, I’ve felt that enormous, gaping hole, and I know there’s nothing that makes it hurt less. Sending big virtual hugs your way, hon.
All the best, Karen! I mean it.
I’m so sorry for your and your parents’ loss 🙁 they become a member of our family and it is not silly at all to cry or grieve over them. It is only natural. I lost my Samoyed angel in February 2009, a day shy from turning 14. I miss him everyday. The only think that comforts is to know you got to spend and share your life with them for 14 years. It was an honor and a privilege. Loved your written hommage to Shauna and the pics. Hold on to the good moments and memories. They are priceless. A big hug, Elsa
i’m so sorry. My doggies are part of my family too it is so heartbreaking. you told a lovely story about her. thank you for sharing.
Karen, I’m so so sorry for your loss. Loosing a pet is no different than loosing a family member in my eyes. Thank you for sharing with us, and sending you hugs and kitty snuggles. xoxo
Oh Karen, I’m so sorry! She was a beautiful, beautiful doggy and obviously was loved beyond measure by you and your family.
Karen I am so sorry for your loss. I recently became a pet owner after being afraid of dogs for pretty much 31 years! I hope that you find peace in knowing that she is heaven looking down on you. It is not silly to be upset, your pets are your family. I will pray for you and your family.
Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. You absolutely do not have to explain or justify why you are crying so much over the loss of your doggy. I believe that sometimes, some people have a connection with a certain animal that is unexplainable and more intense and deep than even human love can be.
That is what I had with my baby Henry. He was (will always be) the love of my life. He died very suddenly at age 4 and I canceled by bachelorette party because of it. I was too sad to go. Too sad to fake a smile and hang out drinking wine and partying with my friends. I just couldn’t. I cried for days. I buried him myself in our backyard. I dug the hole myself. It was the only thing that made me feel better at all, digging into the earth and knowing I was the one to put my baby to rest for the last time.
It is a moment in time seared into my memory: unwrapping his frozen body from his blanket and laying him down into the earth. Holding him one last time and then saying goodbye.
There is a granite headstone at his grave sight that I visit when I know that I can handle it. Sometimes its too sad and I just can’t go there. This is what is on Henry’s headstone:
Even after all this time
the Sun never says to the Earth, you owe me
Look at a love like that
It lights the whole sky
~hafiz
May your heart heal as time passes. I know you will never forget.
I know this comment is super late, but I wanted to share my sympathy with you. I lost my cat two years ago and it really is one of the most difficult situations to go through. Oreo was my baby and with me through my hardest times, and I still think of her every day.
What has helped me, and I hope helps you through this, is reminding myself that she had a good home with lots of love. Obviously, Shauna did too, and I’m sure she is watching you and your family over the Rainbow Bridge with thanks and love for taking her in and caring for her as a family member.
Stay well. Much love. <3