Thursday, November 13, 2008

RIP Archie


Today my daughter called to let Bill and me know that Archie, her fiance's dog, had passed away. They are both brokenhearted and their grief is so raw and tangible. Of course my thought is to do something but, what can you do but grieve, too. They decided to take the day off, hop into their jeep and see where it takes them.I thought that was a great way to spend the day and honor Archie. If I know them they were at the beach and there is nothing more calming and life affirming than the ocean.
Tom got Archie, the English Sheepdog, as a puppy and had him for twelve wonderful years. So much love was lavished on this BIG dog from Tom, Jeni, Livi (Jen's dog), Tom's family, friends, and us, too.
I think everyone who met this gentle giant was taken in by that face and his disposition. He looked like he was walking around in a tuxedo because of his coloring. He had an aristocratic bearing that belied the love that spilled out on everyone that got close enough. What a great presense he was in our lives.
We will miss you, Archie. What a great big boy you were. How lucky we all were to have known you and loved you. How lucky you were to have Tom and Jeni devoted to you and loving you for all your life.
I will include a cartoon sketch of what Archie's breed looks like. I will send photos of Archie later.
This will fit in with this month's theme of grief (unfortunately) as I know Tom and Jeni both are grieving now over the loss of their beloved pet.
Brian always wanted a big dog. It gives me comfort to think he has one huge , beautiful, loving dog now.
You will be missed Arch.

5 comments:

Mary said...

I am so sorry about Archie. I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet. I can tell Archie was 'family' and well loved by Tom and Jeni. My condolences to those who grieve their special friend.

Peggy said...

You have me in tears here Judy. We are also big dog fans and just dog fans in general actually. Twelve years is a long life for a very big dog and he must have lived a well-loved and healthy life. It is so hard to lose our furry family members. Hugs to you all.

Darrell said...

Of course, I can relate to what they are going through. People who aren't pet lovers just don't get it. They think that those of us who grieve over the loss of our pets are a bit "out there" Well, I for one will take this as a great compliment. If being "out there" means that we get to enjoy the unconditional love our wonderful pets give us, then I want to be as "out there" as I can get. Please pass on the condolences of our whole family, Judy. We certainly know what they are feeling and sometimes, it just helps to know that.

Bill said...

It saddens me to see Jeni and Tom have to have this pain. I keep thinking how much easier it would be to just not love or get involved with anyone or anything. Then you wouldn't risk any pain. But, you also wouldn't experience life.RIP Archie.

Willow said...

I am sad for Jeni and Tom's loss of their faithful friend and companion Archie. He will live on in memories and photos and stories.