In Loving Memory

Just when I think I've had all the sadness I can take in one year of time, I've been hit with more. My precious Chatum was called by the angels to join Augie. She had been the picture of health until yesterday afternoon when an undetected, asymptomatic, hemangiosarcoma tumor caused her spleen to rupture. Ever since we lost Augie eight weeks ago, Chatum has been glued to my side as my most faithful companion. She loved riding in the car, hoping to get treats from as many drive thrus as possible. We pulled over yesterday to watch the most magnificent sunset at the beach. As we were getting ready to leave, she fell ill. I rushed her to the vet, having no idea what her fate was. It was apparent she was gravely ill. The suddenness of her passing has left me devastated and consumed with grief. Chatum was so sweet and affectionate. She loved to be petted and touched all the time....if you stopped, she would nudge your hand to continue. Playing with a tennis ball was her passion (or obsession)! She would absolutely exhaust herself (and her thrower) playing fetch. Her trademark move was to do the "moonwalk" as she dropped the ball and slowly backed up, ready to take off for another throw. For the first time in over 20 years, I'm without a dog in my life. As with everything else that has transpired these last twelve months, "this too shall pass". I take great comfort in knowing that my precious Augusta Pearl was wagging her tail and barking in joy when my sweet Chatum Bear showed up at the gates of doggie heaven.