“To live in this world you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it; and, when the time comes to let it go.” Mary Oliver
Princess Meghan Joined Maggie in the Clouds
This well may be the hardest blog I’ve ever written. But it’s part of my travel journey and I know I must share it for continuity in my blogging. One of these days I’ll write the whole story, but the wound is still too fresh for complete details.
After losing my long-time canine travel companion, Maggie, and adopting Princess Meghan, a tiny, energetic beagle as her replacement, I lost her also.
In a space of eight days, I stood beside two beloved pets as they were humanely euthanized. A freak accident left Meghan paralyzed and I felt I had no choice.
My body shut down for four days and only today is it beginning to revive itself. I mostly stayed alone in my RV with the shades drawn. The shades are up today, and I’m once again open to the outside world.
A plethora of bird song is humming through the air, and a nearby white wisteria is scenting the landscape. I’m extremely grateful to notice because my senses were so dimmed by my sorrow that I truly could not enjoy the roadside bluebonnets that accompanied me Friday on a journey from Lake Jackson to Harker Heights north of Austin.
I saw them, but felt no joy.
I was going to continue on Saturday toward Tucson, where a sick daughter wants her mother, but my body refused to go on. So I’m sitting here at my oldest son’s home for a few days. I suspect I’ll continue my journey Tuesday or Wednesday.
It will be a lonely trip, but I do believe this tough old broad will at least be able to enjoy the sights along the way. Hopefully there will be more roadside bluebonnets.
And hopefully, this blog will once again take on its upbeat travel theme. Dookie happens to everyone and getting on with life is always the best thing we can do.
Camping With a Canine in Cornwall http://tinyurl.com/726he22 This reminded me of many of my own adventuress when I was a tent camper. And it cheered me up.
From here, it almost seems like some biblical test is visited on you. Best of luck pushing yourself forward and through.
We all await the return of happier blogs.
This morning I got some pix of an elegant Sandhill crane and her chick. I will forward one to you after I tweak them in Photoshop.
Looking forward to the sandhill crane photo. I once saw these elegant birds do their courting dance. Thanks Al.
Keep writing … Pat Bean https://patbean.wordpress.com
I am so sorry, Pat. You must be devastated. I will keep the three of you in my prayers.
Thanks everyone. I appreciate your kind words.
Keep writing … Pat Bean https://patbean.wordpress.com
Mercy sakes, Pat. I don’t dare ask. I’m just grateful your little princess had a few days of true love before she joined Maggie. There is no understanding this life sometimes, that’s for sure. Sending some Light your way.
Thanks Dani. Sometimes I feel guilty because my life is so good. Guess I won’t be feeling that way for awhile. Thanks for all your concern. The light is especially welcome, as is this beautiful overcast day here in Texas. I love the wind blowing gently through my open windows.
Keep writing … Pat Bean https://patbean.wordpress.com
Oh Pat, tears flowed and my heart was filled with pain as I read your words. I cannot imagine the depth of your grief, loss and bewilderment at this turn of events on your journey. Know that you are surrounded and lifted up by so many who love & care for you.
I know that your heart will still be heavy for awhile, my friend.I will hold you close to my heart.
I can’t imagine your pain. Our hearts and prayers are with you. Sending lots of light and love your way.
Aww, Pat. I’m sorry. How lucky those little guys and we in the blogging world are to know someone who loves nature so much. (Giving you a virtual pat on the back)
Oh Pat, how difficult, my heart is holding your hand… Blessed be
Oh Pat, I am so, so sorry. Sending you hugs and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
My heart goes out to you, Pat.
Pat, I’m SO SORRY for your loss! Let Mother Nature work her healing magic. HUGS
My heart breaks for you Pat- sending warm thoughts and healing energy
Chery
So sorry to hear this Pat, my thoughts are with you.
Jim
I don’t have words for this, except to say that while Meghan was with you, she knew love.
I was so sorry to read this…hope you feel better soon…it takes time.
Tears streaming down my cheeks. Wish I was close enough that I could hug you. It is a painful time.
NO NO NO NO !! This is the most terrible news I have ever heard. This is so heart wrenching, and I know how you feel with the loss of your companions. They will always be in your heart.
I am sorry to hear such sad news … life is really tough on us sometimes. Take the solitude you need to gain your strength … glad to hear the shades are up and I am sure just being out in the beauty of nature will heal you.
Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry.
Not again..I don’t even know what to say, Pat. Would a stuffed animal help right now? Please, please, keep your sunny side up. I would imagine when you start seeing the flowers, beautiful trees and the sun shining, you will feel a bit better. Know it’s probably dumb, but these things are what keeps me going thru the toughest times.
Take care.
Thanks Pat. Nature is always what has kept me sane in an insane world. When I was a newspaper city editor, I usually headed for Mount Ogden’s bench hiking trails before I headed home. And thankfully I’m once again able to see the scenery around me.
Keep writing … Pat Bean https://patbean.wordpress.com