Last week, we laid Rosie to rest. One of life’s most significant challenges is to say goodbye to a being that you love. Besides the immense emptiness, what’s also painful is knowing whether or not you made the right decision for an innocent being who can’t tell you what they need.
I cannot write about all that happened leading to the utterly finite decision. It’s too much to bear emotionally, but I can express the hope and love I feel in my heart for the little Boston Terrier who strolled into my life when I met Jay.
When Rosie and Butters were introduced during Thanksgiving Weekend of 2013, they attempted to dominate each other. I wasn’t discouraged, though. I knew that the power play would end once they ran along the beaches of Santa Barbara. But, at the time, I didn’t realize how inextricably linked the two of them would be for the next 8+ years of their lives.
Since that day, the four of us have traveled across multiple state lines together. Rosie and Butters made their marks on one hundred different cities and towns. The two were inseparable, always side-by-side as they walked, slept, and played. Rosie was a loving companion for Butters and, in recent years, a mentor to Lonnie.
A big hole is in our lives, one that will never be filled – but one we will learn to embrace. While we will never see Rosie in this life, she might visit us in our dreams.
In Korean, there’s a saying: 잘 갔다와 (jal ghatawa), which roughly translates to “take care until you return.”
So instead of goodbye, I say to Rosie, take care until you return to us.
Categories: Uncategorized
Butters & Bambi 
Yon, we’re so sorry for your loss of Rosie, its amazing how such a small creature can fill such a huge spot in your heart. Its been over 3 years since we lost Frontier and at times I can still “see” her out of the corner of my eye. But I realize that I’m really seeing her with my heart, I welcome those sights because it let’s me know she’s always with us.I know Rosie will always be with you and Jay too.EvetteSent via the Samsung Galaxy S9, an AT&T 5G Evolution capable smartphone
Thank you, Evette. What you said is so true… that such a small creature could have such a big impact. I hope to have regular sightings of Rosie – like you have of sweet Frontier.
I know the pain Yon, it will be with you all for some to come, but eventually it will fade and leave nothing but happy memories in it’s wake. Take care of Butters.
Thank you so much – I truly look forward to the pain easing up.
My sincerest condolences for your loss and my thoughts are with you and Jay as you deal with this difficult time. The love you shared with Rosie, captured beautifully in your post above, is everlasting and may that fact bring some solace.
Thank you so much, Thomas. Hugs.
Hello dear Yon,
I’m so very sorry for your loss and the difficult period you must be going through right now. I’m so glad you shared it with us through writing and your blog. Sending you much love and hugs through the ether. Miss your lovely presence and energy.
XO Shiuan
Thank you for reading, Shiuan. I also miss you too. I hope we can reconnect soon.
Sounds good, Yon. Be in touch soon XO
Oh Yon. I’m so sorry to read this. We had to say goodbye to Sami last fall so I know how much y’all miss her. Sending lots of love!
It’s so great to hear from you, Jesse. I fondly remember us meeting you in AZ. You even gave us a great tip about where to camp next. Thank you for reading and I’m sorry to hear about Sami. Sending you hugs and look forward to the day we can meet again.