Tuesday 27 November 2018

Thank You, Penny.

It was mid-November in the year 2000.  I was about to take my son, Tristan, to a surprise, mystery location.  He was intrigued as we made the short journey to a house on the other side of town.  Upon entering the house, we were ushered into the living room.  A living room full of people Tristan had never met before.

The lady of the house entered the living room.  "Hello, you must be Tristan.  Please come this way", she said.  Tristan and I walked up the stairs.  The sounds of one month old little puppies could be clearly heard through a closed bedroom door.  "Buzzin'!", Tristan said, with all the boundless enthusiasm of a twelve year old boy.

The door was gently opened.  Before us, a wonder to behold.  Several Parsons Jack Russell pups were frolicking along the bedroom floor.  "Tristan, you can choose one of the puppies", I stated, with a huge smile on my face.  For I knew how much my son loved dogs.  Now was his chance to have a one of those little puppies become a huge part of his life, of my life.

Tristan and this one particular puppy made eye contact.  Penny, as she would be later named, chose my son as he chose her.  Three weeks later, Penny came to live with us.

And their adventures began.  They went everywhere  together.  A boy and his beloved dog, running free in open fields.  Indeed, a love so profound that there was a time when my son was near the edge of a hill and Penny put her teeth in the bottom of his trousers to pull him back.

The years rolled by.  The puppy became a fully grown dog.  The young boy became a young man.

The visits to the vets increased.  September, 2012, a vet checked out some lumps on her body and declared that she had some cancerous growths. The vet stated it was a high risk operation and she maybe had a year to live. The diagnosis didn't seem thorough enough and thus, we consulted with another vet.  It transpired that Penny, after a biopsy, had some fatty tissues.  The fatty tissues were removed and all was well with Penny.

September, 2017.  Penny seemed a bit poorly.  I took her to the vets that, after I moved home, was only a couple minutes walk away.  Upon examining her, the vet informed me that Penny had a tumour on her womb and a heart murmur. She said that Penny, most likely, had just a few weeks to live.  I was devastated.  I walked her back home.  The tears streamed down my face.  I sobbed uncontrollably.

Yet, Penny lived on.  Yes, at times, she seemed rather lethargic.  Her eyesight was fading and walks with her were becoming more difficult.  In between, were those wondrous, playful times where she seemed perfectly fine.  I truly believe that her love for us and our love for her, made her determined to share as much time with us as she possibly could.

Tuesday evening, October 23, 2018.  It was about seven in the evening.  I took Penny out for a walk.  Then, just like most nights, I headed off to the supermarket.  Upon my return, about eight in the evening, I realised something was very wrong with Penny.  I thought that taking her out for another walk might make her feel better.  Oh, how wrong I was.  I carried her back into my apartment.  I phoned my son.  I drove over to his place but noticed him waiting on a street corner.  We drove back to my apartment.

Tristan could now see that Penny was really struggling.  I phoned the veterinary clinic.  I got put through to the emergency vet but there was a fault in the line and she couldn't hear me.  My son phoned back and once again, the vet couldn't hear him either.  Tristan picked up Penny and carried her in his arms as we took the short walk to the vets.  Tristan banged on the front door of the closed veterinary clinic.  I went around the back and thankfully, there was a gentleman who worked there at night.  He managed to get through to the emergency vet.

The gentleman led us into a back room with a table for Penny to be placed on.  We comforted her as best we could.  Ten minutes later, the emergency vet arrived.  She examined Penny.  She looked at us, explained what had happened, which I wont detail here.  "It's time", the vet gently said to us.

Tristan and I lovingly caressed her as she went to sleep. It was the suddenness of it all.  Less than two hours had gone by since I first realised that something was so very wrong with our little angel.
Christmas, 2000.  A twelve year old Tristan with a two month old Penny. 💓
And a fully grown Penny with her human brother, now a young man. 💓
Penny the puppy with her human dad. 💓 
A fully grown Penny with her human dad.  💓

It has taken me over a month before I could finally write this post.  The waves of emotion have washed over me.  Especially in those silent moments when I'm all alone.  Yet, I truly know and Tristan truly knows, that during those silent moments, the love of Penny comes through in ways that touch our hearts and souls. She is always with us.

Penny was an ideal.  She taught us the lessons of non-judgemental, unconditional love.  I am humbled.  I'm deeply moved by all she did for us.  We both focus on all the sweet innocence she brought into our lives.  The joy she brought has no boundaries.  

In her passing, the bond between my son and I has never been stronger.  Our shared love for Penny, a powerful tonic of positivity.  She continues to weave her magic.

And now she has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.  Roaming and running in the fields of freedom.

Thank you, Penny.  We love you, Penny. 💓💓











































October 10, 2000 to October 23, 2018. 💓

105 comments:

  1. Gary and Tristan, I'm so sorry for the loss of your special girl. She had such a good home with you; perhaps thinking of that will provide some comfort. Love and hugs and bless all good dogs.

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    1. Hi Jenny,

      Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. Indeed, we focus on how blessed we were to have her in our lives. It brings a glowing comfort to know that she was and still is, a cherished family member.

      Bless all good dogs, indeed.

      Love and hugs back to you, my friend.

      Gary

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  2. Penny is definitely going to be missed.

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    1. Hi Pat,

      Thank you. She will be always loved and never forgotten.

      Gary

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  3. So very sorry for you both. You gave her such love and a wonderful, long life! I can't imagine how much you must miss her now. Sending hugs and wishes for peaceful hearts.

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    1. Hi Kim,

      Thank you, my very special friend. She had a full and joyous life that she shared with Tristan and I. Yes, we miss her terribly and yet, she will forever resonate in our hearts.

      Bless you and CindyLu.

      Gary

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  4. Many loved your little girl. Nice to believe in angels.Hugs to you and Tristan.

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    1. Hi Eve,

      You are most kind. I do believe our precious dogs are angels who share with us a pure beauty, love and wisdom.

      We appreciate your hugs, dear friend.

      Gary

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  5. Oh no, Penny! My deepest condolences. Though I only knew Penny through the posts filtered through her persona, it was always a delight to hear from her and you could really feel the love. This is a wonderful eulogy. I hope it brings a measure of comfort to know there are many internet strangers who knew about Penny and keep her memory.

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    1. Hi Pickleope Von Pickleope,

      Thanking you kindly. Putting up this post is cleansing therapy and a celebration of her life. It was wonderful that she shared her wisdom with us all. I appreciate your comment, my kind friend.

      Gary

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  6. My condolences to you and your family.

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    1. Hi Sandi,

      My son and I thank you very much.

      Gary

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  7. I am crying at this sad, sad news tonight. Penny's wonderful personality shone through your blog and touched the hearts of so many of us in the blogosphere, like the true internet superstar she was to us. My deepest condolences to you, Gary and Tristan. May you find heart's ease in time.

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    1. Hi Debra,

      I'm still in a rather reflective mood and this is why it has taken so long to respond to your loving comment.

      Penny's mission, her ideals, live on. You, my amazing friend, have demonstrated this. Thank you for the condolences for Tristan and myself.

      In kindness,

      Gary

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  8. Tears with and for you and Tristan. Heartfelt hugs and oceans of caring.

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    1. Hi Sue,

      The cleansing tears are a shared understanding of what Penny and our animal friends truly mean to decent humans such as you.

      Thank you for the heartfelt hugs and oceans of caring, my compassionate friend.

      In gratitude,

      Gary

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  9. I'm glad you had her and loved her – but so, so sorry for the pain I know her loss will have brought.

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    1. Hi Patsy,

      Thank you, Patsy. My son's love and my love for a dog that loved us will be immersed in our hearts forever.

      Bless you, my friend.

      Gary

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  10. Reading this I kept saying "I'm not going to cry", but I was wrong, the tears are falling. So sad Penny is gone, but so glad you and Tristan shared so much time with this wonderful little girl.

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    1. Hi River,

      And reading what you have written, has made my tears commence again. Yet, they are tears of joy knowing that Penny will be forever written in so many hearts.

      We were blessed to have her in our lives.

      Thank you so much, dear River.

      Hugs,

      Gary

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  11. I'm so sorry for your loss Gary and Tristan. Sending my love to you both xx
    Run free at the Bridge beautiful Penny x

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    1. Hi Eileen,

      On behalf of my son, thank you kindly. We appreciate your loving thoughts. Penny runs over the Bridge, free to play in the fields of love.

      In gratitude,

      Gary X

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  12. In tears here reading this sad news, I'm so, so sorry to know that Penny has gone to be with the angels and I truly feel the pain and heartache that you and Tristan now share. She was a beautiful, wonderful little girl with so much love to give to her human family, and she will be very much missed on this blog. The header photo with Penny is lovely, please keep it for a while if you can. Sending much love and many hugs to both of you xx
    RIP Penny, run free at Rainbow Bridge sweet girl and fly high with the angels xx

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    1. Hi Eunice,

      Sorry for my long delay in replying. I'm sure you will understand that I'm still trying to come to terms with it all.

      What a wonderful, caring comment, Eunice. She will be very much missed and yet, I sense her all the time, as does my son. Her spirit, all that she taught, forever ingrained in my soul.

      The header photo, taken with the view of The Roaches, near Leek, will be staying there for a while longer. Rest assured of that.

      Rainbow Bridge and beyond. Penny dances with the angels.

      Bless you, my very kind friend.

      Gary xx

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  13. Sorry for your loss. Sure never easy. She gave so much and got a lot in return from you both indeed. Thinking of all the good makes the pain a little better.

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    1. Hi Pat,

      Thank you for that, my nice friend. My son and I shared a mutual love for our amazing little dog. A cherished family member. Yes indeed, we focus on all the positives she brought to our lives.

      Thank you, my poetic friend.

      Gary

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  14. Gary, very, very sorry Penny is gone. She was special and a healer of hearts. She will always be with you. And she will be waiting for you.

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    1. Hi Alec,

      Thank you so much for your comforting words, Alex. She epitomised all that is good with her pure, loving innocence. Yes, she will always be with me and my son. I sense her now as she waits.

      I want to thank you for such a warm mention of her on your always kindly crafted blog site. I'm most grateful to you, Alex.

      With respect and heartfelt thanks,

      Gary

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  15. Gary, my heart breaks for you. I can still tear up thinking about Rocko, who we lost last year - it was also sudden. Penny gave you many years of joy and love. She left paw prints on your heart that will never go away.

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    1. Hi Diane,

      Thank you for your kind thoughts. Your beloved Rocko lives on in your heart and soul. The suddenness is what makes it all the more painful. I'm so sorry but I know that you rejoice in the love shared with Rocko and the rest of your family.

      We were blessed with 18 years of pure joy from Penny. Forever grateful for the paw prints she has left on our hearts.

      Thank you and bless your memory.

      Hugs,

      Gary

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  16. Oh, Gary, my heart breaks for you and Tristan on your great loss. What a wonderful, long life Penny had with so much love surrounding her. How lucky you were to have picked that puppy who gave you so much joy over the years. Our beautiful fur babies lives are never long enough.

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    1. Hi Arleen,

      I appreciate your caring words, my kind friend. We were so very lucky to have her bring such wonderful joy for 18 amazing years. You are so right. Our beautiful fur babies are not here long enough. The place they find in our hearts is eternal.

      In gratitude,

      Gary

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  17. Gary and Tristan, I'm so sad for the loss of your sweet Penny. You were wonderful parents and friends to her and she got and gave so much love over the years. I know she will be missed by all of us. Sending hugs to you at this painful time.

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    1. Hi CraveCute,

      My son and I thank you for the comforting words. Sweet Penny is deep in every fibre of our beings. Her love, a profound lesson that has touched us deeply.

      Her ideals were shared to the world beyond the computer screen.

      We thank you for the hugs, my lovely friend.

      Hugs, your way,

      Gary

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  18. Dear Gary and Tristan, I'm so, so sorry. I've loved reading about sweet Penny over the years, my heart is breaking right now. Love and hugs to you both.

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    1. Hi Barbara,

      Tristan and I thank you for your thoughtful words. I know that Penny loved to share he love with all the world.

      Your love and hugs is truly embraced.

      Thank you, dear Barbara.

      Gary

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  19. Penny brought so much joy to so many people around the world because of your blog, Gary. I knew of what happened through Michelle's blog, and have been sharing your grief and Tristan's for the past month. Thank you so much for this post and for the wonderful masthead photo of Penny roaming free through the countryside. We had our P.J. (white poodle) for 12 years until he had a stroke before our eyes and died an hour later. We couldn't even think of having another dog for four years because it felt disloyal to P.J. Then Jethro (Havanese) came to us and when he left because of congestive heart failure at 9, again we couldn't even think of having another dog for four years. Last December, however, we found Abby (chihuaua & Jack Russell, I think) who had been rescued from a hoarding situation by the local Humane Society. Again, we have fallen in love. All our doggie loves live on in our hearts, none more or less, all equal. I'm so sorry for your loss, Gary, and share your sorrow. This post is a wonderful tribute to Penny.

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    1. Hi rhymeswithplague,

      What a profoundly touching comment, my caring friend. And such is the waves of emotion that I'm experiencing, that I'm only now replying to you.

      You understand the meaning behind the timely masthead photo. You understand the love P.J.had for you and in turn, the love you all had for P.J. I so relate to what you've said. In fact, although I didn't mention it in the post, Penny died of a massive stroke. Thus, I know what you went through. The sense of not having another dog and your reasons, I most assuredly understand.

      Then Jethro came into your lives. The pattern repeated but once again, I understand. Now you have fallen in love with Abby who will be forever grateful to have been rescued from such an awful situation. Your heart and the heart of our cherished dog family members, bring us so many lessons of love, of joy, of always wanting to please with such sweet innocence.

      Thanks again for your words that I'm sure were a cathartic exercise for your good self.

      Penny, always loved, never forgotten.

      In gratitude and empathy,

      Gary

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  20. My eyes and heart are full. Penny was (and will continue to be) a positive force for good in our hearts. Hugs from across the ditch
    #arf #eh

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    1. Hi Jemi,

      You embrace the positive force that Penny instilled in so many hearts. Yes, she and that positive, loving force, lives on.

      Hugs back to you from this side of the swamp.

      Thank you, dear Jemi.

      Gary

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  21. Oh I was just thinking about Penny and I saw your post and then read this. I'm so very sad that she has gone. Your post is a wonderful tribute to her and ensures that she will not be forgotten.

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    1. Hi Jenny,

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Jenny. It means a great deal to me and my son.

      Hugs,

      Gary

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  22. You made all of us love her, and we all cry with you. She bonded so many of us together. Indeed, a true ideal.

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    1. Hi Miss Mae,

      Thank you so much for your thoughtful words. Yes, Penny and all our animal friends, convey a loving ideal we can all learn from.

      Hugs and thanks again,

      Gary

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  23. I loved Penny too and my heart broke when you posted on FB. She was such a special girl.

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    1. Hi JoJo,

      When I put up that announcement on FB, I could barely hold back the tears. Thus, I let them flow for such a special girl. Thank you, my very nice friend.

      In gratitude,

      Gary

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  24. I too, loved Penny. I loved how you incorporated her into everything. I loved her photos (thank you for posting so many of them here. She brought light into all who were lucky enough to read about her. This is a lovely tribute to a little one who will always mean so much to you, and to us. She lived 18 years! That is amazing in itself. She held on because she loved you and Tristan so much, and understood your love for her. Thanks, Gary. She will be missed...

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    1. Hi Lisa,

      Thank you for being part of the love for Penny. Indeed, I wanted to convey her special message to us all. She truly wanted to show us that unconditional love, with such pure innocence, is what it's all about. Yes, she blessed us with 18 joyous years. You are profound because I do believe that she stayed on as long as she could to show how much she loved Tristan and I, to all those on the other side of the computer screen.

      Thank you, dear Lisa.

      Gary

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  25. Hi Gary ... such a pleasure to read your tribute to Penny and to the love you and Tristan have given her over the years. Lisa says it well - I'll be seeing you as you know - with thoughts ... but I'm glad you've written this as a tribute for you all with memories - love the photos too ... cheers Hilary

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    1. Hi Hilary,

      And thank you for reading this tribute, my remarkable friend. Penny was a huge part of our lives. Tristan and Penny grew up together. Lisa stated it so very well. You are quite right about that, Hilary.

      Glad you liked the photos. Look forward to meeting you sometime in the not too distant future.

      Hugs and gratitude,

      Gary

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  26. Thank you Gary ❤️
    Son sob sob sob 😭
    Over the years, Penny seemed like a loving part of our lives, too. I'm grateful for her inspiration, her humor and her powerful presence. Penny Pawesome, internet superstar, immortal.
    Sending you and Tristan love and hugs.

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    1. Hi Vidya,

      Thank you, Vidya.❤😪

      That was her true ideal to share her love with all the world. To touch the humane heart of humanity. Doth, she continues to inspire, for it be true, her love is immortal.

      My son and I embrace the love and hugs.

      Thank you, dear Vidya.

      Gary

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  27. Thank you for sharing her story. So many of us have such a fondness for her. I'm sorry for your loss of sweet Penny, but also glad you had her in your life for all those years.

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    1. Hi Shannon,

      It was my honour to share her story. It heartens my son and I that so many had a fondness for her and all she meant. Thank you for your words of comfort, Shannon.

      Gary

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  28. Gary and Tristan I don't have the words that properly convey how deeply, deeply sorry I am to learn of Penny's passing. My heart is just broken for you. Penny was an icon!! I loved her comments on my posts, she always made me smile. I wish I could see you both to hug you in person. I am always here if I can be of any support. I am so deeply, deeply sorry. Sending prayers of strength and much love.

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    1. Hi Caren,

      My son and I thank you so much for your comment, dear Caren. Penny took great delight in commenting on your wonderful site that beautifully highlights just how precious are animal friends are.

      Your virtual hug is comforting, my nice friend. Your support is treasured. Thanks for all you do.

      Hugs and love, your way,

      Gary

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  29. I'm sobbing, Gary, just reading this post. I can only imagine the grief you and your son are feeling. I'm so sorry for the loss of this angel in your life. I hope that the wonderful memories you have with her will provide some relief. Sending you lots of hugs and healing thoughts xo

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    1. Hi Martha,

      The grief comes in waves. Even now, six weeks later, the pain is still so raw. Yet, amongst the pain is our gratitude that Penny was such a huge part of both our lives for eighteen wonderful years. Thus, as you stated so well, those wonderful memories are what Tristan and I focus on.

      Thank you for those hugs, Martha. It means so much.

      Hugs,

      Gary X (( ))

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  30. I'm so sorry. I started losing dog friends when I was a small child, and my last dog, Bonnie Blue, died six years ago. I say all this to let you know that I probably understand your pain as well as anyone can understand the pain of another.

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    1. Hi Snowbrush,

      Thank you, my kind friend. The loss of our dog friends is pain beyond comprehension. Yet, we both cherish all the shared love they bestow upon us. You and I share that priceless gift that is empathy.

      Bless you,

      Gary

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  31. I have been thinking of you and Tristan these past few weeks since you lost beautiful little Penny. My heart aches for you, but what a wonderful life she had, being loved and cared for. She couldn't have asked for a more loving dad and brother. It doesn't stop it hurting though, does it. I am so sorry xxx

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    1. Hi Teresa,

      My son appreciate your thoughts. It took me ages to finally get around to even attempting this post. It has taken me ages to get back and reply to the comments. Tears on the keyboard made it difficult.

      We shall rejoice in the wonderful life we got to share with our precious Penny. Her human brother and I, her human dad, love her so very much.

      Through the pain, we focus on the love and joy.

      Thank you, dear Teresa.

      Gary Xxo

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  32. A dog is a friend who, when you love them, they love you right back. Unconditionally. She may be gone but memory stays around and will make you smile for a long time. She was lucky to have you. Ginger the cat is sad :-(
    CLICK HERE for Bazza’s ultracrepidarian Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

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    1. Hi Barry,

      And the love of our dog friend, that two-way love, is forever written in our hearts and souls. The memories are magic. Bless you and Ginger.

      Gary

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  33. Gary (and Tristan), it seems so odd that Penny is gone, and my biggest hugs go across the ocean to you both. Thank you for sharing her with the online world we're part of—seeing "her" posts and reading comments that were pawsitively encouraging were always a highlight of this blog and others, and just so much fun. You loved her more fully than anyone else could have.

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    1. Hi Lynda,

      Thank you for your kind comment, Lynda. I still find it difficult to believe that she has left. Although I do sense her presence in a most loving way. Thank you, on behalf of Tristan and I, for those biggest hugs from across the other side of the ocean.

      It was a pleasure to share her wisdom via my blog for all those amazing years. Penny tried to help me with my writing.

      My love and my son's love for Penny is testimony to just how much a dog can steal your heart.

      Thank you and hugs back to your good self.

      Gary

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  34. I'm crying now, Gary. That poor little Penny. I can't believe she's gone. I'm sorry for your loss.

    Blue

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    1. Hi Blue,

      I know, all to well, of the crying. It's one of the reasons I've been struggling to even formulate comments back.

      She's gone and yet she's still here. Thank you, my kind friend. My son and I shall continue to focus of the joy she brought us.

      Peace,

      Gary

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  35. Sending you and Tristan hugs. I have lost three beloved dogs and each was emotionally challenging for me. It sounds like Penny made your life even richer and hopefully your memories with her will make you smile for years to come.
    ~Jess

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    1. Hi Jess,

      We thank you so much for the hugs, my lovely friend. I sense your loss of those three beloved dogs. Cherished family members, indeed. Penny truly enriched our lives. She touched our hearts with joy and continues to do so.

      Smiles,

      Gary

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  36. I too am crying …
    This is a wonderful post and heartfelt tribute.
    My thoughts and condolences are with you and Tristan at this time.

    All the best Jan

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    1. Hi Jan,

      Thank you for sensing the emotion of it all, my kind friend.

      Doing this post, in between bouts of crying, has been a powerful, therapeutic tonic. We thank you for the thoughts and condolences.

      Gary

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  37. What a beautiful and moving tribute to your sweet Penny. My condolences to both you and Tristan. She will be with you forever. Dang it...now I can barely see to type. Safe journies Penny....you will always be loved.

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    1. Hi Delores,

      Thank you for those caring thoughts. It took quite a bit of time before I could even muster up the posting. You are so right. Penny will be with my son, myself and so many, forever. Her safe journey over the Rainbow Bridge makes me feel so good. Your loving comment to us and Penny is truly wonderful.

      Hugs across the sea,

      Gary

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  38. I am so sorry for your loss.

    Through you, Penny brought so much to all of us who read your blog. She spread love and joy.

    Thank you for sharing her with us and my heart goes out to you now.

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    1. Hi fairyhedgehog,

      Thank you, dear friend.

      Absolutely, her ideals of love and joy were lessons for all us humans.

      It was my pleasure to share the love and wisdom of Penny to the world.

      Much kindness, your way,

      Gary


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  39. Such a beautiful tribute to an even more beautiful and special girl. I will miss Penny and I'm so glad I got to meet her through your blog. Many hugs and much love to you and your son, Gary. I am so sorry for your loss.

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    1. Hi Julie,

      Thank you for those kind words. I know that Penny was glad to meet you because she knew just how much you love our animal friends. My son and I embrace your love and hugs, dear Julie.

      Peace and positivity,

      Gary

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  40. Thank you for sharing this, Gary. Penny was a wonderful friend and family member, and I loved her insights in her blogging days. :) Hugs and comfort to you and your son.

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    1. Hi Tyrean,

      It was an honour to share this post, my kind friend. She was very much a companion and a treasured family member. We are touched that you also loved her insights during her internet superstar days. I know she had a huge reaction when she did a guest post on Alex J. Cavanaugh's site. I'm also grateful to him for mentioning her passing.

      Thank you for the hugs and comfort to my son and I.

      In peace,

      Gary

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  41. I'm so sorry to hear about your sweet Penny! She truly had a wonderful life with you and your family.

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    1. Hi Carrie-Anne,

      Thank you for your condolences for our sweet Penny. We sure had a wonderful time with her.

      Thanks again, Carrie-Anne.

      Gary

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  42. It's not easy to lose our long-time canine companions, and you've made Penny an international favorite, so there are a lot us out here sharing your loss and missing her.

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    1. Hi Lee,

      It really is a tough time when our long-time canine companions pass on. I'm heartened that Penny and her wise, loving ideals meant a lot to so many.

      Thank you, dear Lee.

      Gary

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  43. Oh Gary, I just heard and came right over. I am so, so sorry that you and your son lost Penny. She was such a lovely little soul and I enjoyed her posts immensely. Lots of hugs and prayers coming for you and your son. RIP Penny!

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    1. Hi Gwen,

      I appreciate your visit after you read the announcement on Alex's blog. Thank you for comforting words. To know you enjoyed her posts immensely is really nice to know. Thank you for the hugs and prayers to my son and I.

      Thanks again, Gwen.

      Gary

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  44. I missed this post first time around, and only just heard the news via Alex's blog. So sorry to say goodbye to Penny, Gary. This is devastating news! It's heartbreaking to lose a companion who's been such a big part of your life. So sorry to hear this :(

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    1. Hi Ian,

      I'm very pleased you visited, Ian. It was very kind of Alex to make mention of Penny's passing. Penny's presence is still here. I sense her sweet soul watching over my son and I. She had a big impact on our lives. I know she impacted on the lives of so many with her examples of sincere love to humanity.

      Thank you, dear friend.

      Gary

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  45. Hey, I love you man... I know we share our passion for those little creatures... Penny gave you and the world so much.

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    1. Hi Jeremy,

      And, hey good sir, I love you for your tender caring for our beloved animal friends. Penny and all those sweet animals, a beacon of hope to our world.

      Thank you so much, Jeremy.

      Gary

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  46. Gary, I didn't find out until I read someone's post. Oh, Penny. She brought so much joy into your lives and you gave her so much love.

    I am so sorry for your loss.

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    1. Hi Susan,

      Thank you and I'm so grateful to that kind man who announced her passing on his caring blog site. She wanted to spread the joy to the world. Her loving goal was truly realised. My son and I and so many, loved all she stood for.

      Thank you for your comforting words, dear Susan.

      Hugs,

      Gary

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  47. Hi Joylene

    Thank you, dear friend. Yes, Penny was a much loved family member. You got to meet her through the magic of the blogging world. My son and I appreciate your kind words. Her aim was to make a difference to humanity. I feel much comfort knowing she did make a difference.

    I've found it really tough to comment, what with my own bouts of sobbing. Beautiful Penny.

    Bless you, Joylene.

    Gary

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  48. Hi Gary! So sorry to read about Penny. She was a good pup and a true Internet star.

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    1. Hi Ivy,

      Thank you very much for your supportive comment. I'm still struggling with the passing of our beloved Penny.

      Be well, my kind friend.

      Gary

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  49. Hi Gary,

    I just wanted to stop over and let you know I'm thinking of you. I hope you are able to enjoy the holiday during this difficult time.

    Peace and loving memories

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  50. Hi Truedessa,

    Thank you for your kind and compassionate visit. It's going to be a reflective holiday season. My son and I shall dedicate this time to the love we were blessed with from our beautiful Penny.

    In peace and goodwill,

    Gary

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  51. Oh Gary and Tristan. I am so very sorry to hear the news of Penny. I so know how you both feel. Ugh. Pain, like none other. The loss of a pet (particularly a faithful dog) is beyond heartbreaking.
    Please forgive me for being several months late.
    Love and hugs xxxxx
    Wendy aka quillfeather

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    1. Hi Wendy,

      How wonderful to hear from your very kind and thoughtful self. It has been such a long time since we communicated.

      Thank you for your treasured words, Wendy. And yes, my son and I have never known such pain. Yet, through the pain, we both focus on the unconditional love she so gladly shared.

      Bless you and I hope all is well with you, my amazing friend.

      Love and hugs, back to you. Xxx (( ))

      Gary

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  52. Aw my friend. I came back from the mist of the Fantasy world to read this post. I actually by chance opened twitter and noticed you changed your handle name. Then I suspected the moment we all feared finally came. I wished to come here and see when and where did Penny say goodbye. Even though months have passed already, my eyes blur with tears and my heart goes to you. I loved Penny very much. I loved her as I love my own dogs. I'm sorry for your loss and I truly believe that she will be waiting for you at the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, to help you cross and to welcome you to your new home, where all pain and troubles are gone. I send you a Dragon Hug and another for your son. I will always keep Penny alive in my heart. She was an outstanding angel dog...and still is.
    Father Dragon

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    1. Warm greetings, Al,

      I'm terribly late in responding to your thoughtful and caring comment. Apologies for that. I'm sure you will understand that I'm still trying to cope with the passing of our beloved Penny. And yet, Penny is indeed still very much in our hearts and souls.

      I know of your love of dogs, kind sir. For we both know that the love they share with us is indeed infectious. I have been humbled by her and all the dogs out there who show us unconditional love. We humans have much to learn from our animal friends.

      As you know, "Penny's Love Lives On." One day, I shall be there to see her again. In the meantime, a very spiritual occurrence happened to my son, Tristan and I. It will be articulated soon.

      Al, you are missed. Peace and hope, may it continue to beat in your very being.

      Thank you for your soothing thoughts.

      In kindness and goodwill, your friend,

      Gary

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  53. Penny is always with you. Glad to reread your post to remind us of her love.

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  54. My kind friend, thank you for such a heartening comment. Be well and thanks again for rereading.

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I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.