The Sparkle in my Life
March 2009 to October 2019
My dearest Sparky,
Even though you have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, I feel your warm spirit and vibrant energy beside me. Oh, the adventures we had! From the oceans to the desert and the mountains. Joy was our middle name.
From the moment I laid eyes on you as a six-month-old skinny pup from Baja, I knew we were destined to be best friends. The way you nuzzled my neck and clung to me tugged at my heart. Of course, those big pointy curious ears, bunny-soft tan, and white fur and a tail that curled tightly above your back endeared you to me forever. I called you my Lucky Leprechaun and honored you with a birthdate of St. Patty’s Day.
You must have been an old soul. Your calm nature and steady loyalty always reassured me that life was good. I never felt alone with you here. Whenever I came home, you were right there at the garage door, ready to greet me and run circles in the yard to show me how happy you were.
You were so brave to travel with Mom and me on our road trips. We loved our male escort! People always commented on your good behavior. I was always so proud of you.
Read about Sparky’s travels in his own words.
I especially loved watching you at the beach as you chased the ball with all your might and waded into the water to cool off. Most times, you dropped the ball in the water, requiring me to fetch it for you! Your frolicking deer-like dances in and out of the surf always made me giggle. Somehow, I knew you did this to entertain me.
We were both there for each other, like a marriage—a solid commitment, a relationship so strong and tight it defied reason, a soul connection at the deepest level possible. There will never be another one of you. I honor your spirit and am grateful for the perfect 10 years we shared together. I miss you every day.
I love you always and forever. May our paths meet again someday. Please.
Mom XXOO
“Dogs, lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know the pain is coming, you’re going to lose a dog, and there’s going to be great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with her, never fail to share her joy or delight in her innocence, because you can’t support the illusion that a dog can be your lifelong companion. There’s such beauty in the hard honesty of that, in accepting and giving love while always aware that it comes with an unbearable price. Maybe loving dogs is a way we do penance for all the other illusions we allow ourselves and the mistakes we make because of those illusions.”
― Dean Koontz, The Darkest Evening of the Year
“A dog doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his.”
― John Grogan, Marley and Me: Life and Love With the World’s Worst Dog
dearest Mary
As soon as sweet Sparky passed on the rainbow bridge Michelle and Jack was there to greet him with welcoming hugs and kisses and a fresh bone just for him. Michelle and I often talked of “when we retire” plans to move to a place where we could give our special furbabies a place to rest or play until our parents come to get us……………. you had a sweet relationship with Sparky in the same way that Michelle had with her Jack…………they now play with all our special furbabies waiting for us…………..luv u/jane
Mary, this is such a beautiful tribute to Sparky and the deep bond you shared with him! I know it went both ways, Sparky was lucky to have YOU. Every St Patricks Day you can lift a toast to the JOY you shared with your frolicking pup!
I am so sorry that Sparky is no longer at your side, in body if not in spirit. Dogs are given to us to walk with us only part way along our journey, but they are there to help us find the path.
Mary,
I am so very sorry. Sparky was an extraordinary being- loving and wise. You brought each other so much sunshine.
Thank you Carolyn. It has taken me three months to write this – I’ve been so devastated over his unexpected departure. I appreciate your kind words. XXOO
Thank you sis for the words of wisdom. They are meaningful and I will take them to heart. XXOO
Thank you for the happy thoughts Jolie. Yes, St. Patty’s Day will always be his day! XXOO
Sparky is loving the bone! Thank you Jane for thinking of us. I know how you miss your beautiful family as well. Sending you love. XXOO
Beautiful memories Mary. I know Sparky lives on in your heart. Thank you for the heartfelt story.
Love you
Sparky was such a gift… Hang in there, Mary.
Such a beautiful tribute Mary.. Your love is felt in this world and surely the next. Sparky was an incredible companion. You did him right. Hugs…
Mary,
Thank you for your vulnerability in sharing your heart feelings about Sparky and the wonderful quotes. I always admire your ability to put feelings into words.
So sorry your Sparky is gone but so glad you shared ten years together.
Love,
Jill
Mayr Your love of all your dogs has always been amazing, but Sparky was and is exceptional in the bond the pair of you two shared the past couple of years.
His personality bloomed and he became your joyous companion. We all miss him. Xxx Aunt B
Thanks so much for these sweet words Barb. He was my love. XXXOOO
Thank you so much Jill. I know you realize the pain of losing a pet and people too. You are my role model for handling grief with grace and hope. Love to you XXOO
Dear Mary,
It was such an honor to meet dear Sparky when he came to Boulder with you and your mom. This is the most beautiful tribute to dear Sparky. We know the joy of love and pain of loss. They touch us so deeply and change our lives, always for the best.
Much love,
Linda & Carl