Guest Gretchen Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 I found this letter last night that my dad had written. I cried the entire time I read it but I think it's what Dan would say to me and it made me feel better. It's very personal and special to me but I'm posting it for others who may have lost someone in hopes that find some comfort and peace as well. Wednesday, November 17, 2004 Dear Gretchen, A long time ago I remember a warm summer's day at Harvey's Lake. I was done racing; they didn't want me anymore. I was a good racer and won a lot but I guess it was time to go. There wasn't much to look forward to although I was grateful that someone rescued me. I remember parading around the field looking at all the other strange dogs and people. They seemed to be having a lot of fun, but for me, I was a little apprehensive, That day I also remember a family who kept looking at me. Some of the other dogs thought that this family might be interested in me but I didn't think so. They already had a dog. Besides, I had a bald butt and most of my teeth were broken. I didn't know what to think. But they kept looking and talking and talking and looking. Before I knew it the afternoon was fading and I was crammed into the back seat of a car with these strange people. They had adopted me! I'll always remember the day I met my forever family. It took me awhile to realize that this family loved me-not because I was a fast runner or anything-just because I was me. I know I was a little timid at first. When anyone tried to scratch my ears I was a little frightened but as the days passed I realized that I could trust you. You gave me food and toys and warm fuzzy blankets. Best of all you played with me and talked to me, and you would give me little hugs and kisses. You were there to take care of me not because you had to but because you wanted to. It took some time for me to understand this. I tried to smile but I think I scared Mom a little. Smiling is a greyhound talent most people are unaware of, and as time went on I had more and more to smile about. In the morning I loved to go with Dad to feed the horses. I'd always check for squirrels and ground hogs up by the barn. I relished the chance to gallop up the hill after them but they always seemed to elude me. Still, it was a lot of fun. I know you laughed and thought I was a maniac as I raced around the house and garage and through the garden, but that's how I had fun and showed my happiness. I knew there was always a warm bed or cushiony sofa for me to stretch out on and snooze. You guys were softies letting me nap wherever I wanted to. Come tot think of it, napping was one of my favorite things to do, too. Occasionally I'd encounter a little problem, but you were always there for me. In the yard I'd forget how fast I'd be going or misjudge a turn or just not be paying attention and run in to a tree of something. Ouch! My skin was to thin (aerodynamics you know) that I would get banged up pretty badly. I'm sorry it was so expensive to have me sewn up again and again, but I really appreciate it. The same thing with my tail. It was just too long. One time when it got caught in the car door it really hurt. I'll bet that if you check around the hallway walls and kitchen door you might still find a few blood spots. I just couldn't help wagging my tail. And why not. I was the luckiest dog in the world magically going from nothing to everything. I had my own bed and could sleep with Mom and Dad. Their snoring never bothered me! I had special coats to keep me warm in the winter. All the other dogs envied my blaze orange hunting coat. You would always bring me stuffed toys to play with. Once in awhile I'd be a little rough with them and destroy them, but that's part of the greyhound code too. I just loved my basket of toys. The blankies you gave me were wonderful. All the time you guys would give me treats and slip me food under the table. Dad was always an easy touch. Everything I ever needed or wanted was always there for me but most of all I valued your unconditional love. True, I did have a few quirks. Eventually you grew accustomed to me gently nudging your wrist with my nose to remind you that you were supposed to pet me. I'd try to look regal by lifting my nose in the air and adopting a look of detached disinterest. You caught on, though. I know I had a bad habit of rummaging through the kitchen garbage but I couldn't help it. There was so much interesting stuff in there. Sorry about the nose prints on the windows and doors but that's what greyhounds do. My long gangly legs were always in the way when I stretched out on the floor, but you all were so good about not tripping on them. Although I was a lousy watchdog, I always kept one eye open for you so I could be ready to greet you at the door. I looked forward to going in to work with Dad and you. As you know, I had many admirers. The people were nice, and I really liked riding in the car. I think I would have liked to have ridden with my head out the window but you were always concerned about my safety and well being. Those were fun days. Do you recall walking me and Robbie behind the Burger King at lunchtime? I'm glad you found your wallet that one day because I would have felt really badly had you not. In the nice weather I loved to lay on the bank in the soft green grass behind the house and soak up the sun's rays. It's so comfy back there. Many times I'd drift off and dream doggy dreams. I could also keep an eye out for approaching squirrels. It was so nice. I can't believe my good fortune to have stumbled upon my forever family and espically my forever mistress. And that's why I asked Dad to write this letter for me. I love you so much that it pains me to know that you're so sad and carry such a heavy heart. As with all things, my time to be in another place had arrived. I really appreciate everything you did for me these last few months. After all the years you still held me dear as you'd to buy more medicines, mix up special foods, take me to the vet, and offer me the best sirloin tidbits I ever ate. And know that it was very special for me to have those dearest to me surrounding me with all their love at the very end. Thank you so much for letting go. That must have been very hard. I have a special wish for you, Gretchen. And while it may not be possible at this particular moment in time, I want you to be content and happy and enjoy life as I did with my forever family. Yesterday was a rough day. Grieve as you must but don't dwell on it. As I said, I'm in another place now according to a plan laid out for me. I don't know why fate brought us together; however, I treasure every moment with you and am much the richer for it. I had the best time and was the luckiest dog in the world. I know you are very sad; full of sorrow and emptiness. Time is the only remedy. Yes, in one sense I am with you no longer. But maybe this thought will help. You are forever in my heart as I know I live forever in your heart because we are forever friends and buddies. I love you as you love me. Our bond is meant to bring joy and happiness, and this is what I want for you. That's what I want you to know. It's time for me to move on now. I think there's a squirrel I may want to chase or maybe I'll just snooze a little and dream doggy dreams. Perhaps it's almost time for you to move on, too. I love you, Danny Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silverfish Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 That was such a beautiful letter - I have tears in my eyes, but not entirely sad tears. What a wonderful thing for your Dad to have done. I'm so sorry you lost your beautiful Dan - he was a gorgeous looking dog and it sounds as if he was an amazing companion, too. Quote The plural of anecdote is not dataBrambleberry Greyhounds My Etsy Shop Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest 8_Greyt_Greys Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 That is so beautiful.Your dad is a wonderful person. Im so sorry about your loss.He was a beautiful boy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest DogGone Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 I am so sorry for your loss. Both your Dad and Dan are very special. Thank you so much for sharing your letter. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest trevdog Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 How caring of your Dad. He is truly a special person. Godspeed, sweet Dan Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GreytMaxsMom Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Whew! What a tear jerker, but absolutely beautiful. I always wonder what my dogs are really thinking. Thanks for sharing and know that there are others who have been where you are and know your pain. I hope you can find some comfort in knowing that. Mindy Quote Mom to Max (grey), Buttermilk (grey) and Winston (iggy) and Skinkids, Ally and Ben! In loving memory of Angels Chelsey(Weim), whom we lost on August 26, 2004, Majestic(Chow) on November 20, 2005, on October 5, 2007, we lost Natasha(lab mix), and on May 28, 2009 we lost our greyhound Ike born 7/31/2005 You were too young to go!!!! We lost Monte(Whippet) on September 23, 2009. We miss you all! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Lala Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 What a beautiful letter. Thank you for sharing it with us. I'm truly sorry for your loss. God speed sweet boy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CleosMom Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Thank you for sharing your letter with us. Your Dad and Dan are both very special. Quote Jennifer Cleo (Golddust Cadilac 83484 Blazing Desire X Greys Blu Fox) Cole (Hallo Jeremy 88778 My Rooster X Bahama Tango) Athena (R and a Peach 93839 Coldwater Guv X R and a Lady) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sighthounds4me Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Oh my! No words can describe how that letter makes me feel. So happy, yet sad...I can't imagine how you feel! Gretchen, he will love you always! Quote Sarah, the human, Henley, and Armani the Borzoi boys, and Brubeck the Deerhound.Always in our hearts, Gunnar, Naples the Greyhounds, Cooper and Manero, the Borzoi, and King-kitty, at the Rainbow Bridge. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Madeara Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 <where are my tissues> a hug to you and please give your dad a hug from me Quote "To err is human, to forgive, canine" Audrey, Nova, Cosmo and Holden in NY - Darius and Asia you are both irreplaceable and will be forever in my heart Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
iluvgreys Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Very touching and comforting... Quote Jeanne with Remington & Scooter the cat....and Beloved Bridge Angels Sandee, Shari, Wells, Derby, Phoenix, Jerry Lee and Finnian.....If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heavenand bring you home again. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robinw Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Quote Xavi the galgo and Peter the cat. Missing Iker the galgo ?-Feb.9/19, Treasure (USS Treasure) April 12/01-May 6/13, Phoenix (Hallo Top Son) Dec.14/99-June 4/11 and Loca (Reko Swahili) Oct.9/95 - June 1/09, Allen the boss cat, died late November, 2021, age 19. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest lizmego Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Whaaaaaa, you made me cry right before a staff meeting!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Greymom Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 I shouldn't have read this beautiful letter at work. Run free sweet Dan. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PatricksMom Posted November 19, 2004 Share Posted November 19, 2004 Now I'm crying. What a beautiful letter about the love between a dog and his family--thank you for sharing it with us. Quote Beth, Petey (8 September 2018- ), and Faith (22 March 2019). Godspeed Patrick (28 April 1999 - 5 August 2012), Murphy (23 June 2004 - 27 July 2013), Leo (1 May 2009 - 27 January 2020), and Henry (10 August 2010 - 7 August 2020), you were loved more than you can know. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tracey Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 I cried through the whole letter. Your Dad is really wonderful to have written that, and I'm certain it's what Danny would want you to know. What a special dog and a special father. Quote ...............Chase (FTH Smooth Talker), Morgan (Cata), Reggie (Gable Caney), Rufus (Reward RJ). Fosters check in, but they don't check out. Forever loved -- Cosmo (System Br Mynoel), March 11, 2002 - October 8, 2009.Miss Cosmo was a lady. And a lady always knows when to leave. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Lexus Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 This was so special. What a caring, loving dad to have been able to write this. Beautiful, as was your Dan. Thank you for sharing Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TheFullHouse Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 You are very lucky to have two very special guys in your life. Your dad is a wonderful person to give you such a beautiful letter and Dan sounds like he was the love of your life. Quote Judy, mom to Darth Vader, Bandita, And Angel Forever in our hearts, DeeYoGee, Dani, Emmy, Andy, Heart, Saint, Valentino, Arrow, Gee, Bebe, Jilly Bean, Bullitt, Pistol, Junior, Sammie, Joey, Gizmo, Do Bee Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest AmberDMC Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 Thank you for sharing that How thoughtful and caring of your Dad... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
patricia Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 Thank you for sharing Dan's story. Run free sweet baby. Quote Patti-Mommy of Lady Sophia 7-28-92 - 8-3-04... LaceyLaine 8-2-94-12-5-07... Flash Gordon 7-14-99 - 8-29-09... BrookLynne...Pavé Maria... and 18 Bridge Kids. WATCHING OVER US~SOPHIA~QUEENIE~LACEY LAINE~ CODY ANGELO~FLASH GORDON. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest BleusysMom Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 (edited) Hugs.....Wonderful Thank You for Sharing....Your Dan is Your Own Special Angel andi & Bleu Man Spirit Hound Edited November 20, 2004 by Bleusys Mom Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Broodmama Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 You and your dad must be very close. Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute to a special hound. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Manta Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 thank you so much for sharing this Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Gretchen Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 You are very lucky to have two very special guys in your life. Your dad is a wonderful person to give you such a beautiful letter and Dan sounds like he was the love of your life. 1114831[/snapback] You know I always told people Dan was the love of my life. I think they thought I was only joking, but I wasn't. There was/is something about him that made him special to me and I still can't talk about him without getting choked up. I believe the letter is what Dan would say to me and what a lot of dogs would say to their loved ones. It brings back so many memories of Dan, which gives me a lot of comfort and I will always be grateful to my dad for that. This afternoon my dad and I planted a weeping cherry tree by Dan's grave, I think a fitting tribute to an amazing and one-of-a-kind pup. I definitely inherited my love of animals from my dad. Thank you Dad. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Greytlady94 Posted November 20, 2004 Share Posted November 20, 2004 I am so sorry that Dan is gone from your side but he is forever in your heart. Your Dad must be a very special man. Quote Greyhound angels at the bridge- Casey, Charlie, Maggie, Molly, Renie, Lucy & Teddy. Beagle angels Peanut and Charlie. And to all the 4 legged Bridge souls who have touched my heart, thank you. When a greyhound looks into you eyes it seems they touch your very soul. "A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more then he loves himself". Josh Billings Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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