“Even if happiness forgets you a little bit, never completely forget about it.” ~ Jacques Prévert
Happiness forgot us for a bit. With the loss of Bella, the house feels quiet and empty to us, and to Bella’s “brother” Jackson. From the moment they met, they had been best playmates and friends.
Only a year separated them – and we hoped nothing else ever would. But sometimes, the universe has other plans.
You can’t will grief away; it takes its own time. But wallowing in it never banished it faster. So, while we mourn our loss, we have to put Jackson’s needs first. And today, he needed some happiness.
We took him on one of his favorite adventures – an early morning hike and swim in the river.
And along the way, we met and made a new friend; her name is Riba.
A few years younger than Jackson –
a powerful ocean-trained swimmer,
and a mighty shaker,
she could probably show him up if she wanted, but they were well matched in personality and play.
When the heart is heavy, create good times and new memories, and eventually, happiness will find you again.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf.” ~ Jon Kabat-Zinn
Gardens For Goldens 
I have to wonder: Did you take Jackson on one of his favorite adventures, or did he take you? I suspect that he will do as much to lift your spirits in the days, weeks, and month to come as you will for his. I also wonder if . . . perhaps. . . Bella sent Riba as a special gift for her little brother. I like to think she did.
Perhaps she did, indeed. Jackson has never met a dog he didn’t like, but rarely does he play as he did with Riba – and used to with Bella. You know what they say “watch for the signs; she is with you.” I like to think that she was with us today. Thank you.
Sweet Bella was definitely there with you all today. With you and for you. She knew you – and Jackson – needed her and so she sent Riba to help lift your spirits. She will find ways in the days to come to let you know she is there with you, even if you can’t see her.
I like the thought of that. Thank you.
What a beautiful healing morning!!
It is great to see Jackson romping, and swimming, and playing with a new friend.
Sweet Bella’s energy is present, she is helping you, Chris and Jackson to heal.This morning Bella’s energy was present in sweet Riba. She’s still with you in so many ways. Thank you for sharing these beautiful images and words, she is
so loved and missed!
She is, indeed. Thank you, Carolyn. It helps to be surrounded by my community here and at Homeward Bound as well. A gift.
Life is so BEAUTIFUL! You prove it.
A wonderful story, wonderful photos and just as wonderful comments from your thoughtful readers. Of course, as usual, made me tear up! 🙂 ❤
Healing one!!! Wow, it will be great support for Jackson!!!!
Hooray for the light scattering through your days; may it keep traveling with you. This day, it took the form of Riba, and the delight shines right off the page in these lovely photos. Gentle peace.
May the happiness return on a regular basis as soon as possible. So glad you had a lovely glimmer of it with Riba and Jackson.
Wonderful story as always. So happy you all had a wonderful day. Bella definitely was with all of you and I believe did send Riba for her brother.
As always, after reading your post, I am teary-eyed and full of goose bumps. Your dear Bella will always be with you…Thank you for your beautiful words, Audrey!
Our hearts are always so torn when we lose those special gifts like Bella — but a day like this goes a long ways to mending it. As always, your sharing your feelings and photography touches my heart, thank you.
Thank you, Joan. It’s a heartache we all know to well. Good friends and good times help us to get through it.
Oh this post warms my heart through the ache it’s feeling for you and Jackson. ❤ ❤
Thank you. We’ll get there…one river date at a time. 🙂
Dear friend, my heart goes out to you – I’m so very sorry for your loss of your sweet Bella. I love the wonderful photos of wet pups, reminds me so much of our Lucy, such a playful waterdog herself. Take care of your heart! Hugs!!
Thank you, Ina. ❤
“…learning to surf” would be good on a t-shirt for me. 🙂 Is Riba a permanent member of your family or a friend? Beautiful post.
It would be good on a t-shirt! Riba is a friend we made on the trail. We hope to meet up with her for more adventures. Someday in the not too distant future, Jackson will find a new companion to share every day adventures with. We’re just not quite there yet.