One thing I’ve always promised you since I started this blog was to remain genuine and authentic. So, when something personal is going on in my life, I feel it’s only right to share that with you as well.
If you follow my Instagram account, you already know that this past week my dog passed away. When I first got Liat almost 14 years ago, I knew that one day I would have to say goodbye to her. That being said, I always thought that somehow I would be able to take such good care of her that that day would never come.
Unfortunately, that day did come. Through this heartbreaking ordeal there are a few things I’ve learned. The first, is to share with others what is going on. Friends, family, colleagues, even strangers were so thoughtful and willing to be there for me. They rallied to support me both while Liat was sick and after she passed.
The second thing I’ve learned is to accept the level of grief that you feel. Liat was just as important to me as a family member and losing her shook me to my core. I literally had to rely on people to help me stand up and get through basic functions after she passed. I never apologized for the deep despair I was feeling and never hid my level of sadness.
The third thing, that I’m in the process of trying to learn myself, is that it will get better with time. Right now it seems impossible to imagine that there will be a day that I wake up and don’t feel profound sadness, but I know slowly over time it will happen.
I will always love Liat and she will always hold a special place in my heart. She was the most well natured, kind, and loving dog with the sweetest personality. I feel honored that I got to share so many years with her and I will always love her with all my heart.
I love you Liat. Thanks for being the best friend I could ask for.
Yael- I follow your blog because I find you to be a strong and inspirational woman who is unapologetically glamorous. I’ve never commented on blogs before until today. I have enjoyed your pics of this beautiful pup and can relate. My husband and I delayed having children because I feared I could never loved them as much as Tobie, our chocolate lab. Our pets become a part of our family and identity. So of course it is expected that we grieve when we lose family and a piece of ourselves. I still grieve for Tobie to this day, 9 yrs later. We now have a 2nd adopted dog who’s been with us for 8 yrs and also a 5 yr old human boy now. :-) Stay strong, enjoy the love and memories she gave you. She was a lucky pup to have had so many years with you
Hi Mo,
Thanks so much for your thoughtful message. It really warmed my heart and I appreciate you being so open and honest with me. Lots of love xx yael
So sorry Yael. Liat was a beautiful pup. The love of a dog is an amazing gift.
Hi Sharon,
I completely agreed about dogs being an amazing gift. I feel so blessed to have had her in my life. xx yael
I am so very saddened to hear about your friend. This is a tough time and you will be ok. Pets are awesome and cherished. She will always be with you :)
Aww thanks sweetie. Hope to see you soon. xx
Dear Yael, I have no words to express how sorry I am for your loss. I know there is nothing I could say to alleviate the pain you may be feeling right now. Losing a loved one is not easy at all but unfortunately an event that we get to experience at one point in our life. Although I haven’t lost anyone close to me, I live with the knowing that it is something I will have to face one day and even thought I have learned to understand that we are eternal and that we get to reunite again in the other realm, is the thought of the void and emptiness I will be feeling what my human mind can’t seem to assimilate and accept. This is a turning point in your life Yael. The pain your heart is feeling right now is inevitable but in Liat’s memory you can make it something positive. Liat will always be with you, in your heart and from now on she will be your guardian angel. You gave her the best life she could have ever asked for and for that she will be eternally thankful. This experience is an opportunity for you to grow and see life from a different angle. It will make you stronger and wiser and even though you may not see it now, you will eventually experience the gifts that God, in Liat’s behalf, has awaiting for you. You gave the best of you to her and that by itself is God’s manifestation of love that through you, he allowed us to see. You were an instrument of his love Yael. Liat right now doesn’t know any better. She can still feel your emotions just like she did when she was physically next to you. The difference is that now you can’t physically see her or touch her but you can still connect with her, send her all your love and see her with the eyes of your heart. She will feel it and appreciate it just like she always did-) And most importantly, she wants to see her eternal loving and amazing mommy be happy and free:-) Sending you all my love Yael. Lots of blessings going your way. XOXO, Jeannette
http://www.msjeannieandhercloset.com
Jeannette,
You are one of the kindest people I know. Your messages are always so considerate and this message just shows how genuine and thoughtful you are. I re-read your message several times because it really resonated with me. I truly appreciate your taking the time to write such a caring message. love, yael xx
Yael,
My heart is so heavy with hearing your news. Louie is my first dog, and so often I’ve said it’s like having another child! Literally, I did not know I could love a dog so very much.
If you ever feel like you need a getaway, you know where Brett and I are and you’re always welcome for a visit. I’d love to see you!
Surround yourself with lots of family, friends & all the love they have for you. The year of the “firsts” is always hard, but with loved ones you will endure. If you ever need to just gab, you know how to find me.
Talk soon & take care. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.❤️❤️??
Hi sweetie. So nice to hear from you. I know how excited you were to get Louie and he is seriously the cutest. I am so excited for all the amazing times and memories that you will create together. I will definitely take you up on your offer one of these days because I would love to see you too. Love you xx
Hugs to you. I lost my dear friend back in January and still have moments when I miss her terribly.
Hi Chris,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending lots of love your way. xx
I’m so sorry for your loss, Yael. Liat knew you loved her and that’s the best gift you could have given her <3
Aww thanks Laurel. I know we “met” over our love for animals over Instagram and I know you understand the love that is shared between people and their pets. xx yael
I am sorry for your loss. My cairn terrier is 16 and your post helps me to better come to grips with the inevitable. Sincere thanks for sharing. Again, sorry you lost your sweetie.
Actually, my Nicholas passed yesterday, and I cried my eyes out, which I know is ok. You’re post was very timely.
Oh Kate, I am so sorry for your loss. I completely understand what you are going through and I’m sending so much love your way. If you need to talk, feel free to reach out to me via email. I’ll have you in my thoughts. Lots of love xx yael