Final resting place

Photos of Nova (2007) courtesy of Corrine Sellars

My dear, sweet Nova returned home to her final resting place on June 19. Of course, she didn't return in the state and form I wanted her in - alive, healthy and bouncy. Instead, her ashes are in an engraved cedar chest, next to my bed and her purple collar will lay there too. Memories of Nova, her love and the joy she brought me will be buried in my heart forever. Fortunately I have so many wonderful photos and videos of Nova over the years that I will be able to relive our wonderful years together.

My friend Chrissie Diron, who owned Shandy, Nova's daughter, sent me the following. I can't read it with sobbing but it hits home how fragile and fleeting a dog's (or person's) time is on this earth. Nova is somewhere where I can't see or hear her but I hope we will be reunited one day. Nova, I love you and miss you so much. Rest in peace.

"I'll lend you, for a little while, a dog of mine," HE said.

"For you to love while she lives, and mourn when she is dead.

It may be but two or three years, or maybe twenty-three,

But will you, till I call her back, take care of her for me?

She'll bring her charms to gladden you, and shall her stay be brief,

You'll have her lovely memories as solace for your grief.

I cannot promise she will stay, as all from earth return,

But there are lessons taught down there I want this dog to learn.

I've looked the whole world over in my search for teachers true,

And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes, I have selected you.

Now will you give her all your love - not think this labor vain,

Nor hate me when I come to call, to take her back again?"

I fancied that I heard them say, Dear Lord, thy will be done.'

For all the joys this dog shall bring, the risk of grief we'll run.

We'll shower her with tenderness and love her while we may,

And for the happiness we've known, forever grateful stay.

And should the angels call for her much sooner than we planned,

We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand.

"If by your love, you've managed, my wishes to achieve,

In memory of Nova that you've loved, be thankful, do not grieve."

"I will lend you a dog", God said, "and teach you all you have to do.

And when I call her back to Heaven, you will know she loved you too."

Cherish every moment of your furry charges. They fill your home with barks of joy.

Let not Nova's passing take from you those memories to enjoy...............

Thank you Chrissie.