I have a few of those little boxes and pawprint plaques, too. It's hard...

For the first time, I decided that I'm past digging pet graves.

We had the little guy cremated. I had every intention of burying the urn using a post hole digger. Now I can't bring myself to do so. The little urn is pretty and doesn't take up much room on a shelf. I'm getting sentimental in my old age.

...a few days ago, I shared this idea on terminology -

"In our family, we have chosen to call this most difficult decision "liberating the spirit."

I came up with the idea because it has a gentler feel to it than all the other usual terms. Put to sleep isn't accurate - we wish they were only sleeping. Euthanize sounds cold and clinical. Put down sounds harsh.

It helps a little.

Please know this is not criticism, just a thought that I found to be a bit of a balm to a grieving heart.

I like liberating the spirit much better.

Your kindness is appreciated.

It never gets easier, does it?

I tell myself that the price we pay for our pet's love is their shorter life span. The love justifies the grief.

Please be very gentle with yourself as you heal.

Healing vibes on the way to you & Martini.