Lila



January 19, 1992 - December 26, 2004

Beloved Pet and Beautiful Collie Girl

Lila, you came to us at a time when life was very chaotic, and we needed someone special to remind us of the simple joys - the happiness of taking time to run, play, and laugh. Your beauty and grace, and your playful ways made our worries seem smaller and our days happier. You grew up with Jessica, Nicholas, Kathryn, and Greta and became their friend, protector, and faithful, loving companion. They will never forget your games of chase, Hide & Seek, "transpoting" their socks, and your frequent "herding" of them, to keep track of them all outdoors!

To me, you were another of my children, who became my confidante, my hiking buddy, and my companion in good times and in times of sadness. There were many times when I was overwhelmed with all the responsibilities of raising 4 children, so I didn't give you as much attention as I wanted to. But you did not judge me. You merely loved me, without conditions, and without demanding anything of me. And despite my moods, you were always there at the door when I came home, ready to love me and accept me, just as I was.

Your proud, strong spirit inspired me, day after day, but never so much as in your later years when, despite suffering arthritis, you always jumped up eagerly and ran to the door when I asked if you wanted to take a walk! And, oh.... our walks...! The little children and people of all ages in our neighborhood absolutely LOVED to see you coming down the street. They were fascinated by your beauty and your gentle spirit. And since you've left us, they have missed you, too. One little boy asked me about you and, upon hearing that you had passed away, he said, with a very whimsical look on his face, "OH..... She was such a BEAUTIFUL dog..." And so you were...! You will ALWAYS be my little "doll," and we shall NEVER forget you. It gives us great pleasure to look through photo albums from the past 13 years and to see the pictures of you, present for all those wonderful growing-up years of our lives.

In honor of you, we have adopted another pet, because you helped us to understand that life without a dog isn't much fun! And our new pet loves her walks, too. But whenever we walk together, I think of you - the one pet who could walk unleashed, because "walks," to you were such a pleasurable event - not a time to run off or chase other animals, but rather, a time for companionship, and a time to enjoy the earth, wind, and sky at the side of those who loved you. Perhaps you will be a spirit guide for our new pet, so she can also grow in confidence and grace, as you did.

There are many beautiful collies in this world, but none so beautiful as you, Lila. You were the epitomy of all that is unique and beautiful to the collie breed. And as family pets go, you were "one in a million!" Our family grieves your absence, but we also celebrate your life, because YOU taught US more than we ever taught you! The love you gave us is one of the greatest gifts of a lifetime, my little Doll, and we will cherish you in our hearts until that day when we join you for a long walk in paradise. Rest well, be happy, and please continue to watch over us, as you have always done until, one by one, we come to you for that long-awaited walk!

We shall love you forever and always,

Margaret and the kids