Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Thank You

For all the sweet, caring, and sincere comments, emails, and messages. It means alot knowing there are others who understand my being upset over losing a goat. Yes, Lester was a goat but he was also so much more. When he got pneumonia a day after he was born I was hoping he would get well quickly and go back to his mom and brother. When his immune system never got stronger and he kept catching colds I knew he would never be with the other goats and would be my little Lester. When he didn't grow even though he ate and drank really well I knew he wouldn't live to be a old goat. When he started getting out of breath when he ran ( for him it was a fast walk) or got tired following me around the house I knew he didn't have a long life ahead. When he just wanted to be held last Friday and wanted me right there with him every minute I knew he knew his time was growing short. I sat and rocked him most of the day. I cuddled him close and tried to talk him into hanging on and being strong so he could make it. When his little heart beat got weaker I knew it was time to say goodbye. I held him close as I rocked him. I whispered stories of the special Hidden Haven animals waiting on the other side of the bridge for him. I whispered to him about a very special lady named Ms. Fran who I knew would be there to watch over him. I sang his special bedtime songs to him. I rocked and cried and told my special friend goodbye. He raised his head, gave me a smile and took his last breath. Lester is buried in a very special spot in my herb garden. Where he napped in the sun or followed me around while I worked. We spent many hours there and now I have a special place to sit in the herb garden to talk to Lester. To tell him stories about the animals here, to tell him how I miss and love him. A place just to sit and enjoy the precious memories of a very special, precious little goat that stole my heart.

This is the last picture taken of Lester 2 days before he died.

12 comments:

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Oh Peggy... Makes me so teary.... I am so sorry --and so sad for Lester (and for you). You knew he didn't have much time on this earth --but you gave him so many days/nights of love... That was so good for you to do that. BUT--I know you are grieving and I am so sorry...

God Bless You.
Hugs,
Betsy

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry, Peggy. Miss Fran greeted him with a smile I am sure! God bless you friend.

Rain said...

I am so sorry for your loss Peggy-but I'm also so glad he had his short time here on earth with you-because your love and caring is so sincere and complete. Blessings to you~Rain

Lib said...

What Sweet memories, what a wonderful Mom you were to Little Lester!
Bless you Sweet Friend!
Lib

amelia said...

I've already said it all, you know how I feel.
I hope you'll feel better, little bit by little bit..

Sarah said...

Peggy- thank you so much for sharing more of Lester's story. Sorry my comment the other day didn't make sense- I was crying after reading about Lester passing. What a lucky little goat to have found someone who loved him like you did! I was reading the most current issue of Country magazine and it had a wonderful story about losing a pet and how much our animals mean to us if you're interested. Its called Scouts Last Ride http://www.country-magazine.com/
My thoughts and hugs go out to you.

DayPhoto said...

You are so special Peggy. You have me crying. I really believe you are an angel on this earth just for everyone whose lives you touch!

Linda
http://coloradofarmlife.wordpress.com

Rose @ Confessions of a Curbshopaholic said...

Oh dear, what a touching sad story! I'm so sorry for your loss, yet happy that he had a special life, as short as it was. It's hard to let go of a pet we connect with. Hugs,
Rose

Carole Burant said...

Oh, sis, I've got tears in my eyes after reading this. You love these animals with all your heart and it's no wonder you take their death so hard. Lester was so blessed that he had your love and care in the little time he had on earth. I have no doubt that Ms. Fran is taking good care of him:-) Love you, sis. xoxo

Anonymous said...

I know how it is to lose a beloved pet since I've been there many times, it's never easy! We just recently had to put my brother's Boston Terrier/Beagle mix to sleep.

Blessings,

Amy

Kelly said...

Dearest Peggy,
I don't know how we can take such loving care of these little creatures and not grieve their passing. Nitro will be near to welcome Lester home. It is us here who cry and miss them. I know how you are feeling and hope that tightness in your chest lessens soon. Much Love.
Kelly

Tracy Bruring said...

Peggy I am sorry I haven't been keeping up. I am sorry for your loss