Doggy Heaven

Before Christmas 2004, we had our oldest dog, Mystery, put to sleep. She was 14 years old & had suffered from arthritis for so long. We felt putting her to sleep was the most humane way to end her life. This was my dog since 1990, so I asked Sammy to please take her while the kids & I were away visiting my parents. I didn't want to have to take her myself & I really didn't want to be there when it happened. She was a very special member of our family. So, while we were gone, Sammy did the deed & then told me about it later. Anyway, fast forward to 2006... the kids have been asking a lot about Mystery lately. It's amazing to me how much they remember, since they were only 2 at the time. But, they ask for her constantly. And, they ask if we can go get her & bring her home. I've given them the "cutesy" simple answer that Mystery is in Doggy Heaven and she is healthy & happy and she wants to stay there because she likes it there. Sometimes they'll protest, but they mostly give in & move on to another topic. Well, this evening, the twins & I were running errands around town. We were going to Old Navy, which happens to be right next door to Petco, which is where we take our youngest dog, Dallas, to be groomed. So, while I was parking, Sydney points to Petco & asks me, "Mommy, is that doggy Heaven? Are we going to get Mystery?" It was so cute & so sad at the same time. I guess I need to explain Doggy Heaven a little better...