Connected Souls

by Lisa Francine Arciero
(USA, VA)

Shimmer Victoria,

From the first second I saw you, the first time I held you, I knew you were much more than what most would call a dog!

Shimmer, the way you looked at me at first glance, I was able to read your eyes. So beautiful, all you ever wanted was to be loved, nothing more. Just love, that's what I saw in your eyes.

I remember saying to you that I will love you forever, and take the utmost care of you for as long as God allows me to.

Shimmer Victoria, so tiny, snow white, most beautiful little girl.

I grew you strong, kept you warm in the winters and cool in the summers, took care of you as my child.

You loved getting ribbons in your hair and waited for the pretty dresses to go on you.

You learned how to take a pose, as if you knew someday this is all I would have left, photos and memories.

You must know, Shimmer, how much joy you have given to Mommy, how much love, with all the kisses you have given me. It made it possible to still, almost a year later, feel kisses on my face.

The day we met our souls were sewn together and will never be apart.

I know you came back home, I feel you, even see your image many places.

I leave you water and some food beside a photo you most graciously posed for. I light you a candle every day so I may see your precious face shine in the light.

Your bed and animals that you so loved will remain as they always were.

Life for me will never be the same, but I believe we will be together, connected by our souls.

Rest baby girl, because we will have another journey together soon.

I have loved you for 15 years and will love you forever, never forgetting all the joy, the pain you were willing to keep just to be with me, and always trusting my love for you.

Shimmer Victoria, no human could have loved me the way you have.

In my mind I never believed you were a dog.

I thank you for all the smiles you gave to many, for always being gentle and sweet.

Love, Hugs & Kisses

Mommy
Lisa Francine Arciero