08/22/2022
It has been one of the most challenging weeks Brian and I have had in a very long time, and I don't quite see life ever being the same. After nearly 13 years and 8 1/2 of them at mine and Brian's side, Benny has crossed the rainbow bridge.
Benny was indeed the best dog. We even have some friends with dogs that would still claim Benny as one of the best. He loved cucumbers, carrots, blankets, car rides, sun bathing, long walks with Brian, long morning snuggles with me, Wendy's chicken nuggs, and above all, every human he ever met.
Even though we knew Benny's time would come, it was all too sudden last week. Have you ever lost a pet and felt the void left behind could never be filled? We have so many memories with Benny. Brian and I only lived together for two months in Jacksonville without him, and now here we are all these years later. And for the last 3,067 days, I walked into our homes/apartments and was greeted by his happy and smiling face. Doing something as simple as walking into our home has become one of the heaviest tasks.
Benny is the best thing I found in Jacksonville.
Events carry so many memories and can harness so much remembrance of others that are no longer there. Today I want to hold space for the golden memories and the heartache. Having Benny at our wedding was a 100% must and non-negotiable. He spent the whole weekend with the entire bridal party at our Airbnb, and one of my savored memories was just Benny and me on the drive down to St. Augustine before the weekend of wedding festivities. It wouldn't have been a wedding without our infamous picture on Magnolia Street.
Thank you to our friends and family for caring and loving on Brian and me during this time. Also, to all my couples and future couples for your patience this past week. Squeeze your pets extra tight for me.