Our poor Snoopy passed away last week. He was 14 years old and we knew that he might not make it through this winter but, nonetheless, it has not been an easy loss. He was a part of the family in every way possible. We swear that dog could talk.
Explaining death to the kids has been a little challenging. They wanted to go see him but that was something that I didn't want them to see, it was hard enough for me. Brody was crying, saying he didn't get to say goodbye. They couldn't quite understand the concept of Heaven, but we told them that Snoopy was going fishing with Grandpa Sippy and that seemed to make them feel a little better. Mom had Snoopy cremated so we told the kids we could have a going away party in the Spring so they could say their goodbyes.
Thoughtful kids that they are, they wanted to cheer JuJu up. They knew that she was sad and crying so they insisted that we make her happy. Flowers, Dinner, and Cookies were on the list of supplies. It definetely gave her some cheer, that and a session of dancing convinced them that their job had been accomplished. I'm glad that our kids are compassionate enough to not just think of their feelings but to think of others and what they can do to make things better.
We loved Snoopy dearly but know that he is in a good place and is happily running free with Grandpa.
