09/26/2026
My sweet Isabella,
I've been trying to find the words to say goodbye to this tiny little dog who took up such an enormous place in my heart. It hurts so much.
But through the love of friends, I've realized you weren't just my dog. You were part of all of us.
You were a little firecracker with a personality so much bigger than your tiny body. You kept everyone in line—big dogs & people alike—and bowed down to no one. 😂 Sweet and coy one minute, delivering a surprise little snark the next.
You grew up alongside so many of my friends' children, who loved your tiny size, enormous personality, and the way you'd let them cuddle you or howl along with you.
One of the sweetest reminders came from Roan, now in university, who sent me a picture of himself as a little boy holding you, with a message about how much bark you had for such a little dog, and how much they'll miss you. 💜
Friends have reminded me: "Izzy was a part of all of us." "We all loved her." "You're not alone." Those words have meant so much.
And then there was the way you let me love you. You loved being held on your back. I would wrap you in a blanket like a little baby, sway you gently, kiss your little face and sing to you. You would melt into it.
After four miscarriages and the loss of something I had tried so hard to become—a mother—there was a part of me that longed to nurture and care for a little soul.
You didn't replace what I had lost. You were simply being Izzy. But you gave me fifteen years of loving, nurturing, protecting and comforting you—and you comforted me. You filled that empty place as much as you possibly could.
I wasn't ready to say goodbye. I don't think I ever would have been.
Our home feels so quiet, even though you were quiet. Annie knows you're gone. 💔
I've been taking this grief to the river & the lake, with the love and wisdom of my sister Kim. I'm learning not to rush past the tears, sadness and memories.
Letting go doesn't mean leaving you behind. It means learning to carry you with me differently.
Izzy, you were tiny, mighty, stubborn, hilarious, loving, protective, mischievous and completely unforgettable.
Thank you for letting me be your Dog Mom in all the ways that mattered.
Big love = big grief. It was all such an honour, my sweet Isabella. I love & celebrate you. 🤍🙏🏻
