Happy Birthday over the Bridge

Shelby would have turned 16 today. Able to drive but we all know she was always the driver in our relationship!!! I miss that sweet girl so much. Last year I remember writing a blog about how in my mind, I always thought Shelby would make it to 15 and she did not (she passed at 13 1/2)… young and old at the same time. As I look back on her photos of her amazing life, her travels, her journeys… I can finally see how she aged. When we were together, time stood still. I never saw the grey in her face or the crows feet on my eyes. I never saw anything other than “just in the moment” until those moments became precious and I spent each day of her illness wondering “is today the day”?

And today, I can look back, finally and on most days, and remember the good (when I can remember anything at all – my brain seems use some coping mechanism to block out anything that it perceives as painful). But I am staring at Shelby photos today … willing her to be real again in my eyes.

I am hoping for a sign of some sort but I am sure she is being festive over the bridge with her new pals… those that joined before us and those after. I know Shelby is the welcome girl – with her tiara and always willing to sniff a butt to make a new friend.

Shelby was the kindest, most gentle dog you would ever meet. She loved people and dogs alike. She feared almost nothing. She radiated joy. She was always happy! From day one … when I met her at the shelter, she embraced me with a hug and a tail wag and begged me to bring her home. We had many adventures … not as many as I would like since we discovered the joy of traveling together later in life but we made those trips count. To the wineries, the beach, coffee shops, just out for dinner. I loved spending time with Shelby!

So happy birthday my best girl, the love of my life, my soul mate and heart dog … I will definitely toast in your honor later! I miss you forever and love you to the moon and back and for all infinity!

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Our first outing … “Yappy Hour” … Shelby always let me hold her like a baby!
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Just love … at the dog beach! One of our favorite places!
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Mommy … is green my color?!
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Oh mommy… but why? Why, why, why??
Baby Shelby ... her first day home.
Baby Shelby … her first day home.
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this face!!! This is the face I fell madly in love with over 17 years ago and who rescued me!
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I can’t even tell if this is a Tripawd Shelby or not but either way … this was our life … toys, more toys and fluff!

Author: mom2shelby

Mom to 13 year old Shelby - Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. A rescue dog that was born in New Orleans. Shelby is a spirited, smart and happy little dog who loves to run, play, go to the beach (we live in LA) and ride in the car! She is my best friend and the true love of my life!

7 thoughts on “Happy Birthday over the Bridge”

  1. Happy birthday, sweet girl! You KNOW there is a big pawty at the bridge today! The pictures are priceless, as was she.

    Paula and Nitro

  2. Happy Birthday beautiful Shelby!!!!
    You gave your Mum so much happiness and she made you so happy in return.
    I am raising a glass right now to you both.
    Lots of love Clare xxx

  3. Happy Birthday Shelby. I know everyone is having a great big celebration for you. Love all of these pictures Alison

    xoxoxox
    Michelle & Angel Sassy

  4. Happy Celestial Birthday, beautiful Princess Shelby. We are all holding close in our hearts on this day especially.

    Alison, wishing you comfort in these wonderful memories of your goodest little girl.

    Lisa and Pofi

  5. LOVE all these pictures of Princess Shelby Lynn! Happy Birthday at the bridge sweet girl! You and your mom are forever in our hearts.

  6. Oh Alison, you ALWAYS articulate “everything Shelby” with such grace, such love, such truth.

    It really was somewhat of a “jolt” to realize Shelby IS 16 now. It’s hard to grasp as she just doesn’t seem to age beyond the photos of her in her earth clothes. And in Shelby’s case, “earth clothes” can be taken literally!!

    I ALWAYS love taking a trip down memory lane through your phtots. There is a constant in every single one…LOVE AND HAPPINESS!! You two really are furever Soulmates Alison. You really are!:-) Her eyes are always so joyful!

    I know some of the pictures were her “younger” years, but that girl never ages!

    So our dear Shelby, we wish you a very HAPPY 16th BIRTHDAY! It is a true privilege to be with you and your delightful Mom on this journey…and Lil’ Jasper Lily too!! 🙂

    With so much love!

    Sally and My Chunky Spiritual Being Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!

  7. PS…Love the “why, why?” photo.

    On your first outing picture…..how long jad she been with you at that point? And the “close up” of her adorable face…how old the ?

    I just LOVE looking at her photos!! Goodness knows, she’s photogenic!!

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