Friday, June 17, 2011

Good-Bye & God Speed Hamlet

Dear Hamlet,
As I write this you are quietly resting nearby.  In just a couple of hours I'll hold you for one last time and say good-bye.  You're having problems standing, you've had no appetite the last few days and are drinking very little water...You and I both know it's time for you to leave us.   
~Hamlet, the first day I met him~
How well I remember the day you came into our lives 19 short months ago.  It seems like only yesterday, in some ways, I guess it was.  I remember being so firm in my decision to no longer foster for the rescue.  But then I got a call from a new volunteer asking me if I could pick up a dog named Hamlet who had been left in the garage of a house that had been foreclosed on.  I agreed because I was going to be in that direction that day, and where you needed to go was on my way home; I would hardly be going out of my way.  Needless to say, when I saw you, so ill and unable to stand, I knew I couldn't turn my back on you.  I called the foster home coordinator and asked if I could foster you.  The rest shall we say is history.  
You've enjoyed your health for the most part.  But in the shadows and always on our minds was the tumor on your shoulder.  You've had two major surgeries to remove it, and both times you've fully recovered.  I have marveled and given thanks so many times for that as well as your spark and zest for life.   Hamlet, I know that you've been happy here.  Its shown as your personality has blossomed.  My heart would literally leap each time you would run past me on our walks to get back to the house first, or prance around when I came home each day.  I loved how you would come to me quietly wagging your tail and bury your head in my lap for me to scratch your head.  We taught some 'important things' like how to beg and I never minded sharing a bite of whatever it was I was eating.  My attempts to try and get you to bark never worked--A small 'woof' was all I could ever get, but that spoke volumes.  

Hamlet you will be greatly missed!  You've shown over and over again what a quiet, kind, gentle soul you are.  I will never be the same, both for bearing your loss, and for the joy you've given us and others that I've told about you.  It has been a privilege to have such a noble dog like you as part of our lives.  God speed my precious, precious Hamlet.  We've lit our candle to help you find your way to the bridge where you'll meet and join our other Goldens, Tod, Ben, Cougar, Tucker, Scout, Tosh, Logan, Kasey, Cubby--Cowboy, Maguire and Tanner are there too.  Please give them our message and know that we'll see you all again one day.  

99 comments:

  1. I'll carry the special Golden look from the last picture with me today -

    We'll light a candle tonight for him and for ALL of you -

    You listened to him -

    AND he listened to you by letting you know it is time -

    His journey will be made with most of The Strawberry Full Moon - kind of fitting fur a GR!

    I know Khyra wants Hamlet to pass along some WOOFS to her Golden Khousins Lexie and Sierra waiting at The RB - and I know Hamlet will find the special Lady from Seattle -

    Hugz&Khysses,
    Phyll

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  2. Kim...what a beautiful tribute to Hamlet. I was crying after the first sentence. Who could ever forget this special boy. You were both so fortunate to have each other and I for one, can't say enough for all that you have done to help so many pups. Thank you for your kindness, sensitivity and generosity. Look at that list of names. Peace....

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  3. Oh Kim
    I'm crying as I read this post - God bless you & Hamlet as you let him go shortly. I just lost my Grandmother on Wednesday so my grief is intense.

    May the Lord be with you during this time. Run free sweet Hamlet...

    Quiet woofs
    Nadine & golden Neeli

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  4. Oh dear, I have tears in my eyes as I write this, this is the post I dreaded reading, but you've let your Mom know it's your time to go now. Thinking of you Hamlet and Mom, we've been honoured to get to know you if only for a short time. With a gentle hug from all of us xxx

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  5. Some dogs, like some people, no matter how old they get , manage to never lose their beauty. A tender post that hints at the weight of intertwined duty and love. God speed this morning .

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  6. Of course, I can't stop crying. Sweet Hamlet, I will miss you so! You have one of the sweetest Golden faces I've ever seen. You have lived a wonderful life with Kim and now is the hard part. ((((HUG)))) It's never easy to leave those we love. But the reunion on that rainbow bridge is one I certainly would not want to miss...
    Kim, thank you for telling us the story of how Hamlet came to be with you. I never did know.. and of course.. it made my tears fall even more. Hamlet found his angel on earth when you rescued him. My thoughts will be with you today...

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  7. Oh, Kim...sweetheart, as tears fall from my eyes and my heart aches for you, Hamlet will be greeted by my Lady Kiera Von Pooh as well as his other friends....Your friend, JP.

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  8. Aw dang it. I`m so sorry to hear he is leaving you, I know how very hard that is. *Hugs*

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  9. Mom is crying - she has always liked Hamlet, he was so much like her beloved Cisco. Give him a hug from all of us and let him know he had lots of friends. Thank you for sharing him with us. We will be thinking of you today.

    Sam

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  10. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Kim, and with Hamlet. He's a lucky dog to have you in his life. I'm so sorry. Good luck today and know that you are not alone.

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  11. Sweet Hamlet, may you gently pass and dear Kim, may your heart be at peace that this too was meant to be. Sending a hug, shedding a tear and most of all saying thank you to all of the big hearted people like you who foster.

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  12. Dearest Kim
    I don't often cry whilst looking at a computer screen, but today I do. I too am saying goodbye to that special doggie of yours and I am so, so sorry for your loss. I know how much Hamlet has come to mean to you in his short time with you.

    He might have been forgotten in that garage, but hey, he's loved and remembered right across the ocean...to South Africa.

    I share your sorrow today, but I also know that you are the best doggie-angel for Hamlet and you have poured our your love to him. I salute you for your courage, your compassion and your incredible love for our Golden friends.

    My heart is breaking for you. Consider yourself hugged...

    With much love
    Caryl aka "Maxmom"

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  13. Awwww.

    I am with you in spirit as you do this last kindness for that good boy.

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  14. Good-bye sweet Hamlet.
    Sending you my love Kim.
    xo Catherine

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  15. God speed Hamlet. I will miss reading about you more than you could ever imagine.

    Much love

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  16. No Words....Just tears.

    Love
    Bert (and Vickie)

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  17. My heart is breaking for you, Kim. I've come to love Hamlet from afar, such a noble and sweet spirit. I, too, am sad, but I know that you are shepherding him with an abundance of love and kisses. He is so lucky that you found him on that day and have given him these years of being cherished. You've allowed his spirit to soar and blossom. Happiness radiates from his face in his photos.

    Please know that I am thinking of you and lighting a candle for your sweet sweet boy.

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  18. Woof! Woof! Very SAD to read this post. For sure Hamlet is very thankful for the LOVE n care you've provided. Hamlet had the best 19months of his life. Golden Thoughts. Sending you Lots of Golden LOVE n Woofs, Sugar

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  19. RIP Sweet Hamlet.
    Kim, thank you for sharing this sweet boy with us!
    With tears rolling down my chubby cheeks,
    ~K

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  20. Godspeed, dear Hamlet. Thank you and your Lady for letting us get to know your sweet, gentle self. You will live on, in a lot of people's minds.

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  21. Oh Kim, another hard day and another goodbye. I wish there was something I could do to make the day easier for you. Please know you and Hamlet are in my thoughts. I am filled with admiration and gratitude for what you do - thank you for sharing it all, good times and hard times, with us. Love from us all at Mucky Boots.

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  22. Goodbye sweet Hamlet. I know Lady will be waiting to show you around. She's like that you know!

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  23. My heart is heavy for you as I know it's never ever easy to lose our beautiful friends. I'm so glad that Hamlet got to spend his last 19 months with you, as it sounds that not only was he blessed, but he blessed your life in a special way as well.
    Take care,
    Tammy

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  24. Thank you for sharing Hamlet with us through the blog. We too will miss him, the world has lost another happy tail. Letting him go is so hard, but when his time has come, thank you for being strong and helping him on his journey.

    Mogley G. Retriever

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  25. I hope Blogger will allow me to comment today...

    Goodnight sweet prince. And flights of angels sing thee sweetly to thy rest.

    Hamlet, I hope you've found my own sweet princes over the rainbow bridge and you're all enjoying sunshine and joy.

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  26. Kim, I've had your blog as my home page for a few weeks now, just following along when I have a few minutes. I've said before that your Hamlet and my Sunny could be litter mates for their similarities and every time I look at his pictures, I am reminded of the amazing changes that occur when a dog is loved and cared for and spoiled in the manner in which they so deserve. They only give us their best and inspire us always to be our best. Hamlet's story is similar to my very first pick-up from an unfinished basement, though law enforcement wasn't involved! I remember your conviction not to foster... you make firm decisions like I do! :-) Hamlet was so happy to be with you and Carl and your pack; you could see it in his face! I still miss my Cleo, am keeping an eye on Sunny, and marvel at how she manages day-to-day, and Murphy is... just Murphy! They make us who we are and take a little bit of us with them when they go. They leave content and I just know they are having a good time on the other side of the brige, just laughing and sharing stories of just how successful they were at getting that last cookie from us, and smiling for all the nose smudges that covered every available window in the backs of our cars. Hamlet's story is one of the best. Thanks for sharing and may you have a peaceful summer weekend chasing squirrels with the kids on the front porch!

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  27. We come to you from Dog Daze blog and are warmed by Hamlet's story of being in your life, even for a short 19 months!

    Drools and licks,
    Minnie and Mack

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  28. Thank you for sharing Hamlet with us. We're better for knowing this boy who faced life with such dignity. After dark, the pack and I will go into the back yard and Tsar will lead us in a group howl to honor our friend crossing the bridge.

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  29. All goldens are special. But Hamlet, o sweet Hamlet. he ha a look about him .. in his eyes.. so precious..he truly has touched me.. i will miss him, I truly will.
    Thank you for giving him a wonderful, loving 19 months..if only it c
    ould have been forever.
    When I saw his picture yesterday, I just wanted to stroke him and love him.Thank you for that love that he felt from you and Carl. Such an appreciation,sweet Hamlet had for life, wanting to smell the air as weak as he was. My heart just bursts for that spirit.
    Much love to you and know my thoughts are with you today during this profound day.

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  30. So sad. Sending heartfelt love to you all.

    xxxx

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  31. The hardest thing about reading your blog is all the goodbyes, and *I* only have to read about them! Thank heavens these dogs find such a lovely home to live out their last years... and I hope there is still time to find some joy in your weekend.

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  32. Oh damm.

    I am so sorry, but Hamlet knew he was loved and cared for...I could not do what you do and stay sane. You are so strong, Kim.

    Godspeed Hamlet. Run free!

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  33. no words ... only tears and hugs for you

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  34. Goodbye Hamlet, you sweet, brave boy. I am saying a prayer for all of you.

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  35. O no !!...goodbye sweet sweet Hamlet.......i hope the dog's heaven is the place to be......love and more love for you my darling....so sad news.l...xxx...

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  36. God-speed for Hamlet to get to the Rainbow Bridge and hugs for you. xxx

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  37. Kim,
    As we said on FaceBook we are so sorry.
    Hamlet was so loved by so many and you did such a wonderful job of making sure all that love surrounded Hamlet. God's Speed Hamlet, we will light a candle and watch for your star. When you meet our Dusty,Taffy,Brandy & Cody at the Bridge, please tell them we look so forward to the day when we will all be together again.
    We don't know what Hamlet's previous life was but we think the poem below describes Hamlet.
    God Bless You Kim and God Bless Hamlet.

    A Dogs Soul by Author Unknown

    Every dog must have a soul
    Somewhere deep inside
    Where all his hurts and grievances
    Are buried with his pride.
    Where he decides the good and bad,
    The wrong way from the right,
    And where his judgment carefully
    Is hidden from our sight.
    A dog must have a secret place
    Where every thought abides,
    A sort of close acquaintance that
    He trusts in and confides.
    And when accused unjustly for
    Himself, He cannot speak,
    Rebuked, He finds within his soul
    The comfort he must seek.
    He'll love, tho'he is unloved,
    And he'll serve tho'badly used,
    And one kind word will wipe away
    The times when he's abused.
    Altho' his heart may break in two
    His love will still be whole,
    Because God gave to every dog
    An understanding Soul!


    Sheila & Bob

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  38. Ooh, dear sweet Hamlet, although we all wish this day would never come, the kindest act is to let you go....
    Run tirelessly in those wide open fields, without burdens on your shoulder, your fur brothers and sisters await your arrival.
    Godspeed sweet, sweet Hamlet, you were indeed a valiant gentleman.
    {Hugs} Kim....
    ~Jo

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  39. We are so very, very sorry for your loss. Hamlet will be forever safe in your heart and good memories will surround you always.

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  40. Noon your time. Coming on seven here. Came back after taking Wilf for a walk and picked up one of the boys old textbooks. A line from Hamlet:

    " Doubt thou the stars are fire;
    Doubt that the sun doth shine;
    Doubt truth to be a liar;
    But never doubt I love ".

    Hamlet knew love. The coincidence of the quote made me smile.

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  41. Kim, I'm not sure that I've ever met anyone like you before. I don't know how you do this....but of course I do. You are a kind soul who wants to share this. Hamlet and all the others 'sense' this as only dogs can.

    My, what an absolute joy it must be when they find you!
    Take care.
    Jim

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  42. We are so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful boy. Godspeed dear Hamlet. Lots of love, Debbie & Holly

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  43. We are heartbroken with you, Kim!

    Rest in peace, sweet Hamlet!

    Arooof!
    Boondocks and Kudzu

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  44. Godspeed, Hamlet. I'm so sorry....

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  45. Dear Hamlet's family we read about Hamlet on Dog Daze's blog.
    We came by to read about your amazing Hamlet. It is often said it is not the quanity that is as important as the quality. Hamlet lead a QUALITY life for 19 months and he left a paw print on your heart forever. God Bless you for taking him into you heart.
    Madi and Mom

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  46. Oh Kim,
    It is crowded at the rainbow bridge!!!!! How can you do this?? I am a wreck!!! I am so lonely with out her!!
    It will probably not be a long long time before I get another dog...........
    RIP Hamlet!!!!! Please tell Bambi to wait for me. Run free beautiful boy!!! I will miss you too!!!
    This has been very hard to write. It was 2 weeks ago this morning that she slipped away with her head in my lap!!!
    I am so sorry.
    xx, Fern

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  47. Oh Kim,
    It is crowded at the rainbow bridge!!!!! How can you do this?? I am a wreck!!! I am so lonely with out her!!
    It will probably not be a long long time before I get another dog...........
    RIP Hamlet!!!!! Please tell Bambi to wait for me. Run free beautiful boy!!! I will miss you too!!!
    This has been very hard to write. It was 2 weeks ago this morning that she slipped away with her head in my lap!!!
    I am so sorry.
    xx, Fern

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  48. Fly free sweet Hamlet and have a peaceful crossing. Some pets win you over in a short time and make you feel like you have had them forever. Thank you for taking him in at the end of his life.

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  49. Kim,
    Although I knew it was inevitable and was coming, I sit at work with tears streaming down my face at the loss of Hamlet. I loved that boy from the first time I read about him; he touched a part of me who knows how it feels to be abandoned and left behind. I know in my heart of hearts he is in a better place, perhaps at the Lord's feet barking loudly to convey all the precious memories you were able to give him. Hamlet is portraying and sharing his gratitude to the people who showed him love and compassion and gave him an opportunity to build lasting moments in his final months.
    We share tears today and I'm sorry for the loss of a fine outstanding creature. Hugs to you my friend...

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  50. Kim, I'm so sorry I've been so wound up in my own life not to notice what was going on with Hamlet - I pray you had peace with him at the end and I know you both felt the wings of love.

    xo
    Lynn

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  51. I knew this post was coming but I had no idea how profoundly it would affect me. Just as you made such a wonderful difference in this dog's life, so did you make a wonderful tribute to him.

    I think that when a friend loses a dog it brings back our own memories of having to part with our dogs and we grieve not only for Hamlet and you, but for our own pets across the bridge.

    I will also light a candly tonight for Hamlet. Godspeed sweet friend.

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  52. I know this has been a hard day for you. God bless and I pray he gives you peace.

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  53. It was such a pleasure to have gotten to know Hamlet. We know how much you will miss him, we will miss him a lot too. I am heartbroken that he is gone but at the same I am happy that he is now free of any pain & horrible tumors.

    Run free beautiful boy. We will surely meet again someday! Hugs to you Kim. Will be thinking about you the entire day today.

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  54. What a beautiful and heartwarming tribute to your gorgeous boy Hamlet. I am so deeply sorry for your loss and send you and your family my deepest heartfelt sympathies. He had such strength, and his face just beams sweetness, love, and wisdom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Hamlet.

    K and Suka

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  55. We came from Mrs ~k's bloggy and we are deeply sorry~

    we send our love,
    IzZY, TriXie and Anakin Man

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  56. Kim I know you understand that the only words I have right now are those spoken in the secret language of my heart.
    I have a candle lit tonight and I know my babies were waiting there with yours for Hamlet to arrive.
    While there is sorrow here tonight, there is much joy there.
    Tina xo

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  57. kim
    we have never met
    but I love you and the way you care
    x

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  58. HUGS to you:)

    A friend sen this to me when I had to put my beloved border collie Scamper had to make the final trip.
    Hugs to all of you!

    IF IT SHOULD BE

    IF IT SHOULD BE THAT I GROW WEAK
    AND PAIN SHOULD KEEP ME FROM MY SLEEP,
    THEN YOU MUST DO WHAT MUST BE DONE
    FOR THIS LAST BATTLE CANNOT BE WON.
    YOU WILL BE SAD I UNDERSTAND,
    DON’T LET GRIEF THEN STAY YOUR HAND.
    FOR THIS DAY MORE THAN ALL THE REST,
    YOUR LOVE FOR ME MUST STAND THE TEST.
    WE’VE HAD SO MANY HAPPY YEARS,
    WHAT IS TO COME CAN HOLD NO FEARS,
    YOU’D NOT WANT ME TO SUFFER SO,
    THE TIME HAS COME TO LET ME GO.
    TAKE ME WHERE MY NEED THEY’LL TEND,
    AND PLEASE STAY WITH ME UNTIL THE END.
    HOLD ME FIRM AND SPEAK TO ME.
    UNTIL MY EYES NO LONGER SEE.
    I KNOW IN TIME THAT YOU WILL SEE,
    THE KINDNESS THAT YOU DID FOR ME.
    ALTHOUGH MY TAIL ITS LAST HAS WAVED,
    FROM PAIN AND SUFFERING I’VE BEEN SAVED.
    PLEASE DO NOT GRIEVE IT MUST BE YOU,
    WHO HAS THIS PAINFUL THING TO DO,
    WE’VE BEEN SO CLOSE, WE TWO, THESE YEARS
    DON’T LET YOUR HEART HOLD BACK ITS TEARS.
    FOR I AM NOW IN A BETTER PLACE,
    AND WILL BE WAITING TO SEE YOUR HAPPY FACE.
    SO WHEN YOU CROSS THAT FINAL BRIDGE,
    LOOK FOR ME ….
    I’LL BE STANDING NEXT TO THE FRIDGE.

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  59. Dear Kim,
    We've always loved the pictures of Hamlet - what a sweet dog; sweet face - and what a wonderful home he had! And also... what an incredibly beautiful tribute you wrote. Tears do run down my cheeks as I think of the amazing love you give to the needful dogs that you foster so unselfishly. Am thinking so much of you and Hamlet and send oodles of love and hugs xoxoxoxo
    Sam, Avalon and Mom

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  60. Saw your news on another blog and wanted to stop by and send puppy thoughts and prayers your way. :)

    Lotsa woofs & hugs,

    ~Bailey

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  61. Godspeed, Hamlet.

    Hugs to you, Kim.

    Katie

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  62. Goodbye sweet boy, I will miss you so much. Kim, you are such a wonderful person to take care of these dogs, giving them a wonderful and secure old age. I am so sorry for your loss. As you can see from all the comments, this special dog touched the hearts of many. I smile through my tears looking at that last photo. May I copy it? I loved him so.--Inger

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  63. So sorry for your loss. Those 19 months may be short but for Hamlet they were the best times of his life.

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  64. My eyes are filled with tears!!! I miss him too!!1

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  65. A new pain, I'm sorry, here we light a candle to accompany your journey.
    I send a hug from a distance, take care

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  66. Kim, saw this this morning but didn't have time to write and say how sorry I was to hear it was Hamlet's time. He was such a noble boy, I think Tucker will grow up to be like that. God bless you for the way you take care of these Goldens who need your love, you are a special person. We know Hamlet had the best months of his life with you.

    Heidi, Tucker and Daisy

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  67. Godspeed, Hamlet! I'm sure your new-found begging talent will stand you in good stead!! Kim - as always, you're an angel. You find the sweetest dogs and give them such a good life. You're an inspiration!
    - Anne

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  68. thank you for sharing hamlet with us. my candle is also lit for dogs past and will now hold hamlet also (if that is ok w/ you and not too presumptive of me) gently pets and hugs to both of you.

    take care ...

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  69. My Heart goes out for you Kim...
    As I read your post, knowing what was coming, I started to cry.
    You have such strength & courage to go through this part of the fostering many times. It surly takes a Strong & Kind Heart.
    You give a loving home to so many deserving who seem to just have been cast away in their hour of need. God Bless you Kim...And Bless Hamlet...

    Always~Marilyn

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  70. Dear Kim
    So many of your friends love you, and we loved Hamlet. Were are all crying with you.
    You gave the best life to Hamlet that he ever had... you gave him love.
    I know it was so hard for you today, to say goodbye.
    You did the right thing Kim.
    I cannot find the words right now, please know we are sending you love across the miles...
    we are there with you,, right this very minute
    love
    tweedles and all of us.

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  71. We are so sorry for your loss, but rejoice in the time you had with Hamlet. He found the sweetness of love at the end of his life through the kindness of your heart.

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  72. I read about the passing of Hamlet from Khyra and came over to send our prayers to your family.

    Hamlet was loved and had a beautiful life with your family. I'm sure he's running happily and making some new friends at the Bridge now.

    It's never easy to lose our beloved family members and it always leaves a hole in our heart, let the fond memories fill the hole. Hamlet will be the brightest star at night watching over you all the time.

    Take care.

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  73. We came over from Khyra's to pay our respects. What a beautiful boy Hamlet was, and what a wonderful gift you gave him these last 19 months.

    Our hearts are with you.

    The Poupounette Gang
    in France

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  74. 19 months, so short a time yet you gave more to each other then some humans give in a whole lifetime. Run with the wind Hamlet

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  75. Kim, the earlier commenters have said it all so well. All we can add is requiescat in pace, sweet Hamlet. There's a big group of mama's Danes also gathered to greet him at the bridge.

    Jed & Abby and mama ML

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  76. What a beautiful boy he was. Our hearts are breaking for you. Godspeed, Hamlet!

    Love ya lots
    Maggie and Mitch

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  77. Kim, what a beautiful tribute to Hamlet......I know your heart is heavy.....
    Thank you for all you do for the golden oldies....hamlet knew true love his last year and a half.....
    Godspeed Hammie......
    xoxo

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  78. I read Hamlet's story on DogDaze. What a beautiful boy! He was blessed to have you find him, and you were blessed to find him! Length of relationship is not the measure of one...quality is. Seems like you had a great few months together. Hold his memory close. God speed, Hamlet!

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  79. No! I was so sad to see the tile of this post, Kim! I know how you are feeling...we may have to face this someday soon with our beloved Scoobie who is slowly showing the signs. But like you, we will love and cherish him each day until that one comes. Hugs, friend.

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  80. Bless you for taking in this old man when he needed someone to love him the most. Often we overlook our seniors knowing that heartbreak will visit us much sooner than with a young dog. The comfort that you gave to Hamlet is testament to you loving and kind soul. Rest with the angels, Hamlet.

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  81. So very sorry. Godspeed sweet Hamlet. You were a good boy and loved my so many.

    Buzzy, Pippa & da Mum

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  82. Blessings to you for being such a tremendous care giver and God Speed Hamlet until you see Kim again.

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  83. Just called by from Ms~K to say we are thinking of you,well done for caring for Hamlet even for the few months Iam sure they will have been happy for him.
    We foster dogs infact I am a foster dog nobody wanted, I have been on foster for nearly 4 years now.
    Licks Grumpy Bobby

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  84. I read a quote today and I immediately thought of Hamlet, I hope you don't mind me sharing,

    "Born a Dog and died a Gentleman"

    xxx

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  85. I confess I did not read the whole post. I could not. But I had to leave you my most sincere hug, and support.

    What you do for these precious babies will forever be in my heart. God bless you.

    And God bless you too, Hamlet. Life does not end, and the other side will welcome you.
    xxxxx

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  86. What a beautiful tribute. One of our rescues was also pulled from a foreclosed house and, no, she was never supposed to stay here. But she is a joy everyday. Thank you for opening your home to another soul.

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  87. Think of all the things Hamlet could thank you for, from taking him home and helping him get well, for the months of family life and excellent care, and the last, and very best gift, knowing when he was ready to go and loving him through it.

    You were a blessing to him, and he to you.

    Kisses,

    Stella

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  88. Kim,
    I'm crying my eyes out right now because I really loved Hamlet through you. I was wildly mad that anyone could have left him behind in any situation. You just don't do that!!!
    But I also realized how lucky it was for him to be introduced to you and Carl. You made the best of his last few years fun and loving.
    I will light a candle for Hamlet because I'm truly going to miss him.
    Your tribute is beautiful and as always the pictures.

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  89. Khyra sent me over to offer some support in your time of loss. I'm so sorry Hamlet had to go, from what I've seen he was indeed a gentle soul. But gentle souls like his don't go away - they are there looking over us, playing softly in our minds and hearts ... until we meet again.

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  90. Hamlet was very special. Warm hugs and purrs from all of us.

    Cory and family

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  91. my tears mixed with yours
    if only everyone could love an animal as you have
    thank you for so much loving
    ...even knowing that it opens you up for heartache....
    and you do it anyway

    have you read..The Art of Racing in the Rain?
    ...it's fabulous...the dog's name is Enzo

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  92. We're sorry for your loss of Hamlet. We know this was hard. And with Rudi .... Purrs and wags!

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Speak--I really enjoy your comments! Thanks for stopping by today!!