You guys make me feel better. I really love my little ornery Wrigley, but my heart fears he might crowd Sammy out. I know that is silly — loving one doesn't exclude loving another. My head knows that.

Karen and Spirit Magnum, thanks for the hugs and your kindness in extending sympathy to another so soon after your own loss.  I hope you are doing OK. The first couple of months are excruciating.

Kathy, I have clicked on Harley's picture so many times trying to get a better look at him but the photo won't go any bigger. I think he looks quite a bit like Sammy, doesn't he? Gorgeous, that is! Your description of him bringing toys to show people reminds me of Wrigley's funny behavior. Like a bratty little brother, he mimics everything Sosa (my daughter's golden) does, so when I come home he picks up a toy and trots around me 15 times. He doesn't know why he does it, but his brother does it. (Well, we call him his brother because he is here all day, but Sosa belongs to my daughter. Wrigley's real brother belongs to my son — so his brother and Sosa are also his nephews. Gee, that sounds trashy, doesn't it?)

Charon, I know how much you loved Gayle and how you understand. I often remind myself of what you say, that "love never ends." I know the pain will ease, but Sammy will always hold a big chunk of my heart.

Jenna and Catherine, we lost our goldens so close together that I have always identified with you. Thank you for the support. I hope Chili Dawg, Scout and Sammy have become fast friends. You know, goldens always seek each other out. I don't know why, they love all other dogs, but they first gravitate toward each other. Maybe all breeds do that? Perhaps it is good that our new goldens are so different. Although there are many times Wrig reminds me of Sammy, he is very different — more like Sosa. He is a chewer, doesn't like to get more than his feet wet and is fearless when it comes to teasing Sosa. He bites his ears and legs, crawls over him, licks his face incessantly, steals toys out of his mouth and is a general nuisance. In the rare instance that Sosa growls at him, Wrigley flops onto his back — for about 2 seconds before resuming his reign of terror. Sosa is a dog saint and has adopted Wrigley as his puppy. They are side-by-i the whole time Sosa is here. Jenna, have I seen photos of Buster and Finchy? Catherine, how much does Tom weigh now? Wrigley is tipping 25 pounds. Can I see a picture of your little furball?

Jerry, you have so much experience with this journey and I know you are right. Yesterday was a low day and today I feel much better. While I still struggle with my grief, Wrigley really has made a huge difference in making us laugh again. But, I must admit, I had forgotten some of this puppy stuff!

Karen, I have thought your thoughts. So many times I've groused to myself about how Sammy learned faster, minded better. But I realize I may have forgotten some of the more difficult parts of Sammy's puppydom — like tiny sharp, biting teeth, poopy on the floor and him not listening to his mommy. In my highly unreliable memory, I remember showing him how to do things like sitting, shaking, high-fiving, etc. — and him learning everything immediately. Poor Wrigley — his mommy is crazy and senile. You hit the nail on the head: the joy and love is worth the heartache. Sammy touched my heart in new ways and i could never regret that.

Jackie, first I want to tell you that I just started your book. You write really well, and I am really enjoying it — except I already hate Dave! I don't know what page I am on because I am reading it on my kindle, but I am about 15 percent through. (I will pm you when I finish.) I remember when your Abby died and how hard it hit me, fresh with my own grief. I could tell you were a respected regular on the site and it hit home that none of us would escape the agony of losing our babies. You still serve as a great example because you continue to support the rest of us and open your heart to new pups — Rita is so lucky you found her.

Ge'lena, the video of Comet hiding from Rocket just tickled me. What a little pill he is! But you can tell it was a game — although whether Comet was having all that much fun remains to be seen. But when Rocket sneaked behind her and poked her butt I laughed right out loud. The video really proves your point: each dog is special and lovable in its own way. Sometimes they are so naughty, they're cute!

Lisa, you know how I feel about Zeus ... how is he doing? You are right that trust is earned over time and every day I trust Wrigley a little more — just a few minutes more at a time. It will be a while, however, before that little chewer has the run of the house while I am gone. Very funny about Wrigley formulating his "special" scent. Please, God, don't let that be his signature odor!

Micki, you are in my thoughts tonight. You are right about that special love between us and our Tripawds being a gift. I wonder whether it makes moving on more difficult or makes our capacity to love that much greater. I hope for the latter.

Thank you all for the kinds words and friendship. You made this sad anniversary more bearable. I have one more photo of Sammy to share. Although it is a little out of focus, it is my favorite because it shows his beautiful eyes.

Best to all,

Beth