Mr. Fox and I would like to thank you for your comments concerning Lily the Beagle. I’m not embarrassed to admit that I cried while reading your condolences. Or that I bawled a river of tears while reading the poems that some of you submitted. It’s comforting to know that Lily’s presence on this blog touched so many hearts in so many places around the world. I miss her terribly, and I always will.
Yesterday, between sobs and hugs, Mr. Fox and I searched local shops for black crepe paper. Failing to find any, we settled for opaque black pantyhose from the lingerie aisle at CVS. I cut the hosiery in half through the crotch. Then we tied each half, ribbon-like, to the columns that flank our front porch. This old-fashioned gesture announces to visitors that we are in mourning.
I had no desire to eat yesterday, but Mr. Fox insisted. Consequently I opened a can of Hormel chili, and served it, straight from the can, on crackers. The meal was as horrid as the sum of its ingredients.
In truth, I think cooking will be vital to my healing process. On this week’s roster is a devastatingly delicious gratin of leeks. It’s a little more work than opening a can of Hormel, but it is so worth the effort. Also on hand is a beef brisket that braises so tenderly that it melts in your mouth. So one recipe for vegetarians, and another for carnivores.
I’ll need a stiff upper lip for my birthday this Thursday. We’re going out to dinner with friends that evening, and they’ve promised to toast not just me, but Lily the Beagle, too. And that’s just as it should be.
Again, thank you for helping me to get through this difficult time. You are the best friends this grammatically-challenged food blogger could hope for.
xKevin
Francess says
I am so sorry for your loss, we all felt we knew and loved Lily too.
Linda K says
Kevin and Mr. Fox.
I am so sorry for your loss of your beloved Lilly, I have recently suffered such a loss, my beloved 14 year old cocker spaniel named Diva died late October. Yes she slept in our bed with us every night of her life. I read the story of how you and lilly became a family and I cried . both from joy and from sadness. Please take time to grieve for her and hopefully you will know that you gave her the best life she could have had
Janet Metzger says
Kevin,
I am so sorry. Grief cuts deep.
In sympathy,
Janet
Patil says
I am terribly sorry for your loss. I enjoyed seeing Lily’s pictures on your blog. It’s obvious she was so very loved.
Lynn Jarrett says
Sending good thought clouds your way!!
JanetRInn says
Kevin I am so very sorry for your loss. Can you please let us know what happened?
DebbyMc says
((((Hugs to you and Mr. Fox)))) I cried yesterday for Lily and for you. You all touched my heart and I’ve felt the same kind of pain several times in my life. She reminded me so much of my old Beagle gal.
Amy says
Kevin,
I’m so sorry to hear about Lily – I’ve known that deep pain of losing a beloved companion. Know that love never dies and that her spirit will be with you always. Cooking and caring for your home and your flowers and plants will nurture and heal your spirit.
I was heartened to see that you haven’t lost your droll sense of humor even in terrible circumstances – despite myself I smiled over the black pantyhose and the Hormel chili.
Will raise a toast to you and Lily on Thursday.
Connie says
Dear Kevin & Mr. Fox,
I am so sorry to hear that Lily the Beagle has passed and that you are hurting. I hope your knowing how much everyone will miss her, will help to heal your hearts.
My condolences, Connie
Toni Kitchen says
Dear Mr Fox and Kevin,
I am so sorry for the loss of your fur baby. There is no set time for grief so take the time you need to heal.
Thank you for continuing with your lovely blogs. I love reading and watching your videos.
Sincerely, Toni Kitchen from England.
Stephanie C. says
I am so sorry for your loss. It is so difficult when we lose a member of the family.
We have a cute little mixed breed that has been with us essentially since birth (she is the result of a lack of planning on my sisters’ part) and is almost 9 years old. She has been my 9yo daughter’s companion and friend since they were both learning to walk (they’re only 10 months apart in age). When we finally have to say goodbye to her, I know it is going to devastate our family for a long time.
I’ve loved seeing Lily the Beagle pop up on the blog, not just because she was so adorable, but because it was so heartwarming to see just how loved she was. I grieve for you and Mr. Fox in your loss and I hope that many fond and happy memories soothe you in your sorrow.
Jon Beattie says
We are all here for you and there for you in thoughts for strength Kevin.
Loss of someone so close is devastating…
Pyykkis says
I’m so sorry for your loss, clearly Lily the Beagle was a dear dear family member for you and will always have a place in your hearts
Joani Y says
So sorry for your loss. It does get easier but never goes away!
jill says
You have been on my heart since hearing about Lilly. She is what first caught my attention to your brilliant website, and has brought me many smiles. I do believe she had one of the most honest face I’ve ever seen, human or otherwise. Don’t be too hard on yourself if this week’s brisket or vegetarian dish don’t come out like you want. At least you stayed the course, and honored Miss Lilly with your first attempt without her. I am so sorry for your loss.
Danella Farrell says
Dear Kevin…keep sharing. It helps. Grieve out loud through the tears and laughter. Healing comes slowly. I laughed through tears when you described cutting black pantyhose at the crotch. Big hugs to you and Mr. Fox.
Doris says
Thank you for sharing Lily’s passing. I pray for her happiness as she bounces in the clouds above chasing all t hings wonderful and enjoying the company of all God’s creatures. May God bless you and comfort you and Mr. Fox as you mourn your sweet companion.
Mary L. says
Lily greeted me every Wednesday afternoon as I entered the foyer for my piano lesson. She would be barking from behind the kitchen door and emerge with a wagging tail in anticipation of a few friendly pats. Lily always sat silently through my lesson, never complaining a bit about the music being played. She could not have stumbled upon a more loving home. She will be missed!
Dixie says
I am sorry for your loss of your beloved Lilly. I feel your pain . I lost my White Westie, Sparkie after 16.5 years. My grandson that grew up with him had a very hard time also. Saying good by was one of the hardest things I have had to do. I cried like a baby. But throught the tears, I know that God created all living things that have a spirit, & they live on in heaven, & someday we will see them again. I did not forget Sparkie, but have two Yorkers to help fill the void. I love them also.
Teresa Alderette says
Dearest Kevin,
I just found out about Lilly. Oh my heart is broken. Will miss seeing her on your blog and videos. She was adorable. God bless you and Silver Fox such
Wonderful Wonderful Parents. She was so lucky to have you.
Love and Peace to you
Myrtle Miller says
We lost our chipin on September the 11th. She was staying with a rescuer until I could find a house with a backyard. My son is disabled and she was sometimes less than charitable towards some of his workers so I would have to crate her. She was always an inside dog but after she went to stay with the rescuer she had access to two acres to run to her hearts content. When I learned she had passed, I cried, but not out of regret I tried to make sure she had a good life but I cried for all the things I wanted to do for her but lacked opportunity. RIP Gypsy girl. You were and are loved.
Diane says
So very sorry. I loved seeing her pictures in your posts. She will be missed by all. Prayers for comfort and peace.
Linda George says
Lily looked so very sweet and kind–am sure she had a good life and lots of love. So close to your birthday….HAPPY BIRTHDAY, THURSDAY.
JUdy Shepherd says
bless your heart! dogs leave paw prints on our hearts. we all at Kettlestick Hollow Farm send our condolences, Even Mr. HOss, the Rottweiler and Ms. PRecious, the diva Pomeranian. When you are ready, perhaps you could give a homeless animal a home. so many need help.
Connie says
Black pantyhose – really? In the midst of your grieving and our sorrow for the loss of your darling Lily the Beagle, you managed to insert a bit of creativity and humor. How sweet you marked your house with black draping as a symbol of your love and for your beloved little friend.
Patricia Wilkins says
if I were with you I would serve you a hot cup of tea, hold your hand and listen to your memories of Lily or just hold your hand while you heal.
love,
Patricia xoox
Deborah says
My birthday is also on Thursday. Today we made a trip to the vet for our lab mix who is having issues with his legs and hips. That very hard quality of life decision, I’m afraid, is not too far off for us either. It amazes me with every furry family member that joins us just how quickly and thoroughly they wiggle their furry selves into out hearts and lives. Can I make a suggestion? In Lilly’s honor can you come up with an ultimate recipe that includes a boat load of cheese in it for us? I mean a rich and gooey,tail wagging, foot stomping, song in your soul, put a smile on your face recipe. Anybody who knew of Lilly knew her love of cheese. Whenever I eat cheese I’ll be sure to think of her. She was awesome and will be missed.
Lee says
I still grieve inwardly over my friend and cat, Fletcher , who passed many years ago. I cherish the memories of the time we spent together. You were richly blessed to have Lily and to appreciate her as a friend, family member and companion, not just a dog. Fletch was not just a cat. Your happiness will return, but the tears are for the memory of the happiness, more tears, more happiness that she brought you.
Erlyn says
So sorry for your loss. Lily was so lucky to find you and Mr Fox. You and Mr Fox were equally lucky to have Lily’s unconditional love. She will keep your hearts filled with warm memories. In time I hope you can open your hearts again to another needy dog. Not a replacement just another lost creature in need of your love.
Judy Silverman says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I felt like I knew Lily through your blog. I am so grateful she had you!
Marilyn from Chicago says
Dear Kevin and Mr Fox, l am heartbroken for you both. This is such a difficult time, but take stock in the fact that you stepped up and gave Lily the love and home of a family, just when she needed you the most. I have had my share of saying goodbye to my best friend and grieving, so l know what you are going through. I hope you do better than l did by living on s itch for three days (so far the chili out of a can is not cutting it!) I read somewhere that your soul heals when your eyes can see your hands working together for a purpose; l think cooking is a great idea! Or knitting, or crocheting, or sewing… We love you and will always love Lily the Beagle. God Speed.
Marilyn from Chicago says
Sorry for the typo up there. That should have said Scotch. Good Scotch. I lived on Scotch for 3 days after saying goodbye to my beloved Gizmo, who lived 18 months longer than the vet said he would. Love is a beautiful thing.
Pam R says
I am SO sorry, Kevin. Hugs to you and Silver Fox. It is so hard to lose our babies. 🙁
Leslie D says
I can’t help joining you in floods of tears for your beloved Lily. One never forgets these special, sweet, so dearly loved companions. Hugs to both of you.
Jody Hibbs says
And you have made me cry again, right along wirh you. I surely hope Lily has met my Sandie,Snickers and Rita and that they are ALL having a wonderful time. Hugs to you!
Karen L. says
As so many others have said “I am so sorry for your loss”. I too have loss my fair share of pets and it just never gets easier. In fact I said that after losing the last two dogs within six months of each other, I would never have another dog. And yet, there is one snoring by my feet right now and the other is in her extra bed in the living room with my husband. I am sure you have that empty feeling now but eventually you will be able to think of Lily and smile while telling stories about her antics. It just takes time but “time” takes time. You did do a wonderful thing by taking her in and giving her the best life she could have ever hoped for. Also, you made her a Star!!! Stay strong and yes, keep active cooking and such so that the pain of loss can take a holiday at least for a little while so you can become stronger. Crying does help by the way so do that when you need to for relief.
Linda Parker says
So sorry to hear of Lily’s passing. I’ve come to love her through your wonderful pictures and stories. Girls like her truly do enrich our lives!
Inga Armannsdóttir says
I am so sorry for your loss Kevin and Mr. Fox. She was so much part of your blog and she had
that sweet face and wonderful eyes, who looked at you and your camera with so much love.
All you can do is to be thankful that she came to you two and for the time you had with her.
I have loved and lost so I feel your pain but for me the best way to handle the sorrow is to work
with flowers and the garden, there is healing there. And I believe we will meet all our loved one
when it is our time to go. Am sure our beloved dog Gola is now with my husband on the other side
and they wait for me there. God bless you both.
Mary Kay says
I am so sorry for your loss. Last week we had to put down our beloved Columbus. He missed his 19th birthday by two weeks. We miss him every minute of every day. He was a great comfort to my son who has several disorders. We lost our Maggie at almost 18 a few years ago. Oddly enough we rescued a puppy a month ago just by accident. it wasn’t planned. Columbus met Lola and they liked each other. I think Columbus felt my son would be well taken care of by Lola and he quickly slipped away from us. We feel Columbus knew it was ok to go on to be with Maggie and he trusted us to make the right decision for him. I feel for you. So much. Crying now.
Karen Hayward says
I am so sorry for you loss, just reading this has me in tears. Through all your sharing her with us, she became a part of my family, also.
Sending hugs and love to you both.
Pamela Dempsey says
Wishing you a Happy Birthday Kevin and hopefully your night out will bring some healing….Love you gobs!!!!
Patricia says
So sorry about your loss, felt like I knew Lily and I will miss her endearing presence on your pages, so will many I’m sure.
Patt Reid says
I feel the pain you are experiencing at the loss of Lily. My daughter had to put down her two Mini-Schnauzers two weeks ago. They were both very sick (one w/cancer), up in age, and the vet advised that if he kept the male alive for another month or so, it was for her and not the dog. So, she made the decision to send them off together, as they had been together all their lives. The loss, as you know, is devastating. They’re currently of the mind that there will be no more dogs…never, can’t go thru that again. But this changes over time as the grieving progresses. To any who dare think that dogs are not really family members, shame on you! My whole extended family is mourning the loss of these two delightful “children” of ours.
Erica says
Best wishes for your birthday on Thursday Kevin.
Belle Meline Mears says
I’m so sorry to hear of your dear Lily having to travel cross the rainbow bridge by herself for now. I haven’t been tuning in here for a while and I’m sorry I missed the message until today. In my email I saw noted your new cookbook. As you grieve, I send a prayer of condolence. Remembering the wonder times will be part of this and day by day, I hope you will dedicate your love in the direction of your wonderful creative side. A Lily garden will always be in your heart. My Dalmatian Monty passed over the rainbow bridge almost 20 years ago, and I still have inate gestures or turns to look for him that remind me of that profound bond we still hold even when our beloveds aren’t with us in the natural. Spiritually, I hope Lily will continue to cast her sweet aura in your dayS. The Hormel was a note of honesty that enhances your humanity in reporting yourself. God’s embrace as you move into book times ahead. from now on I will try to keep up! Your book may be just the gift for someone very beloved in my life. Happy Birthday Kevin and May this be a year of blessings.
Elizabeth Dowd says
I am so sorry Kevin. I loved seeing Lily in your blogs. What a wonderful like you gave Lily…she was a very lucky dog.
Penny says
I’m so sorry for your loss of Lily. It was always very obvious what a big part of your life she was. I hope it won’t take too long for your wonderful memories to only bring you comfort & smiles. In the meantime I hope a very Happy Birthday will distract a bit.
Kara says
Happy Birthday, lovely person. Weeping will grow less in time; beloved Lily will always be with you. Enjoy Birthday with friends and loved ones. Life is FLOW, and we DO repair!Hugs!
Yamile Rijo says
Over the years my family had many dogs. We loved them all as the wonderful friends that they were. We also mourned them on their death as the special parts of our life that they were. We always remember them and thank them for the company and the love they gave us as part of our journey.
Our last dog was a Jack Russel named Zeus. We adopted him at three from a family that did not love him. He was with us for 14 wonderful years and gave us plenty of memories about all his crazy antics and his bigger than life personality. We found comfort when we had to say good bye, in the thought that we had given him 14 wonderful years. Think about how good you and Mr. Fox were to your Lily: you loved her and gave her the best possible life she could have.
Happy birthday. A toast to you and Lily.
Dawn says
Simply .. God bless .. you are important in our world and we dislike our friends feeling pain . Time heals. Precious memories stay with us . Your followers will be with you as you heal.
Arlene S. Bice says
Lily’s passing away will be an aching in your heart for a long time. She added such personal joy to your wonderful blogs. Add my sentiments of sorrow to all you’ve received. Thank you for sharing all that you do, with us, your readers. Also sending birthday wishes along.
Ardelle says
I’m sure there will be tears and laughter at dinner come Thursday. Lily will be present for sure. Happy Birthday Kevin. Hugs to all.
Shirley Parran says
I believe Lilly would have wanted you to adopt another pet when you are ready. And you will be eventually. She knows that you would provide a loving home for another baby in need.
Dawn says
Simply .. God bless .. you are important in our world and we dislike our friends feeling pain . Time heals. Precious memories stay with us . Your followers will be with you as you heal.
Judy says
Continued thoughts and prayers for you Kevin and Mr. Fox during this difficult time. Best wishes for bright sunny days to carry you through the coming days.
Mary Alicia says
I lost my Bailey a little over a year ago. Cried for six months. Had dreams about him looking for me in the woods. I found your blog a short time after my dog’s passing and the picture of Lilly,
tilting her head when you say cheese- made my day & gave me comfort.
Our dogs are with us forever.
Have a happy birthday. Raise a glass in your dogs memory. Eat cheese.
Deb B says
Best wishes to you on your birthday! And please don’t feel bad about crying! To this day I will burst into tears when I’m reminded of one of my pets I had earlier in my life. It shows how much a part of your life they were and how they helped shape you into the person you are today. Losing them leaves a tremendous hole in your heart and, let’s face it, it hurts! It’s all part of the healing process… Sending hugs your way!
Marjie T. says
Hold and heal. Dogs simply don’t live long enough. It is not fair. But I do believe they can return in another form – so keep your heart and eyes open. You never know who may join you on your next trip around the sun. Hope it is a wonderful year.
Jody Mandel says
I’m so sorry for your loss, Kevin. I just saw this. Had a busy week. Lily was so cute in your photos, and added much warmth and humor to your postings.
I can only hope for you that the immense sadness you feel passes, and that you live on with her wonderful memories.
I guess you can focus on how she enriched your lives while she was here.
Unfortunately, we can’t go around grief.
We must go through it.
Hugs to you guys.
Jody
Michelle says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I loved seeing Lilly’s sweet face as she assisted you in the the kitchen! May the hole in your heart become smaller with each passing day. We know how much she was loved, and so did she! xo
Susan says
I lost my dog, Maya in April and some days I still struggle to find a way. Grief takes time but you will learn to live with her loss.
I will think of all three of you – Kevin, Mr. Fox and of course – Lily on Thursday.
Sharon A. Shade says
It was months before I could speak about my beloved Fletcher (aka Stinky) without dissolving into tears so I applaud you for admitting that you have cried for the loss of darling Lily. They enrich our lives and give us such unconditional love and acceptance that it is devastating to think of a world in which that does not exist. Prayers for you, Mr. Fox, and your extended families.
Pamela McRae says
I already sent one condolence comment, but reading what you say here prompts me to write another. I know how much you miss Lily. I never met her and don’t know you, but this whole thing has me in tears.
Paula says
Hi Kevin,
Just remember, Lily lives on in all our memories, in addition to yours.
Go out and enjoy your birthday dinner–Lily would want you to have a good time.
Marcia says
So sorry for your loss. I could not write to you last week, could not see the screen through the tears.
When I lost my Persian aged 16 years, the vet helped me find “Paws to Remember”. She was cremated and her ashes returned to me in a nice box. I made a little memory corner in one of the hutches with lots of pictures. My thought was to bury this little box of ashes in the woods, but it’s been 8 years and she is just fine for right now on that shelf.
Each of us grieves differently, but for me the process of honoring her was healing.
Heather says
So sorry for your loss. There is nothing so wonderful as the love of a dog. Hopefully, some day, you will rescue and be rescued by another fur baby. It would be what Lily would hope for. But for now, may the wonderful memories you had of her help comfort you in this time of sorrow. Sending hugs your way.
Elaine says
Kevin,
If you have never watched the movie, A Dog’s Purpose, perhaps on a cold and snowy or dreary day, check it out. It’s a movie from the dog’s eyes and point of view and I thought it was a wonderful movie for young and old, and especially to remember the pets we have loved and had to let go. I’ll be thinking of you and Lily when I try and make your leek/cheese recipe. I have a leek recipe I love, but this one looks really good too. Happy Birthday.
Judy says
Dear Kevin,
I so know your heartache. We lost our beloved 16 year old Lab, Sadie in July. I couldn’t bear to remove her beds, her food and water dish so they still reside in their prospective places. As she had four beds, my son says this is an issue. As we had another younger Lab it was very comforting to have his presence and his big furry head to cry on. I like to think Sadie was waiting for your dear Lilly, and they are best of friends. Running through the green fields, tails wagging, pink tongues panting, this gives me comfort. I hope it will give you comfort also.
Marie Gordon Gardner says
I share your loss. We only have a few weeks before we will lose our beloved service dog, Socrates, of 11 years to cancer. Just waiting for the vet to say it is time. I shall grieve with you.
Patricia says
The following is the last two paragraphs of something I read by a veterinarian who was talking with the family of a most beloved dog who had just been euthanized. The family had chosen to allow their six year old son to be present during this. While they were discussing why dogs leave earth first, the little boy said this:
“People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life__ like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?
The six-year-old continued, “Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long”.
Out of the mouths of babes, how true this is.
Carol Reynolds says
My sister lost both of her rescued dachshunds within three weeks of each other during the time you lost Lily. Both of them to different types of cancer. She is still feeling the loss of their company as you are of Lily. Memories of their playfulness will be a comfort to both of you. That’s what helped me through the loss of my own dog years ago. Hugs to you for comfort and a Happy Birthday!
Cynthia Hill says
Dear Kevin,
Proud to see you made it, another week…..it’s so difficult.
Happy birthday on Thursday, will send hugs and kisses to all. If
you remember, please leave a small piece of Lily’s favorite cheese where she’ll find it.
If you believe hard enough, almost anything can happen.
Cynthia
JoAnn says
I was so sorry to read of your loss of Lily. It was also a loss for all your readers as she was such a loved part of your family. We lost our beloved cat Annie of 20 years and a mere three weeks later lost a loved llama at about the same age. It was difficult to let them go, but it is because we loved them so much we knew we must do this for them. To this day I remember both with sadness and then smile at all the good memories of them. I wish the same for you.
Cara Stamp says
It is never easy to say good bye to a best friend. When I lost my girl I thought my heart would never heal. I was sent this article and it helped me get through my worst days….
DOGS NEVER DIE
Some of you, particularly those who think they have recently lost a dog to ‘death’ don’t really understand this.
Dogs never die. They don’t know how too. They get tired, very old, and their bones hurt. Of course they don’t die. If they did they would not want to always go for a walk,even long after their old bones say: ‘No, no not a good idea. Let’s not go for a walk.’ Nope, dogs always want to go for a walk. They might get one step before their aging tendons collapse them into a heap on the floor, but that’s what dogs are. They walk.
It’s not that they dislike your company. On the contrary, a walk with you is all there is. Their boss, and the noisy symphony of odour that the world is. Cat poop,another dogs mark, a rotting chicken bone and you. That’s what makes their world perfect, and in a perfect world death has no place.
However,dogs get very sleepy. That’s the thing you see. They don’t teach you that at the fancy university where they explain about quarks, gluons, nd Keynesian economics. They know so much they forgot that dogs never die. It’s a shame, really. Dogs have so much to offer and people just talk a lot.
When you see your dog has died, it has fallen asleep in your heart ❤️. And by the way, he is wagging his tail madly, you see, and that’s why your chest hurts so much and you cry all the time. Who would not cry with a happy dog wagging its tail in their chest? Ouch!! Wapp wapp wapp wapp, that hurts. But they only wag when they wake up. That’s when they say:’Thanks Boss!!! Thanks for a warm place to sleep and always next to your heart, the best place’
When they first fall asleep, they wake up all the time, and that’s why, of course you cry all the time. Wapp, wapp, wapp. After awhile they sleep more. (Remember, a dog while is not a human while. You take your dog for a walk, it’s a day full of adventure in an hour. Then you come home and it’s a week, well one of your days, but a week, really, before the dog gets another walk. No WONDER they love walks .)
Anyway, like I was saying, they fall asleep in your heart, and when they wake up, they wag their tail. After a few dog years, they sleep for longer naps, and you would too. They were a GOOD DOG all their life, and you both know it. It gets tiring being s good dog all the time, particularly when you get old and your bones hurt and you fall on your face and don’t want to go outside to pee when it is raining but do anyway, because you are a good dog. So understood, after they have been sleeping in your heart, they will sleep longer and longer.
But don’t get fooled. They are not ‘dead’. There’s no such thing really. They are sleeping in your heart, and they will wake up, usually when you’re not expecting it. It’s just who they are.
~Anonymous~
Shirley Welch says
First let me say how very sorry I am for your loss, my sympathy to you and your family. When I first starting reading your blog and looking forward to the weekly newsletter in my inbox, I was already enjoying the recipes and gardening tips, but what completely won me over was, Lily ~ that sweet dear little face, who could not love that. I have always felt that a house was just a empty cold place without animals, they give it a soul with their little beating hearts it becomes a home. May Lily rest in peace and may her love always fill your heart ~
Jessica says
From the book Homer’s Odyssey by Gwen Cooper:
“A few days later, though, it occurred to me that we love them because they’re the closest thing we have to material evidence of an objective moral order— or, to put it another way, they’re the closest thing we have to proof of the existence of God. They seem to prove that the things that matter to and move us the most— things like love, courage, loyalty, altruism— aren’t just ideas we made up from nothing. To see them demonstrated in other animals proves they’re real things, that they exist in the world independently of what humans invent and tell each other in the form of myth or fable.”
May peace and comfort wrap themselves around and through you and your family in these trying times.
Fellow animal lover,
Jessica
Debby S. says
All of you have been on my mind since I read about Lily’s passing last Sun. I will miss her smiling face and reading about all her adventures with her best bud. A donation in her memory has been made to the Watauga Humane Society here in northwestern NC. Would that all animals could find the kind of forever home that you gave to her.
Abby says
I love your ability to improvise to maintain the historical traditions of grief.
Martha Robinson says
Happy Birthday, Dear Kevin, and how wise to celebrate it with toasts to Lily as well. Wishing you comfort and love and doggy kisses in your dreams.
Carol H says
When I read about Lily (and the touching backstory of how you all became a family) I was moved to tears. I loved learning how she came to you and always smiled when you’d post pictures of her with those big brown eyes and long ears gazing up at you. It’s such a lovely tale of man’s humanity and how richly rewarding it is to open our hearts to someone in need. Thank you for your huge heart and for sharing Lily’s story. Blessings to you and Mr. Fox this holiday, Kevin, and on into the new year. xoxo
Karen at Country Gardens says
Kevin, may you have a Happy Birthday and celebrate the love for Lily .
elaine k says
Lily would say… Happy Birthday Dad! Celebrate on!!!
Sandy Martinez says
Thank you to all your loved ones sending you-Kevin and Mr. Fox- all the love and words of encouragement. You are all great and loving people.
Kevin, it’s your birthday…adopt a new baby. It’ll make you feel better. You still have a lot of love to give and they’re are A LOT of needy dogs out there…
Love, Sandy
Barbara Mullinix says
I have a fantasy of the afterlife: I walk up to the pearly gates (right) and see my Acura (that I loved and totalled) parked there. And every dog I have loved (many) is hanging out the windows, wiggling all over, “she’s here, she’s here!”
Rayna says
This morning I watched one of my favorite shows. It is called Sunday Morning and it is on CBS. Well today they did a segment on the Broadway show “the Lion King.” They featured a song whose name I can’t remember that says that those we have loved and lost will always be with us. I am not a religious person but I really think that this is so. And truly so it is with wonderful Lily the Beagle. I miss her too. Wishing you and Mr. Fox peace and comfort and joy in you memories with Miss Lily
Love,
Rayna
Rita L. says
Sympathy & hugs to both of you.
Lily was a special “member” of your family & her loss is great.
Happy Birthday, Kevin, & by all means, toast Lily.
J. Leposa says
Sorry for your loss.
She was a member of your family who was dearly loved. Please remember that you gave her a good life while she was on this earth and she added so much to your life in return. She will always be remembered with loving thoughts I am sure.
Sandy says
So sorry for your loss, she will always be in your heart
Margaret says
I am so sorry for your loss, Kevin and Mr. Fox; I love your recipes and I always looked forward to pictures of Lily — those eyes, and her anticipation! Take all the time you need to grieve.
Julie says
I am so sorry to hear of her passing. What a lovely life she had with you.
Terry says
I am so sorry for your loss. Oh, btw, squeeze some plain yellow mustard on your chili.
Rebecca says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Lily, the beagle, was a delightful addition to your website. And, yes, you will always miss her, but you will eventually stop crying. As often. It’s painful, the emptiness that permeates a home, when you lose your dog. It does lessen with time. (Or, in my case, exactly four months and one day. I brought home a new Golden Retriever puppy named Eleanor. Then I cried from sleep deprivation, potty training, furniture chewing… Beware the cute, cuddly puppies…they heal and steal your heart, but are quite exhausting!)
Sheri Rice says
Kevin
Lily was a classy dog and what would she think of you eating canned chili? Straight from the can, no less? She loved you enough to wish better for you. At least order takeout, you will need your strength for honoring her in days to come. Do it for Lily.
We lost our beloved Westie, Pebbles, my soul dog and light of my life a few months ago. She was 17, but still. I sobbed for days and still miss her sweet presence. I had a remarkable session with a friend who connects with pets that have crossed over. She does phone readings. It was amazing and was the balm to soothe my broken heart. I literally left joyful. Madison Medium Associates @melaniefritzintuitiveassociates
Karen Hermansen says
I just heard about the loss of your friend. I am so sorry. Our animal friends enrich our lives and we are better because of their presence in our journey through life.
Beverley says
Oh no, I just heard the news of the passing of your lovely Lily! I know this hurts your heart. You and Mr. Fox are in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time. I hope you are able to enjoy your birthday on Thursday knowing that Lily is looking down upon you and wagging her tail.
Barbara Baldus says
Oh my dears, I am so sorry to learn of Lilly’s passing. I know that pain myself and I know it helps when others understand the weight of it and I know that the memories endure and make you smile sometimes and well up sometimes but you gave her a wonderful life and you made her a Star. Bless your hearts.
Lynne says
Dear Kevin
A few years ago, I said goodbye to my 15 year old pup Otis. It was the day before my birthday
and the worst ever. Cried for months until we adopted Sophie, the sweetest furbaby
in the world. I’m convinced Otis, who was a bit of a curmudgeon, sent her to us to help us through our sorrow. (She even looked quite a lot like him)
I hope you and Mr. Fox can find a way to heal the hole in your lives by adopting another 4 legged ball of fur. Athough losing them is heartbreaking, the best way to honor a lost pup is to give another needy pup a loving home. Thinking of you both.
Casey C says
Have been out of the country so just now learned the sad news about your darling Lily. I feel as if all of us faithful readers too have lost something precious in hearing the news of her passing. You introduced her to us, allowed us to appreciate her supervisory role (and sometimes that of “taster”) in your kitchen, and let us vicariously adore her along with you and Mr. Fox. Thank you for that. Lily would expect you to enjoy your birthday celebration with your human friends — best wishes (in spite of the sorrow) on your Special Day.
Beverly Oyler says
While tearing up at your last email about Miss Lily a few minutes before, and now reading this one, the tears became laughter at the Hormel chili comment. You and Mr. Fox take care, and Happy Birthday!
Liliana Blanco says
Lily from Ottawa, Canada, is thinking of beautiful Lily the Beagle, and the loving life she enjoyed with you, Kevin and Mr. Fox.
Debra Ulrich says
The way I understand the poem of the Rainbow Bridge is that our fur babies pass on and happily play with other fur babies; all waiting for their beloved humans to join them.
That is my prayer for Lily the Beagle, you and Mr Fox and to all of us who have lost our fur babies. And will loose more fur babies as we cannot believe our lives are complete without them and their unconditional love.
Cathy M says
My belated condolences for Lily the Beagle. I will miss seeing her eager face in your recipe blog. This is a piece of a poem that I have found comforting when losing beloved pets:
We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached. Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way. We cherish memory as the only certain immortality, never fully understanding the necessary plan.
The Once Again Prince
Separate Lifetimes
Irving Townsend
Hugs and Prayers for you, Mr. Fox and Lily the Beagle
Holly Prescott says
Missing seeing Lily the Beagle in your recipe posts! Know it will be quieter around your house this holiday season. Peace to you all!
Rebekah DeWeese says
So sorry for your loss! She was very loved and such a blessing to your family. Wishing you well in the New Year!