9 - Two Techniques to Use to Honor a Pet or Someone Close to You that has Died

    The first few birthdays and holidays after a loved one or a pet passes away is extremely difficult.  Usually, memories, good and bad flood in, as they are difficult to control. There will be a missing piece for a while in your life, but zero in on those delicious memories. Honor your loved one; he doesn’t want you to be sad. Remembering those special times as a family is a remarkable way to bring everyone together. Pull out a few pictures. Recall those funny and embarrassing times, even the disagreements, or the cat's unique funny antics. Laughter helps mend the heart. Enjoy what all of you have in common, the memories and love for that individual or pet that passed. There might be a few tears, and that’s okay. Each year, I promise it will become easier and easier. 

Two techniques to help ease the pain:

HONORING YOUR PET OR LOVED ONE
   Place a flower(s), or one of the old dog or cat toys in a special place in the garden, so you or your child can go out and honor, or talk their pet or a loved one any time. Make the area a bit special by placing stones in a circle, add a handmade cross. Be creative.  Don't worry, I guarantee that as time passes, the hurt will subside.

MAKING A MEMORY BOX:

     If your child has lost a pet or someone they were close to, cover a box with white or brown grocery bag paper. Don't forget to cover the lid also. Allow your child to decorate the box and then go through your pictures and let him pick a few to put in the box. (You can copy a few if you don't want to take them out of the album.) They can even add the collar and the toy and if they want they can write a few stories that they remember about their pet or have you write them down as they share. (Don't worry, your child might hang onto the box for a while, but soon friends and school will keep him or her busy.)

laughter doesn't cost a cent