share post

Winston.

by | Feb 24, 2013 | My Life

This Post May Contain Affiliate Links. Please Read Our Disclosure Policy here

Winston.

Before Jack the Goldendoodle, there was another fluffy white dog named Winston, a sweet little Westie.

Winston.

We got Winston when he was a puppy, 18 years ago.

We brought him home from the farm to live with our family.

Winston.

We went on lots of adventures together, but his favorite place in the world was the beach.

Winston.

All of our kids grew up with Winston.  

Winston loved going to the kids’ basketball games and track meets and being with his family.

Winston.

If you’ve been around the blog since the early days, you might remember Winston sneaking
into pictures and just being the blog dog around The Inspired Room.  

Winston.

Even though he was getting up there in years, he never stopped loving adventures. 

Winston.

Winston.

A year and a half ago, we added Jack the Goldendoodle to our family. 

Jack knew Winston was special, even though he wished he would play with him.

Winston.

In Winston’s final days, Jack was right there, tenderly watching over him while he rested.

Winston.

On Saturday morning, Winston passed peacefully away after 18 years as a beloved part of our family.

It broke our hearts to say good-bye.

Winston was SO loved and we will miss him every day. 

161 Comments

  1. Becky K

    Melissa,
    I am so sorry. Losing a furry part of the family hurts incredibly, even after just a couple of years….but after 18?
    Wow. You were blessed with winston’s presence for a wonderfully long time. Your photos and memories are so precious. Thank you for sharing…..I’ll be praying for you.
    The photo of jack watching over winston is amazing.
    Hugs.
    becky

    Reply
  2. Alaina

    So sorry for you. A beloved pet is a family member not an animal.

    Reply
  3. christine aldinger

    when my mother-in-law passed away i took her westie in as my own what a special dog he was just as your winston…..i know this hurt all to well the pain goes on for a long time but it gets easier in time….some pets are just unforgettable and were special to our heats.

    Reply
  4. cassie

    oh, i am so sorry for your loss. losing a dog is never easy. :( thinking of your family.

    Reply
  5. Vee

    So sorry to learn this because, silly me, I feel as if I know Winston from those Early Days of Blogging. Much comfort to you all. What a good dog he Was and just plain CUte, Too.

    Reply
  6. Lori H

    SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR SWEET PUP. WESTIES ARE SO WONDERFUL! OUR HOBBES IS 8 YEARS OLD AND WE HOPE HE WILL LIVE AS LONG AND ADVERTUROUS A LIFE AS WINSTON DID. I HAVE ENJOYED GLIMPSES OF WINSTON AS LONG AS I HAVE BEEN READING YOUR BLOG!

    Reply
  7. Linda Stoll

    oh such a huge loss for your family … I am so sorry …

    Reply
  8. John

    So sorry for your families loss, looks like you brought many years of happiness to a little white fur ball

    Reply
  9. Mary r

    So sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  10. Erin W

    i am so very sorry!

    Reply
  11. Katie

    I’m so sorry for your loss. Our pets leave us too soon.

    Reply
  12. Susan Dumont

    So sorry to hear this news. Losing a cherished family member is so hard.
    Thinking of your family today.

    Reply
  13. FairfieldHouse

    Melissa,
    I was in the car with Thomas yesterday morning and out of the blue I announced that I miss buster and wondered if Winston, your ‘Wonder Dog’ was still with you or getting into mischief with our BUster the Beast.
    I know Winston had a good life and was loved. I also know that you are the kind of person he believed you to be.
    Dogs are allowed in heaven,
    Your friend,
    Deborah

    Reply
  14. HElen Ryder

    Oh no, my heart is breaking for you. So sorry to hear your sad news. I hope you and your family will be ok.
    Helen; Brisbane, Australia

    Reply
  15. DENISE

    i FEEL YOUR PAIN AND i AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
    gOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!

    Reply
  16. Beverly

    I know I left you a note on Facebook, but I just had to come by once more to tell you I’m sorry about your Winston. He loved you all well, and was well loved in return.

    Of course I remember him all of these years, and he always made me smile.♥

    Reply
  17. Sherri

    Winston was a very lucky dog to have been so loved. Your family was also lucky to have shared so many years with him ……. what a blessing! Now he’s joined all our dearly loved furry friends after crossing the rainbow bridge, happy and carefree.
    r.i.p. Winston.

    Reply
  18. Alison

    Actually brought me to tears. Even though I didn’t know your dog, they are like children and I have been through that kind of loss in the past. He lived a long life. I hope you have nothing but wonderful memories with him and know he is in a better place,

    Reply
  19. Monique Liddle

    Our four-legged members of our family become just as important as our human family members. This post about winston shows how much he was loved by you all. My dear dog, akea, died in late sept 2006 & and I still miss her to this day because she was such a huge part of my life going through different relationships with me, graduate school, and being with me when i was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, & so much more.so, I can understand a little bit of the loss you are feeling. When I get thst sore spot in the middle of my chest from thinking of Akea, I think about how she loved to go for runs in the fields and jump like a jackrabbit, & curl around my feet. Bless you and your family for all the wonderful times you had with Winston.

    Monique

    Reply
  20. janet lavine

    So sorry to hear abou t your adorable Wnston. As I read your post, my cockapoo Buzzy is sitting by my side wondering why I am crying. Dogs are such a huge part of your family and make us the compassionate people we are. They give us so much and only ask for love in return. How blessed you were to have winston in your life for 18 years and how blessed he was to have your family give him such a long and happy iife full of adventures. I hope your heavy heart gets lighter each day as you smile at all your beautfiul memories together.

    Reply
  21. Susan

    I am grateful you experienced the joy of knowing and loving Winston. AND Think of the joy your family brought him! remember that you will be together forever in spirit – you will see each other again one day in heaven. Wishing you peace and comfort.

    Reply
  22. michelle

    Oh I’m so sorry for you and your family. This post brought tears to my eyes.

    Reply
  23. Sherry

    I am so sorry…..thinking of you all

    Reply
  24. Kathleen

    Thank you for posting. I have a 17 yr old little guy that I’m babying along. I pray he goes quietly in his sleep. My heart goes out to you…I know how hard it is.

    Reply
  25. Gina

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I have a 17 year old long haired dacshund and know he will be leaving us soon. It is so hard losing a beloved pet. They are part of the family.

    Reply
  26. Julia

    What a wonderful tribute to Winston. Loved seeing all the photos through the years. It’s so hard to say goodbye to a dog who has been part of the family for so long!

    Reply
  27. Rebecca Ransick

    Deepest sympathy to you and your family.pets are family members, I know how much it hurts.
    Rebecca

    Reply
  28. Sally

    So Sorry to hear of your loss. They are as special to us as our children are. Keep the good memories close to your heart and he will never be far.

    Reply
  29. maria

    You are all in my prayers…it is so hard to lose a member of the family…so much sharedL! My Cameron 10 yr. old was sad to hear it too!

    Reply
  30. Adrienne

    I’m so sorry you had to say goodbye to Winston. I always loved seeing his sweet face. We said goodbye to our elderly kitty last month and I know how it hurts. sending hugs and prayers to each of you.
    ~Adrienne~

    Reply
  31. Vicky

    I am so sorry for your loss. My dog sam died 8 years ago and I still miss him.

    Reply
  32. Faith

    Oh, Melissa, I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. our pets enrich our lives so much. i truly believe they are a special gift from god. who but god could provide such a wonderful blessing? they love us just like we are – on our good days and our bad ones – just like he does. wishing you all peace and comfort. xo, faith

    Reply
  33. Christy

    What a special family member Winston was. I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are like family members. In November 2011, I lost my cat of 25 years. It is so difficult, but waht a blessing to have had him in your lives for 18 years!

    Reply
  34. Peggy

    Melissa–
    so sorry TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR BELOVED PUPPY OF SO MANY YEARS. MOST OF US WHO LOVE OUR DOGS KNOW HOW YOU FEEL.
    THANK YOU FO ALL YOUR WONDERFUL INSPIRATION…………….

    Reply
  35. Lindsay wade

    WE lost our dear 12 year old dog in september, there are just never enough moments with these furry hearts in our lives.
    i cried while reading your beautiful tribute to winston, and how patient and loving jack was with him. it will be a huge loss for all of you and you are in your readers thoughts as if it was our own loss.
    i wish you strength and happy memories of dear winston.

    Reply
  36. MK

    I have never met any of you, but I cried as I read this post. Dogs really are part of our family. So sorry for your loss. He was a lucky dog to have all of you.

    Reply
  37. Debbie

    I am so sorry for your loss, the love Winston gave you will stay with you forever. We lost our beloved Cocker, Sandy, about 6 years ago, and I still miss her.

    Reply
  38. Loretta

    Oh, I am so sorry. when my little cat, mimi died, i just cried long and hard. i grieved fully and completely. i thanked god for every memory and moment of magic and joy and love that she had given to me. she showed me god’s grace in her suffering. she allowed me to do things to her that she needed for her illness, she trusted me. animals are god’s gift to us. i will always treasure that precious little face and that sweet little meow. i am grieving with you in the loss of your family member. <3 much love and sending god's comfort to you. warm regards, loretta

    Reply
  39. Jessica

    I’m so sorry for your loss. He lived a great, long life with you guys.

    Reply
  40. Pam

    So,so sorry. Breaks my heart.

    Reply
  41. Krissy

    I am so sorry to hear this. They become almost one of your kids, don’t they? I don’t know what I would do without my little Ellie. Stay strong. He lived a very long life. And no doubt a very happy and fun one and I’m sure he will never forget you as well :)

    Reply
  42. Mary Lynn

    what a sweet tribute to winston. so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  43. Michelle

    So sorry for your loss – no matter how much you think you know you love and will miss them it still comes as a shock to your heart when the time comes to say good bye – hoping you can find comfort in all the special memories you have of him.

    Reply
  44. Stacey

    I’m so sorry for your loss. It is very hard for the whole family.

    Reply
  45. Katie

    Thinking of you all today! Last Summer our 12 year old black lab died…. we now have the most adorable shih tzu you have ever laid eyes on! Even though it hurts, just remember that there is no great loss without some small gain:)

    Reply
  46. Rebecca

    Very sorry for your loss. I have lost a beloved pet before and I truly understand how you feel about Winston. Very sad. Pets add so much to our lives and are really such a blessing.

    Reply
  47. Barb

    i am so saddened to hear of your loss. I had a mini poodle as a tween for 17 years. It’s been 30 years since i lost her, but i still mourn occasionally, but mostly remember fondly the time we spent together. i am a better person because of her!

    Reply
  48. Penny

    Melissa ,
    I’m so very sorry for you and your Family.I know how painful it can be to lose a beloved companion.I hope that one day your hearts won’t feel as heavy and pray that your memories of Winston, which they seem to of been many wonderful ones will overcome the emptiness of his loss .
    Prayers and hugs to you and your Family

    Penny

    Reply
  49. Heather

    I am so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  50. Kerri, A Pop of Pretty

    I have tears in my eyes reading this post. we lost our 13 year old black lab last year at this time, so i know how devastating a loss this is for you. It’s also so sad for any remaining pets (we still have another dog too), but with lots of extra human attention, they learn to adjust. 18 years is an incredible amount of time to have been blessed with winston. Sending you big hugs, melissa. ~Kerri

    Reply
  51. Paminoh

    I am so sorry for your loss. My family also have lost many special pets and know the emptiness of your home right now. I just finished reading ‘Proof of Heaven’ and my favorite part was that dogs were indeed in Heaven. Of course, we animals lovers already knew this..
    Hugs to you.

    Reply
  52. JoAnn

    So sorry for your loss – RIP Winston. We have pets that are “really, really” part of opur family too. May your hearts be comforted by the overflowing memories and love that you all and Winston shared.

    Reply
  53. Joann

    So sorry for your loss. Winston was obviously well loved and well taken care of and brought much joy into your family’s life.

    Reply
  54. jezz

    What tender-hearted photos–you can see he had a wonderful family!

    Reply
  55. Nancy

    So sorry to hear of your families loss. A pet is such a wonderful gift. We have lost pets in the past and it’s so hard. We have a black lab now that we got as a pound pup last year and we hope she is part of our family for many many years. She gives such unconditional love to us and our grandkids. When I say “the kids are here” she runs to look out the window with tail wagging. She is by my side right now looking up as if to say “why are you sad?”. They just seem to know when you need some extra lovin. :) I am new here but your little Winston looked like such a little cutie. I am sure he brought your family years of joy. God bless you all.

    Reply
  56. Catherine

    I’m so sorry for your loss. We lost our sweet annie last year and understand what you are going through.
    Hugs,
    Cathie

    Reply
  57. susan

    I am in tears for you and your family. It reminds me that the time our furry friends are here with us is so limited and we need to cherish it all, what a blessing to have Winston with you for 18 years – that is so great. It certainly doesn’t make it easier to lose Him. As we struggle with a dog who is having seizures and the unknown of how long he will be with us, I am reminded to love on him everyday – Praying for your family.

    Reply
  58. Anja

    So sorry for your Loss! Losing a dog is like losing a beloved member of the family in many ways, All those great memories with winston will keep the memories fresh =)

    Reply
  59. Mandy

    My condolences in your loss. Our fur babies bring us many joys. May you be blessed learning to live with the quiet now in your life.

    Reply
  60. Kathi Johnson

    I am so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  61. Lynne

    So sorry for your loss. I’m glad you have Jack to love through all of this. Thanks for sharing with us.

    Reply
  62. Lynn Mosher

    Oh, Melissa, I am so sorry for your loss. Those members of the family that happen to always wear a fur coat are very precious to those who have lived with them. It is always a sad time when one departs from our presence. Praying for your broken hearts.

    Reply
  63. Shari

    I’m so sorry to hear about winston. He was a lucky boy to have spent so many years with such a loving family.

    Reply
  64. Jacqui

    I too have lost a beloved dog and I can relate to the heartache you and your family are feeling right now. Winston will be rembered in the folk lore of your family’s history. Sounds like he gave you lots of blessings in return or your love. God bless

    Reply
  65. Kim

    So sorry! Our animals are such a part of our lives, like children. Your family was blessed with 18 Winston years! My heart goes out to you all. We lost our first dog after 17 years, our first grade son had written to Santa asking for a gog……Mom wasn’t so happy about it, but turned out to be the best thing ever. We currently have two dogs and our old dog is getting on in age, trying to mentally prepare myself for the day. My thoughts are with you all.

    Reply
  66. ginaE

    Your post for Winston is lovely. Having just lost my beloved lab right before thanksgiving, your post touched me very much.
    i loved seeing the photos of jack watching over winston. animals feel the loss too. i’ve seen it many times when i’ve lost dogs and cats over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. i firmly believe you will see winston again.
    hugs to you all.

    Reply
  67. Robyn johnson

    I am SO sorry to hear of your loss. I know he will be in your hearts forever.

    Reply
  68. antiquechase

    18 years you must have wonderful wonderful memories. I’m sorry for your loss. that’s a big one. our golden is 11 and he’s really slowing down … they are such a wonderful part of our lives.

    Reply
  69. joan

    I AM SO SORRY ABOUT WINSTON’S PASSING ! a DOG IS a best friend and a true and complete member of a family. My prayers are with your family.

    Reply
  70. Sharon

    Melissa, so sorry for the loss of your cherished winston. I’m sure all the smiles he provided through the years will make for wonderful memories for you and your family., and heal the grief you all feel. I especially enjoyed your pictures that were posted, he was a Lovely soul!

    Reply
  71. aLEXIS

    I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS OF YOUR BELOVED WINSTON. PETS ARE CLOSER TO US THEN ANY HUMANFAMILY AS SUCH THEY ARE THE MOST DIFFICULT LOSS AS THEY GAVE US UNCONDITIONAL LOVE THAT NO HUMAN GIVE US. SUSTAINING THEIR LOSS IS A GREATEST GRIEF E IN OUR LIVES THAT ACHES FOREVER. . REMEMBER ALL THE BEAUITFUL TRIP TO THE BEACH, WALKS AND JOY HE GAVE YOU. SENDING HEALING PRAYERS. HE WAS LUCKY TO HAVE SUCH A LOVING FAMIILY.

    Reply
  72. Rondell

    So sorry about WinsTON, HE LOVED YOU TOO AND YOU GAVE HIM A GREAT HOME AND DOGGY LIFE!

    Reply
  73. Carolyn

    So sorry about the loss of your precious dog. I have had a number of dogs in my life, two of them I grieved for a long time. They aren’t just animals, they are part of our families and our every day life.

    Reply
  74. Joanie

    What a sweet tribute to a darling dog. Those pictures of him are so beautiful. I’m sorry for your loss – it’s hard to lose a friend like that, especially one so part of your family as the kids were growing up. It looks like he was one of the best!

    Reply
  75. Lisbeth

    Mellissa

    Our family’s heartfelt sympathy goes out to yo and all of your family. I’m not sure what I have enjoyed more since i started following you over a year ago: your home inspiration or your dog pics and stories. what a dog gives us is indescribable- i hope all the pictures and memories of winston help fill the void of losing such a treasure member of your family.

    xoxo

    Lisbeth

    Reply
  76. Cindy

    MY HEART ACHES FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WE HAVE LOST 3 CATS AND 1 DOG TO OLD AGE OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS AND THERE ISN’T A DAY THAT GOES BY THAT I DON’T THINK ABOUT AND MISS EACH OF THEM. wHILE YOU WERE SAYING GOODBYE TO WINSTON YESTERDAY, WE WERE GETTING THE NEWS THAT OUR 3 YEAR OLD RESCUE PIT, WHO WE HAVE HAD FOR ONLY 10 MONTHS, HAS A MAST CELL TUMOR. WE SPENT THE NIGHT CRYING AND THEN I READ ABOUT WINSTON THIS MORNING. I’M SO GLAD YOU HAD 18 WONDERFUL YEARS WITH HIM – IT IS SUCH A LESSON TO REMEMBER TO TREASURE EVERY MOMENT, EVERY SLOPPY KISS, EVERY WAG OF THEIR TAILS. AS I PRAY FOR OUR SAMMY, I WILL PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY, BUT KNOW HE IS WAITING FOR YOU AT RAINBOW BRIDGE.

    Reply
  77. Laura Toller Gardner

    May your mutual love continue to bless each of you. And peaceful
    Journey to Winston, a magnificent spirit!

    Reply
  78. Patricia

    I’m writing this through my tears – I’m so , so sorry for your great loss…..We recently lost our beloved lab, bo, after 12 years…. You were so blessed to have winston for 18 years, but how hard it is once they are gone…..winston was greatly loved, I can tell, and you will all miss him. But you gave him a wonderful, full, long life……..happy trails winston…….

    Reply
  79. Laura

    There is nothing worse than losing the love of a devoted pet. they become so much a part of our family and our lives. It looks like he was so well cared for and loved and had a fantastic life. I am so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  80. Gail

    18 years! Obviously Winston was well loved and tended to .

    Sorry for your ooss of this beloved one

    Reply
  81. Karen on Bainbridge Island

    your family loved winston and gave him a wonderful life. you will miss him sorely, but you have your memories forever.

    Reply
  82. diane

    I am so sorry for your family’s loss. We recently lost our 16 year old cocker spaniel, Phoebe, and felt very lucky to have had her for so long. I hope you find peace and comfort in the memory of that sweet face.

    Reply
  83. Valerie

    I am so very very sorry to hear of your precious little winston….he was adorable…..my heartfelt sympathy to your family…..you were all very fortunate to have each other in your lives xox

    Reply
  84. klk

    I am so sorry for your loss. You gave Winston a wonderful life…and he gave you much love and many wonderful memories in return. What a gift you shared. our little wooly beast is half westie, half cairn. wishing you peace and joy in the memories of your journey with Winston.

    Reply
  85. Cynthia Toone riley

    What a wonderful tribute. I am deeply sorry for your loss, as I have a much loved Westie, Macintosh, and can’t imagine the pain in losing her. Winston obviously was given a perfect life…you should be soothed knowing that.

    Reply
  86. Donna W

    I’m so sorry that you lost your beloved dog. I had a Westie who live to be 17 years old so I know how hard it is to say goodby. Maybe it helps to remember that although their lives are all too short, Westies truly make the most of the time they’re given on this earth. They are such happy little dogs; so full of love and enthusiasm. As you said, they’re always up for the next adventure.
    So the memories live on. My Dougle has been gone several years but we never tire of telling stories about his antics. Aren’t we lucky to have shared our lives with such exceptional little characters?

    Reply
  87. Charlotte Orth

    so sorry about the loss of your little buddy. I have cats that lived 18 and 19 yEars and it is very hard to let them go. Winston will be waiting for you in heaven.

    Reply
  88. Krystin

    So sorry to hear about Winston. Losing a friend is tough, but hang in there and support one another through it.

    Reply
  89. Kirsten

    My family lost our dog, Winston, last Friday, too … Our thoughts are with you :)

    Reply
  90. Michelle

    I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is hard. You will never forget him and he will always be with you. THank you for giving him a good home for so long. He was lucky to have you.

    Reply
  91. Kerry Woods

    I had tears running down my cheeks as I read your pictoral tribute to winston…we lost our bichon, sophie at 16 years. She died the morning after our first (and only) grandchild was born. I’ve always felt as if she waited until our grandaughter was born, and then felt it was ok to leave. It’s now been 4 years, and we are feeling ready to fall in dog-love again!! thanks for sharing the love!

    Reply
  92. Margie POusardien

    Dear Melissa and Family,
    My heart grieves for your Loss of Winston. He was such a precious Dog and wonderful companion to your family for the past 18 years. May you find comfort and strength in the days ahead. I’m so happy you have jack to love on.:)
    Margie Pousardien

    Reply
  93. kristenkj

    I am so sorry to hear this — I know how hard it is to lose a family member like that. You know, we get a Dog knowing full well that we are most certainly going to outlive it. But no matter, we are heartbroken when they leave us. In time it does get easier. You never really forget, but it does get easier.

    Reply
  94. Sandra at Thistle Cove Farm

    It’s always so hard to say good-bye; the thought that brings me the greatest comfort is when I get to heaven, there’ll be a pack of dogs who know me as “Mom”!

    Reply
  95. judi

    oh melissa,
    my heart goes out to you. we lost our cairn terrier (just like toto) in 2010 and had to make the very difficult decision of putting her down. she was 15 years old and had been slowing down and losing her appetite. we knew she was getting old and it may be her last year. i so wanted to get her a companion but the timing wasn’t right. it was 10 days later that we found our laci (a jack russell rescue). so glad that your jack was there for winston.

    Reply
  96. Marilyn

    OH Melissa, I’m so sorry for your loss.

    (This seems to be stuck in bold and caps. I tried changing it and couldn’t. sorry.)

    Reply
  97. Pinky

    I am so sorry. I know how you are feeling: we had our toy poodle for 17 1/2 years. When she died I could not get another dog, it was too hard. I know Winston will be so missed. I am glad you have another dog to keep you company. XO, Pinky

    Reply
  98. Rhonda

    oh melissa – i am so so sorry. as i read your blog today, i broke down in tears and sobbed. i am sitting here now still crying. i can’t imagine having a dog for 18 years and then he is gone. You were so blessed to have him for such a long time.. i know jack will give you twice the love now to help you through this difficult time.

    Reply
  99. Lori

    So sorry. Such a sweet, sweet face. Jack was such a good boy to stay right by him.

    Reply
  100. Pam from Louisville

    I’m so sorry about Winston. I’m sending a message to our English Mastiff Kingsfield to look for Winston in doggie Heaven. Kingsfield will show Winston around and make all the doggie introductions with him. I know Winston will be missed by your family and I wish he could have stayed with you just a little longer.

    Reply
  101. Linda Bates

    Oh Melissa I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of your much loved Winston. It is always a sad day when we have to say goodbye to one of our fur babies, and I know how you will all be feeling. Thank you for sharing your pictures – the one of Jack watching over Winston is really poignant. Love & prayers to you and your family <3

    Reply
  102. Nann

    Understanding your pain … they love us unconditionally, always keep our secrets and are always delighted to see us. They are truly a gift, bring us much joy and add so much to our families.

    Reply
  103. Kimberlie Rice

    God bless you Winston Sweetheart. And may he be with your your family during this difficult time.

    Kim Rice

    Reply
  104. Lin

    You sweet post about Winston made my heart hurt for you and your family. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. If you have not read The Rainbow Bridge, try and do that because that has always helped me when I have lost one of my dear precious babies! http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=rainbow%20bridge%20poem%20original&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CC8QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.petloss.com%2Frainbowbridge.htm&ei=qa0qUZjbFoba9ATf0oDACQ&usg=AFQjCNH2Bpm7iqsJrk0Gkc9Q3OLME0YF2g&bvm=bv.42768644,d.eWU

    Reply
  105. NANCY

    mY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
    pETS TOUCH OUR LIVES IN THEIR OWN SPECIAL WAYS AND REMAIN FOREVER IN THE wARMEST cORNERS OF OUR hEARTS…

    Reply
  106. Richella at Imparting Grace

    Oh, Melissa. I am so sorry. It makes me cry just to think of your loss. I will never forget the pain of holding my “firstborn”–Freckles the Basset hound. We got Freckles when I was a few months pregnant with my oldest child. My boys never knew a family without Freckles. Saying good-bye was so hard! What a privilege it is to share a home with a dog. I wish my heart were as pure and stalwart as my dogs’ hearts are!

    Bless you as you grieve.

    Reply
  107. Louise in NE OK

    Beautifully written…..I was comforted by this quite from Martin Luther when our Yorkie died…..”Godspeed! Be thou comforted little dog. Thou, too, in the Resurrection shall have a golden tail.” I also read on a blog some time ago a lady by the name of Martha said, “It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog that comes into my life gives me a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.”

    I am so sorry for your loss……Godspeed, Winston.

    Reply
  108. courtney

    I am so sorry for your loss. Winston has such a sweet face! Praying for comfort and peace. I know our doggie children are very special to the family.

    Reply
    • lizanne mckay

      Oh, I am so sorry. It is so gut wrenching. They are such a constant in our lives and there is such a void when they are gone. He was so loved and you will always have him in your heart.

      Reply
  109. Marla

    wHAT AN AMAZING DOG wINSTON MUST have been! He was so darling, just like the family he belonged to!
    Empathy hugs from our family to yours.
    may God comfort you with the memories as Winston will be ever in your hearts.

    Reply
  110. Vicki

    Thank you so much for sharing Winton with us. He was a lucky dog to have a good family and a loving ‘brother’ dog. .

    Reply
  111. Michelle

    I am sorry sorry to hear about Winston. I have only been following your blog for around 6 months but i feel like I know a bit about him due to some of your posts. He must have been a very well loved and cared for dog to have lived for 18 years! i too had tears running down my cheek as i read your post as from experience i know that losing a dog who is part of your family can break your heart. it looks like you have lots of happy memories to remember him by.

    Reply
  112. Lisa

    We have our own little Westie who we call Sally. I feel your sadness at losing winston. Westies are special little dogs that don’t really know that they are little.

    Reply
  113. Bobbi michelle

    Thank you for sharing your winston with us. he is now in heaven with my love dog max and they are having so much fun… i just know they are the most popular doggies in heaven! (hugs)

    Reply
  114. Carmen

    So, so sorry for your loss. It is heartbreaking when we lose one of our furry children. So thankful Winston had such a loving family all of his years. Blessings to all.

    Reply
  115. Barbara (WA)

    What a sweet tribute to your beloved family member, Winston. Seeing him as a young pup with your young children is so precious. I’ll be thinking of your family. Hugs, Barb

    Reply
  116. Kathy

    So very sorry and know how much he meant to you. Words cannot help, but knowing that you have shared a tribute to him with everyone is so meaningful.

    Reply
  117. Rachel

    I’m so sorry for your loss. Winston is so handsome and Jack is as well. I lost my beloved childhood pet, Rocky, after 18 years as well. I miss him everyday and it has been so heartwarming to have our new little guy in our lives. Pets are so very important and it is always wonderful to see how much a pet is loved in other families.

    All my best, Rachel

    Reply
  118. Claire

    Oh gosh, what a sweet tribute to your furry family member! We lost our black lab a few months back and he was only 14 but it really does leave a little void with all of the memories and family adventures. I am So sorry for your loss – I can tell by the pictures that he was about the happiest, luckiest pup ever.
    Hugs,
    Claire

    Reply
  119. Funky Junk Interiors

    Oh Melissa, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Your tribute for winsoton was just the perfect way to honour him. {hugs}

    Reply
  120. Sue

    Thank you for sharing YOUR MEMORIES OF YOUR BELOVED wINSTON. wHEN YOU PUT SO MUCH LOVE TOWARDS A DOG YOU RECEIVE A 100 FOLD BACK.
    Cheers
    Sue

    Reply
  121. Fiona's Mosaic

    My heart goes out to you all. I know how much you will miss him. I have so been there. :o(

    Be forwarned though that Jack will probably have a very hard time and grieve deeply. Our dogs will wander the house crying looking for the one not there. They sometimes lose their appetite. This has happened to us a few times now, so it doesn’t seem to be a one time reaction. We as humans understand what happened, but Jack won’t. If you have a frined with a dog, maybe arrange a playdate for Jack every so often just to help him. Our doggies grieved so much we ended up getting another dog fairly soon.

    I’ll be praying for all of you. He was such a cutie pie. {{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{melissa & Family}}}}}}}}}}}
    Hugs and love my friend.

    Reply
  122. Staci

    I am so so sorry for the loss of your little Winston. What an adorable little fella he was :) Dogs really “complete” our lives in unimaginable ways forever leaving their pawprints on our hearts <3 Looks like he lived a wonderful life surrounded by so much love :)

    Reply
  123. Karen s. Calvert

    I lost my Benjamin after 18( blonde shih tzu I know you guys
    Have a heavy heart. Please know I have wonderful memories now and it was still with, a heavyt

    Reply
  124. Lori

    I am so sorry about your baby. That brought me to tears.

    Reply
  125. Julie d

    I am so very sorry for your loss. Our dog of 14 years recently passed away, and it is just heartbreaking. My thoughts are with you.

    Reply
  126. Carolyn

    I’m so sorry for your loss, Melissa. we lost our sadie in October. I remember someone commenting that losing a pet feels like your heart is being ripped out of your chest, and i thought that was very accurate. I’m glad you have Jack to comfort you. we adopted a rescue dog this winter who has brought comfort and joy to our lives. sending you a virtual hug :)

    Reply
  127. Jennifer

    I’m so sorry! My cat of 15 years passed away last year and it’s still hard for all of us. We have a new, sweet puppy we love, but we all still think about our Sugar all the time. I love that his buddy, Jack, was there for him. So sweet.

    Reply
  128. Terry

    wow. 18 years. That’s amazing. May the Lord comfort you as you grieve.

    Reply
  129. julie

    So sorry to hear about Winston… We had to say goodbye to our 15 year old jack russell terrier just before thanksgiving 2012. We miss her dearly and completely understand what you are going through.

    Reply
  130. Jenny

    Winston was so cute, You people have great time with Winston. It is so sad. Thanks for sharing memories.

    Reply
  131. Colleen

    What a beautiful tribute to Winston and your memories with him. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. My precious Yorkie is almost 11. I hope I get many more years with him. Pets are such an important part of lives. Too bad humans don’t have the same qualities as a good dog. ;)

    Reply
  132. Jayne Rogers

    MELISSA,
    i AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT WINSTON. i HAVE ALWAYS ENJOYED YOUR BLOG AND CATCHING PICTURES OF WINSTON. WE HAVE A WESTIE, LIBBY, WHO IS 9 NOW AND I HOPE AND PRAY WE CAN ENJOY HER FOR ANOTHER 9 YEARS. DOGS ARE A PART OF THE FAMILY AND I KNOW YOUR HEART IS SAD. REMEMBER, ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN AND WINSTON IS A HAPPY, HEALTHY WESTIE ONCE AGAIN. HE WAS WELL LOVED BY YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

    THANK YOU FOR SHARING WINSTON AND JACK WITH US.

    Reply
  133. Lisa B

    so sorry for your loss. Those are great pictures and you obviously have lots of great memories. Thank you for sharing them. Take care.

    Reply
  134. kristin

    I am so sorry. Loosing a furry friend is hard, we just lost our jack russel last month, it still hurts. Hugs
    Kristin

    Reply
  135. Andrea Wood

    My family’s prayers are with you, Melissa. Thanks for opening your home to all of us and sharing your dear winston with us. What a wonderful thing a beloved dog is to a home. You and your family would love the book Dog heaven — an absolute treasure that a dear friend gave to us upon the passing of our first dog.

    thinking of you all.
    Andrea

    Reply
  136. irene

    oh, dear friend, so sorry for winston! But he did live a long and well loved life.
    sending you kisses
    xoxo

    Reply
  137. karen

    blog posts don’t often lead me to tears, but i felt your loss as i read this. i am truly sorry for your loss. the loss of the love of a pet is a big one.

    Reply
  138. Kim

    I know how awesome dogs can be and how they are very much a part of the family. My heart goes out to you and your family. He was precious and I do remember seeing his cute little face sneaking into photos on your blog. Sending you a great big hug!

    ~Kim

    Reply
  139. Christine

    Sympathies and hugs to you. I am so very sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  140. Megan

    Oh Mellisa- I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a Pet is never easy. They become so much a part of ones life. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family. If I had an icon for arms they would be sending out a big hug. take care.

    Reply
  141. BeckyB

    Oh Melissa, I am so sorry to hear this news. I remember first seeing Winston on your blog and leaving a comment about our Westie, Bonnie. We lost her a couple almost 3 years ago (http://haveacupwithme.blogspot.com/2010/05/bon-bon.html) and I completely understand what you’re feeling after his passing. It is so hard. Wiping away a few tears for you today…
    Becky

    Reply
  142. Tracy

    Allways a sad time when a beloved pet leaves our side

    Reply
  143. Sharon Axelrod

    PLEASE ACCEPT MY SYMPATHY ON THE LOSS OF SUCH AN IMPORTANT MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY.

    Reply
  144. Moyra Gaunt

    melissa and Family,

    May I extend my sympathies to you and your family with the passing of Winston. You gave him a warm,and loving home. he wase a very lucky dog to be loved by you all….R.I.P. Winston. From a friend in Australia.

    Moyra

    Reply
  145. Nina

    I’ve recently started reading your blog and haven’t commented before. We lost our beloved Buffy this past summer and know what a loss you are going through. Condolences. what a lovely tribute to winston.

    Reply
  146. Nancy

    i WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT MY HEART IS WITH YOU. wE ARE ANIMAL LOVERS AND PET OWNERS TOO AND THEY MEAN THE WORLD TO US.
    i ONCE READ THAT A DOG IS THE ONLY THING ON EARTH THAT LOVES YOU MORE THAN HE LOVES HIMSELF. tHIS COULD NOT BE MORE TRUE.
    fIND A SMILE IN YOUR MEMORIES OF WINSTON.

    Reply
  147. Louise

    Winston — searing grief

    Newest angel in the heavens

    Sound and strong

    Made of love

    Hearts full, all

    Love. Love. Love

    Reply
  148. Jen

    My heart breaks for you. What a lucky dog Winston was to have a family like yours. I’ll be thinking about you and your family.

    Reply
  149. Pam

    Melissa, i’m so sorry for your loss of winston. what an endearing face! i’ve always loved the photos you’ve shared and could see his personality in them. i pray all your treasured memories will make you smile most of all.
    you won’t believe this but i have actually been thinking about your winston for the last week… i’ve been getting back into pen and ink drawings, and wanting to capture some character and charm of old fashioned rooms, last week I did a piece that for some reason reminded me of all the photos you used to share of him. The dog itself is a different breed, but every time i look at the piece, I think of it as “winston” making his morning spot in a lovely old wing chair by the floor to ceiling window..

    Reply
  150. Pam

    Sorry for all the typos! I have trouble seeing the type on this comment box… it’s all caps while i’m typing…

    Reply
  151. mrs crowley

    So sorry for your loss.
    Thank you for sharing you tender moments with us.
    Respectfully,
    Mrs. Crowley – Portland, Oregon

    Reply
  152. Donna White

    Nothing puts a lump in your throat and tears in your eyes than a beautiful little white fluffy dog. Bye Winston.r

    Reply
  153. Sallie

    Just reading this post today. Shedding tears with you and for you. I will miss Winston, too, just from your blog. Rest now, sweet puppy.

    Reply
  154. Susan

    I am so sorry to hear about your Winston. I too had a Westie for 13 years, Elvis. Westies are such a fun dog, I still miss him. It is funny to think we now have a Goldendoodle! His name is Nigel. He is a warm 83pounds and a lap dog. Animals bring out the best in us. I am sorry your heart is broken, only time and good memories will help you right now. Please know I am sorry for your loss.

    with laughter

    Reply
    • Melissa

      Thank you Susan, we sure miss him but Jack brings a lot of joy to our home! Jack is only 46 pounds so he’s not quite as big as your Nigel, but he thinks he is a lapdog too! :-)

      Reply
  155. Ruth E Chidley

    Dear Melissa,
    I just read about Winston and his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow. God certainly knew how much we all needed examples of unconditional love when he created our little pets. What wonderful memories you have of your time with Winston.
    We lost our little toy poodle, Charmie, 6 years ago and we still think of how special she was to our family. We recently rescued a toy poodle, Jovert, that has brought such fun and priceless moments of joy to ours lives already. His personality is different than Charmie’s but equally delightful. We are thankful God blessed us again as he has blessed you all with precious Jack. What fun it is to see Jack popping up now and then in your photo shoots along with Winston. Winston will be greatly missed.
    Love and hugs,
    Ruth E

    Reply
  156. Rosemary

    He was adorable! I have two Westies, 10 and 5… Sophie et Margaux. And a white Golden, Marley…can barely walk… 13 plus! Love how you all love your dogs!!

    Reply
  157. Raejean

    I have a Westie. Lizzie. They are most amazing, loyal adventurers of any dog I’ve had. She is so special tome too ❤️

    Reply

Leave a Reply to BeckyB Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 

Decor Finds:

browse categories:

browse archives:

let’s stay connected!

Follow for daily
Home Inspiration:

get my free decorating guide

home decor inspiration, free downloads,
and more, straight to your inbox

css.php