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The Weekly Spark: Original Photography & Reflections

A journal sharing one original photograph and an inspiring thought every Monday morning.

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Our pets are always with us

7/20/2026

 
Ace, the Golden Retriever peeking through the fence
Even though Ace is no longer by my side, his memory stays with me—in everyday moments, in the joy of meeting new dogs, and in the simple connections shared among pet lovers.

​Tomorrow, Tuesday, July 21st, marks the anniversary of saying goodbye to Ace. Anyone who knew Ace—or even met him once—remembers what a sweet dog he was. My son Nick and I brought Ace home as a puppy, and he quickly became a beloved part of our family. Today, Nick and his family have two dogs, Rivers and Sandy—and a cat (Violet) all were adopted from shelters—who now fill their home with love and joy.

​I think about Ace often, especially when I see neighbors out walking their dogs. While no dog could ever replace him, I genuinely enjoy meeting the many dogs in the neighborhood and connecting with other pet owners. Pets have a remarkable way of bringing people together.

​In the photo, it’s a bit hard to see, but Ace is peeking through the cracks in a wooden fence, his nose perfectly framed by a knot in the wood. He was watching Nick and me while we were out front, always wanting to be part of whatever we were doing.
Our pets leave a lasting imprint on our hearts, and their presence lingers in the smiles, stories, and love we continue to share, even after they're gone.

​In the spirit of keeping this space simple and focused entirely on the journey, I’ve decided to transition The Weekly Spark to a comment-free layout. If you’ve left a comment here in the past, please know how much I truly appreciate your support and connection! I still love hearing from you, so if you'd like to share a thought about a weekly reflection, you can always reach me directly on my Contact Page.
​Your comments will be sent directly to my email

Of course, if you already have my direct contact information, please feel free to call, text, or email me anytime!

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