Remembering Miss Pearl

Wednesday, May 11th, 2011

Miss Pearl Foster walked away from her shell yesterday. What
she left behind are many stories of her "antics". Miss Sam Waidler
will never forget the Chocolate Maven 21st birthday cake that
Miss Pearl discovered BEFORE the party began. Linda remembers the lovely white hairs and remnants of daisies that Miss Pearl so creatively left behind on the porch, the lawn, etc. and the many times that Ritz (who now rests next to Pearl) and Miss Pearl romped in the dirt, on the lawn, down the driveway looking for adventures. Hillary and Pascal chuckle at the white dog who resembled their "Mambo". Seems Miss Pearl broke into their house, ate a five pound bag of dog food and then escaped through the dog door. And then there is the Tom story of waking up quite early in the morning by kisses only to discover that it was Miss Pearl demanding a walk-at six am. Evelyn says "she gave me more love and a scare when I went to feed her and thought she was kidnapped only to discover Miss Pearl had opened the door, let herself in and ate everything she could find . " But my favorite remembrance is that of Miss Pearl taking a stroll through the acequia, leading the other dogs (The Bart Lewis Gang) as though she were the Queen on the Mesa De Puleo. Yes, she might have left her shell but what remains is a legend of a creature who was gentle, ferocious in her quest for food, acceptance of other creatures and most of all - generous in her acceptance of me. Tolerant of my monologue rehearsals in which she was the ONLY audience member. Forgiving of my odd habits. Always willing to "get up and go" on a moment's notice. Never running away from my laugh (which is known to be very loud). Most of all, generous with her love which seemed to have no end. Yes, I'll miss her physical presence. Yes, I am grateful that she taught me how to be a better friend (and yikes, did I ever need some lessons). But I know I will grin whenever I hear a paper bag rustle for I'll know it's an angel called Miss Pearl Foster in search of one last treat!