This weekend we said goodbye to our darling golden retriever Gibson. Many of you know how painful it is to part with a pet, and this was no exception.
If you have read this blog over the years, you’ll know that Gibson arrived in our lives the year after I started the blog, in 2011. A fluffy orange colored puppy who settled right in. A few days later, enter puppy Ghetto and the fun began. Over the years Gisbon has posed for so many photos that I didn’t even need to ask him to sit and smile, he just saw the camera and spontaneously got into position, like a pro!
Alongside his soulmate Ghetto, they posed for countless Christmas greetings on the blog, and I think that many of you enjoyed their antics.
They ran away to the forest regularly, always looking for a new adventure.and everyone in the village knew them and would bring them back to us
Our animals give us their love and loyalty without counting or calculating anything in return. Gibson was the perfect gentleman. Thank you so much to everyone who has sent me messages, I know that we are not alone in this painful loss.
121 comments
So sorry! I know how you feel!
I am so sorry for your loss Sharon. We lost our beloved Wheaten Terrier fur baby last week too. I found a wonderful book yesterday that I really recommend to help process the grief, it’s called, “I’m Still Here: A dog’s purpose forever,” by the author Cathryn Michon. It is so touching with lovely illustrations by Seth Taylor.
Thank you for bringing this resource to the conversation. I have just ordered a copy for myself and my family.
Ghetto will miss Gibson also! My sincere condolences to you and your family, Sharon. His spirit will be felt in every future photo as well. Sending hugs .
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your fur-baby Sharon. Those puppy paw prints will stay in your heart and in all the hearts that Gibson touched.
Gosh … have been following for many years and Gibson was always there since the beginning…. feel so sorry for you … but he had a very happy life with you
Gibson ti aiuterà a trovare un’ altra anima gentile….la mia Gina lo ha fatto e mi ha mandato Bugo , il mio bellissimo e buonissimo sprocker.
❤️
Hello Sharon, So sorry to hear about Gibson. We’ve had to say Goodbye to our kitties too. He’s at the Rainbow Bridge in peace. A big hug for Ghetto!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh Sharon, I am so sorry to read of your loss. We’ve been through it with two Goldens and it is truly heartbreaking. I have really enjoyed both dogs’ antics pretty much since the beginning. It will be tough on all of you, including Ghetto. Hold each other tight and remember all the good times. Hugs from New Jersey.
I’m so sorry for your loss and I know you revered Gibson… I just wanted to let you know that his name is misspelled in the body of your blog post. I know you would want to honor him in all aspects.
En paz descanse
Gibson knew he was loved. Dogs stay as long as they can. Arfs and wags to you at this difficult time.
I’m so sorry. I loved their adorable pictures and antics.
Hugs and deepest condolences to you all
I’m sorry to read of your loss, Sharon. I remember when Gibson first came to live with you, and his many appearances on the blog. Hugs.
Heartbreaking…. So very sorry… I’ve been there… and it hurts so much…. for you, Teresa
So sorry for your loss. Pets are just such precious souls. Non judgemental and give unconditional love and loyalty. No human could give you such a wonderful welcome. I am sure you will feel such emptiness but you wl have such fond memories. Gibson willive on in your hearts xx
A very pain journey. We animal parents feel the loss so deeply. Ghetto will be sad as well. You are in my thoughts.
Oh, goodness… my most heartfelt conolences, Sharon. He was, and always will be, a good boy. What wonderful memories he leaves for you and your family.
So sorry to hear about Gibson. We have had Golden Retrievers and Labradors and our last last Labrador is buried under a lovely tree in our garden in SW France. I can still remember the grief we felt on losing her. I really feel for you, Sharon.
I’m so sorry. They leave us all too soon.
Sharon,
So sorry to hear this sad news of Gibson.
I know how hard it is to lose a pet!
They become true family members
and loved so much. We have all loved your pictures over the years of both Gibson and Ghetto. He will be missed ❤️
So very sorry for your loss. We have a beautiful Golden just like your Gibson. He will be 12 this April. He is best buds with his little brother Nelson the Beagle.
I am so sorry. I have enjoyed both of your dogs through the years. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Oh Sharon
The hole Gibson left in your heart is echoing throughout our community. What a beautiful boy he was and I’ll always think of him when I see the photographs of your beautiful home. His personality as a Golden just shone through and added more joy to each of your photos.
I hope as the days pass, your heart will fill with the wonderful memories that you shared and your sadness will turn to smiles. x
My condolences Sharon.
I have experienced the loss of a pet who was with us for a very long time and it was the most painful time of my life. it is going to be 3 years this august and I still miss Molli Bea every day and my heart aches to hold her again., to see her beautiful eyes and watch her sniff all the flowers on our walks. I have been looking for another Havanese and have not found one yet—I feel for you and can only say that the pain will be less intense as time goes by but I think we miss them forever—I wish you well and was very sorry to see Gibson had to leave you. Saundra
I send you my most sincerest condolences.I know when you can, you will celebrate that you had this wonderful friend, companion, soul mate with you in your life. All the best to you.
Oh goodness. I’m so sorry for your loss. Pets are such a precious gift.
I’m so sorry you lost your sweet Gibson. Our pets occupy a very special place in our hearts. Animals give so much, and they ask for so little. Remember that as much as he gave to you, you also gave him a wonderful life.
Oh Sharon, I’m so sorry to hear about your beloved Gibson. Our pets are truly precious family members and I’m sure little Ghetto will be feeling the loss as well. I’m so sorry for your loss….it’s truly heartbreaking!
So sorry. It’s just like losing a child if you have a special dog. I still think of my little cocker spaniel, Bambi, so often and always have a smile on my face, remembering times with her. Hope your memories are as beautiful.
So sorry for your loss. Our 4-legged family members are such a big part of our lives. I lost my dog, Chester, 1 1/2 years ago; one of the saddest days of my life. May your happy memories of Gibson help you through this time. Ever in our hearts, until we meet on the other side.
My sincerest empathy. Losing a pet is one of life’s saddest moments.
Sharon, I’m so sorry. How well I know your pain. I’ve been in your place so many times and it’s such a heartbreaking loss each time. Our pets give us the only unconditional love we’ll experience in life.
Know that many of your readers share your sorrow.
So sorry for The lost of an old soul! ❤️
Dear Sharon,
I am so sorry for your loss; be kind and gentle with yourself because our companions are closer to us in many ways than family members because they are with us all day every day for years. May you be comforted to know that on the other side he is happy, healthy and enjoying new adventures!
I have so enjoyed seeing your pups on the blog. RIP, dear Gibson. I am so sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss, Sharon. My condolences to you and your family.
I am sorry for your family’s and Ghetto’s incredible loss. I hope Ghetto will not be on his (or her) own for too long.
I am so sorry for the loss of your fur baby. They ask so little of us but give us so very much in return. Unconditional love on 4 legs. We lost our Am Staff on Friday. May your memories sustain you as you heal.
Dear Sharon and family, I am saddened to read about Gibson’s passing and I am sorry for your loss. I loved reading your postings about life with him and Ghetto. Hugs to you all. Kind regards, Laura from Ontario
What happy memories you have of Gibson! I am so sorry, it is such a hard thing. My condolences to you.
Sharon, my sincere condolences. Charles
So very sorry. Loved seeing him in your pictures. I know how you must feel. Prayers for you and your family.
Dear Sharon, my heart breaks for your family, so many good memories to remember for many years. My husband and I came to visit many years ago, and your baby was with you. Many a day goes by and I talk to my Lovely I really don’t know what I would do with out her and the love she gives me.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Gibson. My sincere sympathies to you and your family. Gibson looked like the sweetest, gentlest soul. I hope all those wonderful memories of him give you comfort, knowing he lived his best life ever with you.
Oh Sharon, I’m so sorry to read about Gibson. I remember my first visit to France and our stay at your splendid cottage. It was wonderful meeting Gibson & Ghetto then and seeing them grow throughout the years on your blog. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
I am ever so sorry for your loss of darling Gibson. Such a handsome fella who always looked so proud and happy to pose for you. A gorgeous pup who was such a wonderful fixture in your garden. What a life you gave to him. I believe our furry family members are always with us and I believe he will be with you always. May his spirit soar as he crosses the rainbow bridge. I wish you comfort and peace. With love, Lisa
Goldens are such beautiful adoring dogs – my condolences.
Loved seeing Gibson went I visited in the fall two years ago. I sent a photo to my family. They just lost there “Pipper” Hearts hurt when this happens! They are a joy while you have them….
I am so sorry for your loss, dogs are very special and I am certain Gibson loved you as much as you loved him
So sorry to learn of your furry child’s passing. Our dogs are indeed angels on this earth providing happiness and joy, and comfort in our sad times. It’s difficult when they are the ones to leave. Sending warm thoughts your way.
I am so sad for you, your family, and Ghetto! Our family has had Goldens for years, and right now our two
oldest daughters have two more Golden siblings. They bring so much joy and love to everyone, and over the
years we have lost three Goldens. We also had Airedales, who were also amazing family members. I’m sure it
will be sad for Ghetto to lose his companion.
Oh Sharon…….I have been a follower of your blog since your inception….In fact you even sent me a gift once. Losing one’s pet puts such a hole in one’s heart. They are truly a part of the family…soon we will be facing the same thing with our little Cavi..Skyler.
My heart weeps for you.
Jo
Sharon and family,
So very sad to hear about the loss of Gibson. He looks so noble as he poses for a picture. Losing a pet is just so heart-breaking as many of us can attest. Wishing you all comfort as you grieve the loss of a well-loved family member. Give Ghetto extra hugs and cuddles as he will miss his buddy, too.
Dear Sharon and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Gibson. Our 4-legged children are so special to us and bring us so much love. Like so many of the other beautiful comments left so far, our animals are not in our lives long enough. Sending special paws, love and hugs from my mini–Schnauzer Jack and myself. All the best ~ Laura
I’m so sorry, my heart is broken for you
Profound, heartfelt condolences.
GIBSON GOODBYE..SO VERY SORRY
I KNOW THAT FEELING.
THREE MONTHS AGO I LOST MY GREAT LOVE, A WESTY TERRIER “ASLAN”.
16 YEARS OF LOVE!!
I MISS HIM SO MUCH.
NOW HE’S RUNNING SOMEWHERE UNDER A RAINBOW IN THE MEADOWS OF HEAVEN.
The joy they bring is exceeded only by the pain we feel in their absence. Truly remarkable creatures. Very, very sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry for your loss, but they will always be with you. I know my last 4 are.
Oh I am so sorry you lost your darling Gibson! What a beautiful dog. Losing a pet is like losing a dear friend. That is so hard on the heart because a good pet feels our soul. Thinking of you, your family and all who loved Gibson.
Dear Sharon, I have been reading you for years. In your many pictures of Gibson you captured a handsome golden retriever. You also seemed to capture his wonderful personality. It’s as if your photographs of those big brown eyes told his own story. You could tell he was such a happy boy. Happy to belong to you and your family. Happy to run through the forrest and get into playful trouble. Happy to see the neighbors who would bring him back home again. I had a golden retriever named Daisy. I had many dogs and animals in my life. I loved them all with all my heart. However, there was just something about Daisy. It’s as if she could look at me with her big brown eyes and know what king of day I had. If it were a good day she would be happy and seemingly smiling right along with me. If it were a bad day or the very worst day she would sit by my side, look at me with her soulful eyes, place her head on my lap, and make all the stress of the day go away. Gibson was a member of your family who brought great joy and unconditional love. Thank you for sharing him with us over the years. He will not be forgotten. My sincerest sympathy Sharon.
Janet
I’m so so sorry, Sharon.
One thing to remember, while pets are a part of our life, we are their whole life.
What a lucky dog Gibson was to get to have his life with you.❤️
So very sorry. I always enjoyed seeing your dogs. They put a smile on my face. Losing a pet you love will always be remembered in your heart.
Sharon, I am so sorry for your loss. Gibson seemed to be the perfect companion!
Dear Sharon and Family,
Warm hugs and sweet memories of Gibson over the years. I know how much he’ll be missed.
Sincerely,
Dianne
My condolences to you and your family.
You will treasure your memories forever.
Sincerely, Carol
Que triste, realmente es muy doloroso despedir a estos ángeles que llegan a nuestras vidas y nos regalan tanto amor y del mas puro e incondicional afecto. Un abrazo querida Sharon desde la distancia y que el vacio que deja su ausencia este repleto de hermosos momentos y recuerdos. Gibson recibió lo mas importante que es mucho Amor. RIP
So sorry to hear this! I’ve followed you since the blog days and remember when Gibson was a little guy. Such joy dogs bring to our lives❤️
Our pets are part of the family and bring us so much joy. It hurts deeply when they leave us.
Over the years I have had to say goodbye to many wonderful canine companions. Like people, each had a different personality, and I grieved for each of them. So we hold each one in our heart, and our hearts are full. Sympathies to you and your family as you miss your beloved Gibson.
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Gibson, it is so hard to say goodbye to them. Sending best wishes x
Dear Sharon – I grieve with you for the loss of Gibson, truly a dear soul as the pictures of him attest. I’ve lost several dogs during my life and each one is precious – each different. But all of them loving, happy to please, the best of companions – the absolute best of family. God bless him and you and your family.
I’m so sorry you lost your sweet pup. We lost our little shih tzu not too long ago to a seizure. We sure miss her.
The love of a golden retriever is wonderful. I’m so glad you enjoyed years of companionship with him. I send you heartfelt condolences.
My heart began to hurt as soon as this post popped up in my e-mail. I know the pain you are feeling, as we, too, have lost several precious pets. I am sending hugs, condolences, and love from across the miles.
My condolences on the loss of your sweet Gibson. Ever so hard to say goodbye to a beloved friend.❤️❤️❤️
I’m truly sorry about your loss I know what it to loose your best friend. They are our guardian angels for so long and they are called away. The best way to remember them is to find a spot in your garden and place a bench their name on it and you can go their to talk with them. I use the moon I lost a daughter and when she was young she always talked about the moon. I have lost many little angels may our creator be with you always.
Goldens are the best- it’s like losing a family member – because they are family.
It’s always so difficult for we humans, but give Ghetto some extra loving too! Pets are the best whether canine or feline.
Oh my! I’m so sorry Sharon! We had to put our dog down 2 days before Christmas. She was 14. They become such a part of the family. So hard and sad.
Such a sweet boy. I am so sorry – losing a dog is one of the hardest things we endure in life.
Dear Sharon,
I’m new to your blog coming from the Boston area. My heart breaks for you and your family with the loss of Gibson. Our pets are the deepest soul mates we ever connect with. It is so very difficult saying goodbye. Please except my deepest sympathy and understanding.
Saying Good Bye to our fur babies is one of the most difficult things we have to do in life. They are here for such a short time and make a huge impact on us. By the Grace of God, you were given a wonderful loving gift from God, to love you unconditional on your path where your dear one(s) is watching and waiting for you.
Dear Sharon and family, Gibson has been as much a part of your writing and adventures as your gardens and travels have been for your readers. We’ve come to love and look forward to seeing your pups as part of the Santoni family and in your generous sharing of your life. In return we send love right back to Gibson, Ghetto and you all. x P
My sympathy for your loss. Goodbyes are always heart breaking. We will all miss him with you. RIP sweet Gibson.
Sending love, Patricia
Oh, Sharon, what sad news! Such a hole in the fabric of your family. I am so very sorry for the loss of your, your family’s, and Ghetto’s friend. Always hard to say goodbye to and move onward without a treasured fur-person. Gibson certainly added charm, character, and warmth to MFCH photos. My deep condolences and very best wishes.
I’m so sorry —lost my black lab at 15.5 in November—it’s heart breaking
It’s so hard to loose our best friend,,,,He will always be in your heart
So so sorry for you and the family. Ghetto is really going to be at a loss.
Sharon , My condolences to you and your family for your loss. Gibson, was a big part of your family. As any pet lover knows, they bring us joy, and LOVE with no conditions. Gibson, has crossed the rainbow and is probably frolicking in the woods. Give all your love and hugs to Ghetto, I’m sure he is missing his partner in crime.
I’m so sorry to read that Gibson has gone. I have always enjoyed his inclusion along with Ghetto in so many of your posts. Pets are family members and while you have years of memories may you take time to grieve his loss.
May you rest in peace dear Gibson . I vividly recall meeting him and Ghetto twice , his loveable habit of bringing gifts and plunging in muddy pools G
I do recall his and Ghetto’s running away to the forest because the gate was open and Sharon you were busy welcoming us travellers to your beautiful home . I also remember your telling us why both the dogs had names starting with G as the rules demanded dogs be named this way to identify their year of birth.
Heart felt condolences to Ghetto and all of you . A human is privileged to have unwavering loyalty and love of a furry friend
I am deeply sorry,I know how You feel,my dear!
So Sorry for your loss. I know the heartache of loosing our doggies .But we remember their beautiful and special times we had with them their eyes their personality and that we are gifted to have them in our lives lots of hugs and love
Bea Becker
So sorry for your loss. Majestic Gibson definitely came to the right home. He was so adored and loved. Big hugs to you Sharron.
Max from down under.
Gibson will never be forgotten and always remembered with love: what a wonderful boy! Please accept my strongest consolation and extend a consoling pet to Ghetto. Love, Leslie
Tellement désolée pour vous Sharon et pour Ghetto qui doit se trouver bien seul et déboussolé sans son compagnon de jeux…amicalement, Catherine
GIBSON GOODBYE..SO VERY SORRY
I KNOW THAT FEELING.
THREE MONTHS AGO I LOST MY GREAT LOVE, A WESTY TERRIER “ASLAN”.
16 YEARS OF LOVE!!
I MISS HIM SO MUCH.
NOW HE’S RUNNING SOMEWHERE UNDER A RAINBOW IN THE MEADOWS OF HEAVEN.
You are not alone in your grief. In our way, we came to love Gibson too. Anyone who has lost a pet feels a piece of your heart goes with them, but their spirit stays with you always. Love and hugs to you ❤️
My sincere condolences Sharon for the loss of your beloved friend, the most faithful creature in our life.I went through myself on this huge regret and sadness many years ago ( 2013) and still I just could not recover from that sad memory that she is no more.It is true you must have two dogs and get some consolation that you have another one next to you.I have not had because this dog was the only one and I believe if get another it seems that I replace her,which is not true.
I imagine your beloved dog graveyard will always have flowers according to season.Gibson lived in the heavenly home and went also in heaven.
Love and respect from Susanna.
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Dear Sharon,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Gibson.
Sending our deepest sympathies!
I feel for you! On March 9, I had to say goodbye to my almost-14-year old fur baby. There’s never enough time with them.
So Sorry for your loss 🙁
I have been following your blog since the very beginning in 2011! I found MFCH through Vicky Archer’s blog “My French Life”. Through all the years, I have laughed at the antics of Gibson & his sidekick, Ghetto. Gibson was a joy & I’m sure there is a big hole in your hearts & your home. My deepest condolences to you, your family & Ghetto who I’m sure is missing his Bestie xo
I have been following your blog since the very beginning in 2011! I found MFCH through Vicky Archer’s blog “My French Life”. Through all the years, I have laughed at the antics of Gibson & his sidekick, Ghetto. Gibson was a joy & I’m sure there is a big hole in your hearts & your home. My deepest condolences to you, your family & Ghetto who I’m sure is missing his Bestie xo
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Know that all my dogs welcomed him …. Love to you
Que momento tan triste Sharon!!! Es doloroso perder el afecto que nos dan nuestras mascotas.
Su fidelidad es conmovedora. Nos queda los hermosos momentos vividos .
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss of Gibson. Such sweet dogs hold special places in our hearts forever!
I’m so very sorry for your loss and know that you are heartbroken. I have had three fur babies cross the rainbow bridge and the pain and grief are almost unbearable. I pray that your memories of Gibson will help to fill that hole in your heart. Our pets are family, who love unconditionally, forgive readily, and fiercely protect us, even though they weigh on 10 lbs.! Again, please accept my condolences on your loss of Gibson.
I’m sad from your loss of Gibson. I know the heartbreak too well of losing my precious fur babies. Hugs and prayers.
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Gibson. Our hearts ache with their passing but, know that one day we will be reunited with them! My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Way too hard! I lost my best friend garden buddy kitty of 18 years last year and I miss him more than anything! Such unconditional love! Said some prayers for you and your family, Gibson and Ghetto who I’m sure misses his best buddy very much. Hugs!
Gibson was clearly a legend – those forest escapades and his natural camera charm made him one of a kind. Thank you for sharing his beautiful life with us. Hugs to you and Ghetto.
Losing a beloved pet like World Guesser Gibson is truly a devastating experience, and your words beautifully capture the deep connection you shared with him.
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So sorry to hear of Gibson passing away. I’m very late responding as I’ve been absent a while. We stayed with you in your little guest cottage in 2015 and remember well what a delightful gentleman he was. In fact my husband who is not a dog person was quite besotted with him. Your blog is a wonderful record of his antics and memories for you. Thinking of you all. ❤️