The Art of Racing in the Rain…

A few years back, my friend Fredda brought me a book and insisted I read it.  The book is titled “The Art of Racing in the Rain,” and for anyone who loves animals, it is a must read.  When Mitch and I said goodbye to Blaze in late December, I was comforted knowing that he would be riding, or chasing Harleys eternally.  He lived to go walking and nothing trumped hearing a bike, in particular the hum of the Harley engine, and thanks to the book, I knew what he would find when he crossed over.

Yesterday the world lost Shirley Temple, and it also lost my friend, Fredda Weiss.  Anyone who knew her learned so much through her courage with the battles she fought, with class, dignity and even humor.  She called her hospital room in Miami, her suite and loved her view of the Biscayne Bay.

One of the hard parts of working with “seniors” is that I sometimes have to say good-bye to them.  The irony, here, is that Fredda was always my youngest SilverSneaker student, joining our class when she was only in her 50s.  We struck a quick friendship from the first time I met her in class, but everyone else adored her as well.  Her favorite CD at class was a compilation of Cher songs and I will continue to play it often in her memory and in her honor.  When we “walk in Memphis,” I know her soul will be walking, singing and dancing with us.

Rest in Peace, Freddastair.  I sign off this morning with a quote from the book (and encourage all dog owner to read it!)

“He died that day because his body had served its purpose. His soul had done what it came to do, learned what it came to learn, and then was free to leave.”
―     Garth Stein,     The Art of Racing in the Rain

Though you will be so missed by your family and friends, you are finally free, Fredda.  Much love always……………