So this may be a little out there, but I believe in ghosts. Or at least the idea that deceased loved ones come back to visit. Several times in my life I have felt the presence of ghosts when alone. The last time occurred shortly after we returned to San Diego for the winter in 2021. On my early morning run, I felt Anna with me.
When we lived in Pacific Beach full time, Anna and Karlie ran with me once a week in Bird Rock. As I ran over familiar ground last November, I could feel Anna with me. At the time I didn’t know why she was there. I took the opportunity to ask her to look out for Karlie since her hind end weakness had progressed and I didn’t know how much longer she would be with us.
Anna stayed with me for most of the run and I found it comforting. I talked to her about Karlie. I asked her to watch out for her little sister, just as she had when she was alive. What I didn’t realize at the time, but truly believe, is that Anna was there to tell me Karlie’s time was limited. We said good bye to Karlie less than three months later. I think Anna wanted me to know she would be there to lead Karlie across the rainbow bridge. I have no doubt she did just that.
Anna and Karlie were sisters and best friends for nearly 12 years. They were inseparable, often sleeping curled up next to each other. I have countless pictures of them laying on the ground or bed a few inches apart. They were together for nearly 12 years; from the time we adopted Karlie at 4 months until we said goodbye to Anna when Karlie was nearly 12. Anna was Karlie’s protector, always making sure that Karlie was okay.
I am sure on Karlie’s last day, Anna was waiting to guide her across the rainbow bridge. And I know that reunion was amazing. The only thing that will compare is when I am reunited with both of them. Until then I know they are chasing each other, playing with tennis balls, hiking in the woods, running at the beach, and kayaking on the water. And it brings a huge smile to my face to know they are happy and together.
