Cassie Bustamante

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RIP Charlie Brown Bustamante

December 1, 2013 by Cassie 69 Comments

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I don’t normally post on Sunday, but as I sit here drinking my coffee, listening to the kids play and buzz about the first day of December excitement, I contemplate my blog posts for the week.  Some are already planned and scheduled, of course.  But I felt like I could not head into my post tomorrow without telling you about our family’s loss last Friday morning.

Thursday morning as we prepared to head to my parents house for Thanksgiving, Chris and I exchanged knowing looks.  We knew that Charlie was struggling, and we knew that we would make it through the day and take him to the vet the next morning…. his time had come.  He had no more joy, and could barely stand up.  We gave him lots of petting and loving, and headed off for Thanksgiving.  When it came time for everyone to say what they were thankful for, I announced my thankfulness for my family and friends, the wonderful food in front of us, and the years we had with Charlie.
After dinner, Chris had to go to work, so the kids and I returned home to the dogs.  When we returned I carried Charlie outside to go to the bathroom, but he could not stand, and just tipped over.  I brought him inside, and he immediately had an accident.  I cleaned it up and laid Charlie on his bed, got the kids set up with a Christmas movie.  As we sat down, I heard Charlie get up.  Though he could barely walk, he was restless.  He eventually found the Mexican blanket I had under our dining room tree, and laid there, though still breathing hard and visibly uncomfortable.
Once I put the kids to bed, I went to Charlie.  I knew that tomorrow would be it, so I picked him up and just held him and cried and told him how much I loved him. I laid him back on his bed, and waited for him to lay his head down, then went up to bed myself.
Friday morning, we woke to see him laying on the wood floor in the dining room, breathing heavily.  Sawyer was headed to a friend’s at 8:30, so Chris and I planned to go to the vet after he was picked up. Emmy wanted to come with us.  We were all huddled in the dining room, after getting Sawyer ready to go.  I told the kids to pet him and love him and say goodbye.  We all cried, Jake paced uncertainly around Charlie.  At 8:25, Charlie took his last breath in our home surrounded by his brother and his family.  I miss him terribly, but I know what a blessing he was to our family, and I am so thankful that he went at home with all of us here.  We laid him to rest in his favorite spot in the backyard, under the trees, where he would howl at the squirrels.  I am sure he is up in heaven now, chasing squirrels and howling away.

RIP Charlie Brown Bustamante
May 12, 2000-November 29, 2013

We miss him so much, but Sawyer said it best when he said his goodbyes….

“I love you and I will never forget you, Charlie.  You will always be in my heart.”
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Comments

  1. Katie @ Wildwood Creek says

    December 1, 2013 at 2:16 pm

    Oh, Cassie, I’m so sorry for your loss of Charlie Brown. Our pets are such a blessing and leave us too soon. Looking at that sweet face you can see he lived in a house of love.

    Reply
  2. Jenny says

    December 1, 2013 at 2:16 pm

    So sad to hear this Cassie. All teared up just reading about it. But so thankful that he passed at home – what a blessing that is for all of you. He had a long, lovely life with your family, and I think the grief of losing a pet is the price we pay for the unconditional love they give us while they’re in our care.

    Hugs to you all.

    Reply
  3. Anne says

    December 1, 2013 at 3:11 pm

    I`m so sorry Cassie. I`m crying for you as I read this. Charlie was a big part of Primitive & Proper. I felt like he was the dog next store. Blessing to your family. Hugs
    Anne Dees and Grayce

    Reply
  4. [email protected] says

    December 1, 2013 at 3:27 pm

    What a sweet tribute. Cassie I truly can’t explain how sad I am for your loss, but at the same time know that he is no longer suffering. Big hugs!!

    Reply
  5. crafternoonnap says

    December 1, 2013 at 3:40 pm

    Oh my, the tears are just welling up. I’m so sorry for your loss. You can tell from the photos how loved and cared for he was, and I know he loved you all so much in return. 13 years is long in the land of the dog, and I’m glad you had so much time with him.

    Reply
  6. Down to Earth Style says

    December 1, 2013 at 3:47 pm

    Poor baby…I am so sorry, Cassie. Losing a pet is a tough thing and I hope you find piece with your loss. My Sadie died a year ago and I miss her like crazy still. But we talk about her and laugh at her silly personality and good times. So in a sense – she lives on in our hearts and so will your Charlie Brown B. xoxoxo

    Reply
  7. Julie @ followyourheartwoodworking says

    December 1, 2013 at 3:48 pm

    So difficult to lose a beloved dog, they are such a part of our lives. He was fortunate to have such a loving home with your family, not all dogs get the love they deserve.

    Reply
  8. Oxido says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:04 pm

    Cassie, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m bawling my eyes out over here:( Thinking about you and your family.

    Reply
  9. Renee says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:17 pm

    Oh I am so sorry. I am so glad I had the privilege of meeting sweet Charlie. I hope he has lots of squirrels to chase in heaven. I’m crying right now for you guys.

    Reply
  10. Gretchen says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:35 pm

    I’m so sorry Cassie….and so glad you guys and Charlie got to have each other for so long. It sounds like he was a sweet, sweet boy.

    Reply
  11. Amanda M. says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:47 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss; what a sweet, darling pup he was.

    Reply
  12. Carrie @ lovely etc. says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:48 pm

    I am so sorry Cassie.

    Reply
  13. Angela Santaniello says

    December 1, 2013 at 4:49 pm

    I’ve been thinking about you all weekend. Huge (((hugs))) to you.

    Angela @ Number Fifty-Three

    Reply
  14. Lisa @ Turning Tables says

    December 1, 2013 at 5:26 pm

    As I have said many times already (to you and in my head) I am so sorry for your loss. Your pups are so lucky to be a part of your family xoxoxoxo love you. Big hugs!!

    Reply
  15. DogsMom says

    December 1, 2013 at 5:33 pm

    A touching post and beautiful tribute to a very loved pup.
    Hugs and prayers for Charlie Brown and for your family. You will never forget him.
    He will be watching over you.

    Reply
  16. Patty Day @Pattys Epiphanies says

    December 1, 2013 at 5:45 pm

    Cassie I am so sorry to hear about Charlie. It’s so hard to loose a f pet….they are FAMILY!
    It was a blessing he went at home with all of you sharing your love with him.

    Reply
  17. Shanna Gilbert says

    December 1, 2013 at 5:56 pm

    Cassie I am so sorry for your loss. We are so blessed for the time God has given us with these amazing beings. They make our lives so rich and it is so hard when they are gone. You gave him a wonderful home and he was so lucky to have been chosen by you. I have three fur babies of my own and I have no idea how I will cope when something happens to them. You and your family are in my prayers.

    Reply
  18. Between Blue and Yellow says

    December 1, 2013 at 5:59 pm

    Sorry about your loss, glad he was able to go at home around all the people who love him, and not in some vet’s office.
    Hope you all cope with the loss as best you can.

    Reply
  19. Deanne Langford says

    December 1, 2013 at 9:40 pm

    so sad to lose a family pet after they have been with you such a long time, thinking of you at this sad time.

    Reply
  20. Vintage Prairie Style says

    December 1, 2013 at 9:48 pm

    I feel so sad for you and your family Cassie. It’s so tough to loose a pet. I am so glad for all of you that he went surrounded by his people, in his own home.

    Reply
  21. Robin @ Happily Home, After says

    December 1, 2013 at 9:58 pm

    Such a heartfelt, sweet, and vulnerable moment from your family’s life you’ve shared with us Cassie. I know that Charlie Brown loves you all as dearly as you love him and as sad as the moment was it was on his terms with his family by his side. I’m so sorry for the loss and sadness you and your family are experiencing.

    Reply
  22. Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. says

    December 2, 2013 at 12:05 am

    Oh those big brown eyes! So sorry for your loss Cassie. Pets bring such joy to the lives of the families that love them!

    Reply
  23. [email protected] of a craigslist junkie says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:30 am

    So sorry Cassie. Your post brought me to tears because I know how hard it is to lose a furry member of the family. Your son is right — he’ll always be in your hearts.

    Reply
  24. GirlRural.com says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:35 am

    I cried reading this. Losing a pet, especially at the holidays, is so hard! He had a good, long life surrounded my family. What more could a dog ask for.

    Reply
  25. Rachel says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:38 am

    Oh, I’m so sorry! It sounds like he was very loved and had a happy life. Lots of love to you and the kids!

    Reply
  26. [email protected] says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:21 am

    I am so sorry for your loss!

    Reply
  27. Rita says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:29 am

    And Again I’m crying for your loss. You know I think about how I grew up horribly allergic to dogs and somehow when Santa brought our first dog into our lives, I never sneezed once. It was funny how he was so “meant to be” in our lives. And how he changed us from that moment on. Charlie won’t just be remembered by you guys but us blog friends as well.

    Reply
  28. Carrie says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:44 am

    I have been there and know how hard it is to go through losing four legged family members…Saying prayers for your family.

    Reply
  29. RPK Interiors says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:59 am

    Oh dear Cassie, so sorry for this time of sadness for you and your family. Hugs and well wishes for all of you…
    Robin

    Reply
  30. Danielle says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:28 am

    Oh, Cassie, I’m so sorry! So very sorry to hear. I have tears in my eyes writing this. I know how hard it is to lose a family pet. Sending you lots of hugs. x

    Reply
  31. Lisa @ Shine Your Light says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:30 am

    Cassie, I hope your hearts all are starting to heal, a little bit every day. How lucky to have had Charlie as part of your family for so many years!

    Reply
  32. circadee.com says

    December 2, 2013 at 4:09 am

    Following Charlie’s status over the past few months has had me filled up. I am so sorry to hear this news. Pets are certainly family too. My thoughts are with you, Cassie.

    Reply
  33. Rachel H says

    December 2, 2013 at 4:15 am

    I am so sorry for your loss, Cassie. It truly is like losing a family member. I am so glad you were all able to be with him during his final moments here on earth. Love to you all!

    Reply
  34. Allison says

    December 2, 2013 at 4:19 am

    I’ve been thinking about sweet Charlie and your family today, amd of course Jake, too. Charlie was one very loved dog and he lived his life to the fullest with a wonderful loving and fun family. He was blessed as were all of you. I know losing a pet is difficult. They are members of our families and take a little piece of our heart when they pass. I am so glad he passed away at home around his family. Hugs to you.

    Reply
  35. Cindy Weston says

    December 2, 2013 at 4:26 am

    Cassie, I read your blog every day that you post (which is most days) and I don’t think I have ever replied to your posts before, but this one hits home. I have a 19 yr old cat who doesn’t move like she used to but is never sick. One day soon I will have to face her mortality and I pray I am as strong as you and your family were. I’m sorry for your loss and thankful he went with his family around him. What a joy it must have been to be Charlie Brown Bustamante.
    My prayers to you and your family,
    Cindy

    Reply
  36. Kelly says

    December 2, 2013 at 4:33 am

    This just breaks my heart. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you and the kids and Charlie ever since I heard. It’s been several months now since we lost Marley and it’s still raw and hard. Charlie was such a lucky guy to have you and your family! Thinking of you guys.

    Reply
  37. Fiona, LilyfieldLife says

    December 2, 2013 at 8:24 am

    sending lots of love to you all especially the kids

    Reply
  38. Julia Konya says

    December 2, 2013 at 12:17 pm

    I’m so glad that you didn’t have to take him to the vet too. That’s so much better. He didn’t have to be scared. This made me sob. I love all the photos of him.
    Sending lots of hugs!

    Reply
  39. Allison @ The Golden Sycamore says

    December 2, 2013 at 12:29 pm

    Oh man, I totally cried through your whole post! It’s so hard to lose a pet. They become such a huge part of your family. So sorry for your loss, Cassie.

    Reply
  40. Sabrina says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:12 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss Cassie. Losing a pet is so heartbreaking… because they really are a part of the of the family.

    Reply
  41. Rachel Blanchard says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:28 pm

    I’m so sorry, I cannot imagine how hard it is for you and your family. I’m bawling here at work just thinking that there will be a time when we lose our sweet puppy… What a blessing they are!

    Reply
  42. [email protected] says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:35 pm

    I am so sorry my friend! I am tearing up reading this and he’s not even my pet 🙁 RIP Charlie. He is in heaven happy and healthy. xo Kristin

    Reply
  43. Amy ~ "A Perfect Tin" says

    December 2, 2013 at 1:47 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss 🙁 As difficult as it is, at least he went peacefully at home.

    Reply
  44. baileysathome says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:14 pm

    That totally made me cry, as my puppy is laying next to me. It is so hard to lose a furry friend, and they are not just animals, they really are family. So sorry for your loss, I hope you can take comfort in all the memories and pictures and love you shared with Charlie. It is really heartbreaking…

    Reply
  45. pam {simple details} says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:26 pm

    Oh Cassie, I’m so sorry. I know you’re all heartbroken, you were fortunate to have such a wonderful pet and Charlie couldn’t have found a more loving home.

    Reply
  46. Karah @ thespacebetweenblog says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:30 pm

    RIP Charlie Brown!! :*(

    Reply
  47. 17 Perth says

    December 2, 2013 at 2:37 pm

    Oh cassie. you know my heart for dogs. They are truly a part of the family and I am so so sorry. Sweet little charlie. Again–I am so sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  48. Kelly @ A Swell Place to Dwell says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:05 pm

    Cassie, I really should have read this yesterday instead of today at work, since now I am crying. I am so sorry for your loss. It makes me happy though that you were able to lay him to rest in your yard though so his spirit will always be with your family.

    Reply
  49. Hetty says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:15 pm

    Oh Cassie, so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful dog he was. Sending you my love.

    Reply
  50. Jesse @ Scout & Nimble says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:19 pm

    Oh Cassie…again I am so so sorry! This makes my heart so sad for you all. I know these next few weeks will be so tough and know I will be sending you so much love. Love you Cassie.

    Reply
  51. MaryB says

    December 2, 2013 at 3:45 pm

    I’m so sorry to read about your loss – dogs are such special members of the family! I love the pictures – he was so adorable & had a sweet face.

    Reply
  52. Mekenzie @ interiorsbykenz.com says

    December 2, 2013 at 5:19 pm

    So very very heartbreaking. I can’t even imagine the pain. I’m sending all my love your way.

    Reply
  53. Elle Sommers says

    December 2, 2013 at 7:12 pm

    I’m so very sorry for your (and your family’s loss) of your dear Charlie. He had a wonderful life with you and he was much loved friend. I know how much it hurts and I’m so sad for you.

    Kind regards,
    Lisa Sommers

    Reply
  54. Lets just build a house! says

    December 2, 2013 at 7:51 pm

    i cried a little reading this. reminds me of when we lost our precious Ollie the same way. i couldnt be there to snuggle her but both of my parents were and she was surrounded by love. im sure charlie knew you loved him and he is in puppy heaven now having a blast!!

    Reply
  55. Heidi @ Decor & More says

    December 2, 2013 at 8:21 pm

    Oh, God blessed you with those final hours together! Charlie was well-loved and so were you. Peace and prayers, my friend.
    xo Heidi

    Reply
  56. Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door says

    December 3, 2013 at 12:55 am

    Oh Cassie I am so very sorry for all of you. I know how much you are all hurting but I’m so glad that Charlie was able to go at home with all of you there with him. What a sweet dog. He had a wonderful life. Hugs!

    Reply
  57. [email protected] says

    December 3, 2013 at 1:23 am

    Oh! Cassie, I’m so sorry for your loss, I know how hard it is to say goodbye to them 🙁 I’m sure he’s in heaven too and that he was very happy with your family (Love all the beautiful pictures too) I’m thinking of you and sending you many hugs my friend

    Reply
  58. Kim @ NewlyWoodwards says

    December 3, 2013 at 1:26 am

    I read this post yesterday on my phone but couldn’t comment. You had me in tears. I cannot imagine how hard this is for you and your family. Pets become a part of the family and that bond is so strong. Thinking of you all!

    Reply
  59. Erin says

    December 3, 2013 at 1:44 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss. His beautiful soul shows so clearly in his eyes in your photos and I know he must have felt so loved.

    Reply
  60. Storywood Designs says

    December 3, 2013 at 1:49 am

    What a beautiful memorial you wrote for Charlie, Cassie. You and your family’s love for him shines through your story of his time with you. I’m so sorry for you loss…

    Reply
  61. Bliss says

    December 3, 2013 at 3:38 am

    : (

    Reply
  62. Ali Richardson says

    December 3, 2013 at 5:41 am

    Love you friend! sorry it took me so long to read this post. You know how I fell already, but I am just so sorry. He was such a sweet addition to your family and I know he will forever be missed. You got some great pictures of him over the years and I’m happy to have the memory of him laying down near “my couch” when I came to visit. I love you!!

    Reply
  63. Lindsay says

    December 3, 2013 at 9:16 pm

    Oh Cassie. I just cried and cried reading this post. I knew about what had happened to Charlie from Facebook, but am just now catching up on the posts I’ve been missing lately. Before I got our Gracie, I was not really a dog person and understood that people were sad when something happened to their pet, but didn’t really get it. Now, my heart is breaking for you and your family. I know that it really is like losing a member of the family and I am sending lots of thoughts and love your way.

    Reply
  64. Gail Wilson says

    December 4, 2013 at 3:40 am

    I am so sorry for your loss of your beloved Charlie Brown Cassie. I know your family will miss him so much, but he is in a better place. It’s always so difficult to say goodbye. As I read your post, my Louie sits beside me scratching himself everywhere. I know I love him too much… I tell him so all the time. How can they steal so much of our hearts?
    Thinking of your entire family as your hearts ache.
    gail

    Reply
  65. Amber Wills says

    December 4, 2013 at 8:05 pm

    I’m crying and my heart just aches for y’all. I’m so glad he passed surrounded by all of you. He knew he was loved and is now in heaven with all the energy he had when he was a pup.

    Reply
  66. Courtney says

    December 5, 2013 at 9:25 am

    Oh, such a beautiful post Cassie! Hugs from me to you xx

    Reply
  67. Erin says

    December 5, 2013 at 6:19 pm

    Oh Cassie this makes me cry–I’m so sorry. 🙁 He was lucky to have been so loved!

    Reply

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Hi, I’m Cassie!

I believe that you don't have to spend a lot of money to live a beautiful life and be your best self.  Here you will find budget friendly ideas to live happily, healthily, sustainably, and most importantly authentically.  We all get one chance at this life, and this ordinary girl plans to make hers extraordinary. How about you? Read more...
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Mother, wife, shop owner, blogger, writer, incurable diy-er, furniture painter, coffee and wine drinker, friend. Seeking happiness and passing it on. Read More…

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