Good-bye, Linda

Today's blog is dedicated to my friend, Linda (nlindabrit). I received the terrible news this morning that after a long battle with several health issues, she passed away peacefully in hospital.

My heart is broken. Linda was an inspiration to me. Always kind and gracious, she never failed to give words of encouragement to others. Critter Alley readers will remember her comments after nearly every blog post. She always took time to reach out to others. And her talent at writing was tremendous, though she only recently began to send her work out on a competitive basis.

Just three days ago on her own blog, she posted her excitement over winning first place in a writing contest. Linda was a superb writer who particularly enjoyed writing western stories, frequently related to the Big Valley television series. I'm so glad she received this news in time to know that even to impartial judges, her work was second to none.

In addition to being a caring person always ready to give a nudge of support to people, she loved critters. Linda and her husband, Tom, adopted several rescued Dalmatians. She also sponsored rescued draft horses, and from time to time posted their pictures with pride.

It's so strange how friendships develop over cyberspace. We share thoughts, concerns, and dreams, and come to know each other better than many people we see on a daily basis. Though I never met Linda in person, I counted her among my dearest friends.

Linda, the world will be a sadder and more lonely place without you. My heart goes out to Tom, her beloved husband, and Floyd, their most recent rescued Dal.

I can hardly believe that I won't see another post from nlindabrit.

God bless you, Linda. I will love you and miss you forever.