From Shelley and Gary

Dear Val:  It's that time of year again when I think of you 200 times a day instead of the usual hundred.  Gary and I are doing fine now and I know you have helped us along the way.  Gary is where you wanted him to be and we are forever grateful for all you have done for us. All your cotons are in loving homes too.  I would like to say you would be surprised about the behaviour of people you thought were your friends but I know you already know. Thank you for showing me daily you are still with us and please know I feel truly blessed to have been your best friend. ~ Shelley and Gary

From Shelley

It has been over a year since Valerie left my home and had her accident.  Today would have been her 60th birthday.  We were friends for many years and I miss her more every day.  It is very sad for her brother Gary to not see her any more after all the things she did for him and he has a hard time understanding what has happened.  She was so excited to be on "Pick a Puppy" that night and we were all excited for her.  When we left our home to go out for Halloween, she wanted to stay and watch the show again.  When we got home she was already gone.  When she didnt call me or answer her phone we went to look for her and came upon the accident.  She died alone that night while all her dogs were waiting for her at the house.  It has been a very trying year missing Valerie and I was very lucky to have had her for a friend.  All her dogs have gone to their forever homes except for one little puppy girl born one year ago today on Vals birthday.  Her name is Valerie.  Rest in Peace Valerie and please know I am doing my best to deal with everything and that Gary will be forever loved by us.  Thank you for being my friend.  ---- Shelley

♥Valerie Ford of Cotonnelle♥

The first time I met Valerie Ford, she looked like this :)

Here she is in NJ at the AACDT National Specialty with Kazaam.  She was so proud to say, "I AM", when I asked who the lucky owner of Kazaam was.  I fell in love with Kazzam, and of course Valerie too. Who wouldn't be drawn to her great sense of humor and her smile?   She would come all the way to the USA to support us.  Our new club.  She was an amazing lady.

Last evening, October 31, 2011, Valerie left this earth in a tragic car accident.  Valerie Ford gave more than anyone I know to the Coton Community and this is truly a great loss.  My heart is so very heavy, as I know I will miss my friend dearly.  My heart breaks for her dogs that she loved so much.  What will they do without their Mommy?

Valerie will forever be in my heart and soul, and I cherish Kazaam because he is a little part of her..something that lives. Every time I look at him... I will remember Valerie.  I miss you already.  Love you.  

Lynn

♥May you rest in peace♥