saying goodbye to clover

just last week, luca was asked what made him happiest in the whole wide world.  

"clover, my hamster," he answered without delay.

this sweet black bear hamster has been luca's favorite of favorites for the past two years. clover was his happy place and a source of constant comfort.  it was recommended that a pet might be therapeutic for autism and anxiety. boy, was that right. clover was an important part of our daily life and our family functioning. and yesterday we had to say goodbye.

 

i would never have guessed it would be so sad! and that drawing above just brings tears to my eyes. this little rodent will always hold such a special place in our memory. he was truly a gift of peace in a tumultuous time.

how good is the provision of opportunities to help our children walk through healthy grief in the small stuff! because the big is inevitable. i am grateful for a safe home. and knowing love that is worth sadness.

we are oh so thankful for clover.

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fyi: when i student taught in college, one of the lesson plans i wrote for my 4yo class was on dealing with the death of a pet.  i used the book i'll always love you by hans wilhelm and it was such a touching story to revisit this week with my own kiddos.   
xoxo, annalea

meet clover

 

this is one happy kiddo.

we surprised luca on saturday afternoon.  an early birthday present in form of a hamster cage.  a few hours later he hand picked this adorable baby black bear hamster at our local pet store.  he has been named clover, which is just right, considering luca will turn seven on st. patrick's day.

we are pretty smitten.  the twitchy nose is a particular favorite.  and he has only escaped once so far!
(from now on, we will triple check that the doors are latched.)