In Memory of Nikki

July 23, 2015

A Collaboration with my Toddler

"Nikki"

by Eve and Ruth Oosterman


Nikki Oosterman 

September 9, 2000 - July 22, 2015

You will be greatly missed. Not only were you my constant companion but my daughter's first best friend, you were so loved. 



The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.
-- Unknown




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4 comments

  1. I'm so sorry for your loss :( but what a beautiful way to remember Nikki.

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    1. Thank you Audrey for your condolences, it is greatly appreciated!

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  2. What wonderful coping tools you are giving her...such valuable methods to love and celebrate life while acknowledging the pain that comes when it is lost. Hearts to you. (I lost my 12 year old black lab on June 18th this year.) Deepest Empathy. <3

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    1. I am so sorry for your loss Sheila! I never understood the pain of losing a loved pet until now and my heart goes out to you.
      When Eve and I paint together we have are able to have very meaningful conversations and I realized that a portrait of Nikki would help me explain to Eve what had happened while preserving Nikki's memory. I have a feeling that it ended up helping me process it even more so than Eve, art is truly therapeutic.
      thank you again for your comment <3

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