A Memorial to Our Abbie Sweetpea Cruise of the Sailing Vessel Musetta

Abigail D. U. Prima Sarantopulos

Born 8/1/95

Died 1/26/07

This was a girl of spirit and courage, strength and love. When she was younger, her baby-sitter, Kelle, dubbed her “a firecracker,” and that she was. She had a strong will, and made her wishes clear; if we didn’t comply, she’d just figure out a way to get what she wanted on her own. She was always leading Lucky and our foster dogs intro trouble, but whenever she was alone with me, she became “Abbie Angel” – the most loving, devoted companion I’ve ever known. Abbie was a real trouper, too. No matter where we traveled with her, she always wanted to go along, and did so without grumble or complaint; she would endure any discomfort or hardship just to be with us.

When her husband, Lucky, left us, she became even closer, settling down into old age, becoming my warm, cuddly side-kick. She loved her walks, and rolling in the grass; she was always on her best behavior, though would sometimes throw a hissy-fit if we left her alone too long. She didn’t like being alone. She was made to give love – and that she did well. Not only to us. For many years in her capacity as a Registered Therapy Dog, Abbie made weekly visits to a rest home in Stockton, bringing cheer to the many residents by giving them kisses, allowing them to run their fingers through her warm triple-layer of fur, and sending love through her expressive, liquid brown eyes. In our stay here at Marina Mazatlan, “Ah-Be-Guy-El” quickly became a favorite of the guards and known amongst the cruisers for her sweet friendliness and mellow, model behavior.

The massive tumor that invaded her spleen was testament to how tough this little girl was – certainly no human could have remained as chipper and loving as she did in a circumstance like this. Even to the end, she wagged her tail at our voices, and nuzzled us in love.

Though she rarely made noise, our boat seems silent; our hearts are hollow. But she will live on in our memories. If she touched your life you were fortunate, and maybe once in awhile you will remember her and smile.

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Abbie lived a wonderful life. She gave as much love as she received, always wagging that tail to let you know that she was ok with you, always able to "touch" someone in her special way where ever she was. And not to forget, the wonderful work she did as a therapy dog, which surely touched many lives in a most positive way. She kept a great spirit and soul despite the loss of her companion. We too were touched by her.

Milton & Eva (Tanner)

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We are saddened to hear she is gone. Abbie was a very sweet girl and very fortunate to have such wonderful owners that appreciated her loving nature and adorable attributes. Michelle and I sincerely enjoyed Abi's visit to our home and her willingness to put up with Oreo's affections. Since owning the Inn and having our own dog, we have come to realize what an amazing, wonderful companion a dog can make in your life. We are truly sorry for your loss. We know these animals become a part of us, and when we lose them, we lose a little part of ourselves. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love,

Todd, Michelle & Lauren (Sarantopulos)

So sorry about Abbie. She was truly a pleasure to have visit, and was always a treat to have around. So much so that Karen is wanting a dog now. We really feel your sorrow on her loss. We so much missed our puppys that I have not wanted to get new companions as I really dont want to go thru that pain again. Love,

Terry and Karen (Teich)

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I am so very sad for you and Jeff. I can appreciate the loss you experienced. Even though my dogs barked all morning at nothing --- I had to go out and give them a hug. That was a wonderful note that you wrote about Abbie. My thoughts are with you.

Bob (Sours)

So sad to read your message. Don’t know the words to write but just know there are tears from my heart for you both, Abbie is in dog heaven with Lucky D.U. Love,

Lili (Cunningham)

We are terribly sorry to hear about the loss of Abbie. We know the heartbreak that you are experiencing. We are so glad that we got to spend time with her; she was such a sweet girl. Abbie was certainly loved deeply by you both, and I don't think there is anything else that a dog wants.

Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Love,

Ann and Michael (McDougal)

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Our hearts go out to you. I was reading the email aloud to Rod and couldn't get through it. My chest aches just thinking about your struggles and loss. I was just talking to you on Weds! I am truly at a loss for words. Please know that we understand this loss and we are sending long warm embraces your way for as long as you need them!!!!!

Margi (Prima-Verbeck)

We are so sorry to hear about Abigail and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Having lost Sable just a few months back we truly understand your loss. We know that Abigail ,like Sable, was more than just a pet and in fact, she was part of our family and we grieve their loss like one of our own children. Not a day goes by that I do not miss Sable greeting me as I come home or anytime I simply walk out the door for a second and then come back in. That smile they seem to have no matter what. I want to thank you both for giving us the opportunity to have Sable enrich our lives so much while we had her. She cannot be replaced and I know Abigail cannot as well. I really am at a loss for words and it is hard for me to even type this message so with that I will say I am sorry to hear this news and our thoughts and prayers are with you in this sad time. Sincerely,

Richard, Terri, Josh and Samantha Dean. (Sable was one of Abbie’s pups)

I am so sorry to hear that you lost one of the true loves of your lives. It is true, that all of us who knew Abbie will remember her and her sweetness. You two have been through "rough seas," of late...I know that you know that life is a pendulum, and will swing back the other direction. The most difficult unknown is how far it will swing before it swings back...You are in my thoughts, and I TRULY hope your sea calms and the crazy, unpredictable pendulum starts back in a more positive direction. My love to you both,

Judy (Prima)

Our 1st memory was of the two "bandana" sea dogs on your newly purchased boat - so comfortable. And the last was Abbie patiently waiting so perfectly outside the restaurant in Berkeley for her beloved "Mom & Dad" to emerge from our lunch. It's such a pitty that dogs don't have the same life span we do, but they teach us all the fruits of the soul while they're here. Know that we empathize with your grief and trust that time will reward you with yet more wonderful memories. With much sympathy and love,

Julie & Rick (Cooley)

My heart goes out to you both!! I don't know what to say...Abbie was so much a lover. Do you realize how much joy and comfort you gave her with all your affection? That's all she needed. With all my love,

Barb (Alcala)

I am so sorry to hear of Abbie's passing. She was such a sweet dog, so patient and loving. There is a song that I wanted to share with you when Lucky was gone, and I am reminded of it now. It is by INXS, is called "Afterglow," and some of the lyrics go like this:

"Here I am lost in the ashes of time, but who owns tomorrow

In between, the longing to hold you again

I'm caught in your shadow, I'm losing control

My mind drifts away, we only have today

Touch me and I will follow in your afterglow

Heal me from all this sorrow, as I let you go

I will find my way, I will sacrifice

Till that blinding day, when I see your eyes

Now I'm living in your afterglow."

It just really reminds me of living each day, not taking anything for granted and that you will see that loved one again someday. We received a card from our vet when Dodger died and it said that our animal friends wait for us at the bottom of the rainbow then when we arrive we go over the rainbow together. I know you both are grieving pretty hard right now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carolyn (Sarantopulos)

May Our Companions Always Be With Us In Spirit.

May Our Companions Always Be With Us In Spirit.