Farewell to Cookie, 2008 – 2023
Updated by Kathryne Taylor on August 6, 2024
I don’t want to tell you this because I don’t want it to be true, but we said goodbye to my beloved Cookie last week. Her smile and spunk lit up my days for over thirteen years and I miss her terribly. Thirteen years! I am the luckiest, and what I would give for more.
Cookie was my sidekick, my frontman, my best friend, my real-life teddy bear, my soul pup. As long as Cookie was there, I was never alone. I can almost feel her snuggled up by my side now. Cookie got me through the darkest of days and brightened the best. She kept me company through countless long days and long nights as we built this website from scratch. She taste tested nearly every recipe, too, whether I wanted her to or not.
In her earlier years, Cookie had a terrifying tendency to shoot out the front door like a rocket, which inspired immense gratitude for every day that we got together. Then she received a terminal cancer diagnosis, lymphoma, and defied the odds by living another two-and-a-half years. I always dreamed of taking care of her in her old age, and that’s what I got to do. Over the past year, she lost her hearing and her health declined, which felt more difficult and complicated than I ever anticipated. She died of old age, and while I’ll always wonder if I made the right decisions every step of the way, I am finding some peace and comfort in knowing that we spent all of her best days together. A dog could not have been more loved.
Cookie came into my life at the perfect moment, when I was fresh out of college and learning to live on my own. She walked with me all the way to marriage and motherhood. She left me exactly where I want to be in my upper thirties, with my loving husband and our baby girl. My heart is so full and so broken at the same time.
Cookie was extraordinary and so was our bond. I spent much of our time together wishing for what I have now, yet I’m feeling so sentimental about our special time together as Cookie and Kate. May this be your gentle reminder to appreciate what you have when you have it.
Thank you for cooking along with us and for finding joy in her antics. I’ll be back soon to share more photos and some of my favorite Cookie memories with you. She was truly the greatest.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is a very hard thing to go through. Cookie was a blessed little dog to have such a loving home and good life with you. ♥️
Super sorry to hear of Cookies passing, it’s clear you were her best human ever! Good advice, everyday is a gift and worth extending your best self forward. Hugs from north of the 49th.
Kate, I am so sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for you and I hope you are able to find comfort in your loved ones in this tough time. Hold those precious memories close in your heart and know that your love made Cookie’s life joyful and fulfilling.
All my love,
–Anne
Kate,
I cried when I read about Cookie. I always thought of her at your feet, picking the pieces up. She has gone to the RAINBOW BRIDGE, and she will be, happy and playing, until the day you come to receive her once again. I am so sorry Kate. We won’t forget Cookie!
Condolences to you, Kate, your husband and daughter.
Blessings,
Donna Y.
Thank you for your kind words, Donna.
I am so sorry to hear this. I can’t imagine how much grief you are experiencing, your love for Cookie was very apparent. My pup is turning twelve this year. She has been with my since I was 25, I am 37 now. She’s been with me during my darkest times, the brightest times, my marriage, etc…I know this day will come for me soon and I try to do my best to savor each day with her. Thank you for the reminder to celebrate the time we have with our special furry sidekicks. Sending much love to you and your family.
Dear Kate,
I am so sorry for your loss of your beloved sidekick and best friend, Cookie.
I’ve been lucky to be a dog mom to several adopted Newfoundland dogs and their passing is always the most heartbreaking part of the relationship.
Wishing you heartfelt sympathy,
Suzanne
Hi Kate,
Thank you for sharing not only your delicious recipes, but your passion. I have made many of your recipes, some many times over.
Im sorry to hear about Cookie. As a dog owner I know the special bond we have with are beloved companions. Being able to spend her days in your loving company gave her a rich life. Im sure she enjoyed every minute!
Thanks again
Lincoln
Kate, I am very sorry to hear about Cookie. Our dogs bring so much joy and happiness into our lives, then break our hearts when they leave. My thoughts are with you.
Deb
Cookie was family. So sorry for your loss.
I am very sorry for your loss. I know how heart broken you must be. I
had to say goodbye to my 10 yr old Golden Retriever and 16yr old
Border Collie. They both brightened my days immensely and I still grieve for them..
I am so sorry for your loss! It’s so tough losing a pet, they really are like your baby. May all her memories bring your comfort. As I write this, I have your recipe of baked ziti with roasted veggies in the oven. Your recipes give me so much inspiration and are always a hit. Thank you!
I completely understand your sadness, what a huge hole in your heart. I lost my “soul” dog in 2021. My deepest sympathies. What was cookie’s favorite of your recipes?
Dear Kate,
So very sorry to hear about Cookie. I’ve been there, more than once, and I know just how you feel. Dogs are so special- they’re always happy to see you, no matter what kind of mood you’re in or what kind of day you had- they make you smile, they make you cry, they make you laugh and they make a mess but we love them all the same. Cookie is over the rainbow bridge and she’s playing and running and jumping- and not sick anymore. I know she lives on in your beautiful memories of her
I’m so sorry for your loss…cookie will always be with you in your heart.
Dear Kate, I am very sorry for your loss. Aside from your wonderful recipes, that Cookie was your sidekick and partner in crime endeared me to your site and what you do immediately. I am a dog lover too, they are my everything -keep me going when life is less than easy. I have 3 right now but have been where you are many times and there are no words I could write to make it easier. We are indeed so blessed but that doesn’t lessen the rawness of the loss. Best wishes, many hugs and if I may offer this – I know it may be much to early today but…. puppies come with heart glue!!
So sorry to hear the news of your beloved Cookie. May she rest in peace, knowing her job here was done.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Cookie sounds very special and you both were lucky to have each other. It’s so hard to lose our fur babies, they are such an integral part of our lives. ❤️
My heart breaks for you. I know it’s very, very hard and sad to lose a beloved dog.
Sending a big hug.
I am so sorry for your loss.
So very sad your family had to bid farewell to Cookie. May happy memories comfort you all during this sad time.
My heart breaks for you as I have been there too. Cookie is bolting thru Heaven’s doors now ❤️
I am sorry for your loss. I know how that is, and I adore each and everyone of my 4 legged friends.
I also love your recipes and blog. I hope you get comfort in the grieving process. How wonderful to know you have a loving husband and baby girl.
Good luck.
So sorry to learn about Cookie’s passing. You gave her a good home and lots of love…(plus having her name on a popular food blog!)
“The days are long, but the years are short…”
RIP Cookie
I am truly sorry for your loss❣️ They are never with us long enough, but forever in your heart.
My condolences, Kate, in your loss of dear Cookie.
What beautiful words you’ve shared, particularly,
“A dog could not have been more loved.” and “My heart is so full and so broken at the same time.”
Those expressions resonate deeply with me, and may also comfort others, who have ever lost a beloved canine – or human being.
In sympathy,
Cathy
Deepest condolences to you and the rest of Cookie’s pack. The loss of our pet family members can really be tough. Your love for her was admirable and I am certain she reflected the same; she stayed with you quite a long time. Thank you for sharing her with us.
How lucky you were to have had each other. So very sorry for your loss, I know it’s sure a big hole left by the little friends when they leave.
Hi Kate, I’ve enjoyed your recipes and blog a lot but never commented before. I just wanted to say what a lovely writer you are and what a touching tribute to your sweet Cookie. My condolences on the loss of Cookie. It’s so wonderful to have them and so very hard when we have to say goodbye. Thanks for sharing and I truly appreciate you.
Kate, So sorry to hear that Cookie has gone over the Rainbow Bridge.
May sweet memories you shared comfort you.
Hugs of Love, Diane
Kate, I am so sorry to hear that Cookie is no longer with you but she will live on because of this awesome website you created together. Thank you for giving her such a great life filled with lots of love and healthy yummy food
There are tears in my eyes for you today, Kate. I know the loss you’re feeling and can only say that although you will always feel it, eventually loss will be accompanied and overcome by warm and wonderful memories of Cookie. How lucky you are to have had her through all your “growing up” years as an adult.
Oh Kate, I am so sorry to hear this news. Losing a beloved pet is its own kind of excruciating heart break. Your beautiful tribute is a testament to the special relationship you shared with Cookie – a true blessing to each other. And it is certain Cookie went straight to Dog Heaven with a grateful heart for the love and care you gave her. xo
I am so sorry for your loss. Here is a poem that aids me- I hope it helps you and your family as your grieve Cookie.
I had my own notion of grief, I thought it was a sad time that followed the death of someone you love. And you had to push through it to get to the other side. But I am learning there is no other side. There is no pushing through. But rather there is – Absorption – Adjustment – Acceptance. And grief is not something that you complete. But rather you endure. Grief is not a task to finish and move on, but an element of yourself – An alteration of your being. A new way of seeing. A new definition of self – GWEN FLOWERS
Oh, no, I’m so very sorry :'( I always enjoyed seeing Cookie’s picture; she absolutely DID smile! She was a very special girl, thank you for sharing your precious memories. Sending hugs.
You wrote a lovely obit for Cookie.. I know the deep pain of such a loss. I have had a few most wonderful companions leave me at the end of their life. It’s rough and heartbreaking to lose your best buddy. From the bottom of my heart I send support of understanding and sympathy. HUGS!
Oh Kate,
Thank-you for sharing all the Cookie times with us. Cookie is one of the major reasons I got the cookbook:) and started cooking with you both.
I send my loving thoughts to you and Cookie.
She will live on in our memories!
Deepest Blessings!
Dee
I’m so sorry to hear about Cookie. Blessings for sharing her with us and peace to you as you grieve her passing
Kate! I loved your sidekick Cookie! Her photos in your cookbook are outrageous and hysterical. It was as if she was a pal to all of your followers. We will remember her so fondly, and share with you compassionate understanding of what it means to say goodbye to such a faithful devoted friend. Remember that she loved every single day with you; you gave her the best life a dog could ever have. Be well. Valerie
Just want to send my condolences for the end of Cookie’s earthly journey and celebrate the bond you had. I also want to say I have made numerous of your recipes but favorites include tortilla soup, kale salad and corn chowder. Again, my condolences.
Your sentiments reflect a dog loved and understood. My dog was always with me when I cooked, my little foodie. Hopefully Cookie can still be present when you cook and infuse your food with his good spirit. So sorry for his passing but I appreciate dog moms who are by their side to ease them through the process. A final gift of love.
So very sorry for your loss, Kate. I know what you are going through, and heartbreaking doesn’t even begin to describe it. Sounds like Cookie lived the absolute best life a dog could ever live! Hang in there <3
Kate, I feel your pain. Thank you for sharing her story with us.
I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet Cookie. It is so difficult to loose our fur kids, because they are not just a dog, they are a valued and loved me Uber of the family.
Hold your memories and times together close and may they offer you comfort as you navigate without her by your side.
Kate, I’m so sorry to learn of Cookie’s passing. She was a special girl; thank you for sharing her with all of us. ❤️
May her memory be a blessing.
Emily
Sending huge hugs to you over the loss of your sweet Cookie. Having had numerous dogs (and cats) over the years, I understand that emptiness you feel without her physical presence. What a team you have been. I’ve always loved the name “Cookie and Kate.” It’s so “euphonious,” as my dear grandma used to say.
Please know that I love your recipes and how you create them to be more healthy. I am an RN who retired from a university nutrition department. I often think of how my dietitian friends would approve of your recipes. :) I am not a vegetarian but I do eat lots of vegetarian meals and have vegetarian family members. So high five and many thanks for all that you do!
I am so sorry for loss! As a dog owner myself I know what a special place they hold in our lives as part of the family. You’ll have your memories to carry on ❤️ I will miss Cookie too
I am so sorry to hear about Cookie. I’ve enjoyed reading about her and your collaboration over the years. May your memories of Cookie bring you joy each day.
I am so so so sorry to hear about the passing of sweet Cookie. I wish I could send you a hug and I wish dogs could live forever. They are the best. I’m so happy you got to spend 13 wonderful years with her. Thinking of you and wishing you all the best.
Oh Kate, I’m so sad to hear of Cookie’s passing. From experience, I know it’s so hard to loose a furry family member. Nose boops to you and yours while you take this in. You’ll see and hear her everywhere. Take comfort knowing Cookie had the best life, by your side, taste-testing all your amazing recipes. Stay well, and don’t push yourself to keep posting while you grieve. It takes time. We can wait for April recipes!
DO share more pictures of Cookie in the kitchen! She was your “sous chef,” the best there ever was!
Maureen (a long-time lurker, and dog lover). ❤️
I am so, so sorry. My almost-15 cattle dog Sammy died this past November. I miss him like crazy and know how it hurts.