PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are grey. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you. Please don’t take my sunshine away.” 🧡🧡
I sang that tune to Penny so many times over the last 12 years…not only because she was my sunshine, but because she always responded to my voice. Truthfully, I talked to her more than any human except for Mom. Twelve years ago this week, I adopted Penny from a rescue shelter in Maryland. I actually took another Aussie mix home with me first; but within 24 hours, I knew she couldn’t co-exist with my cats. Penny (who they were calling ‘Angelica’) had only been at the shelter for a month; she had heartworm and was still going through treatment. But she was sweet and happy and enthusiastic and ready to go!
We were inseparable from the beginning. Everywhere I went, other than work or Sunday church, Penny went with me. When I adopted her, I lived in a townhouse in the Connecticut woods. We walked and climbed and explored and hiked all over the area. She had a TON of energy, so she kept me moving. From long trail runs to woodsy hikes to wide-open parks to road trips and even the weekly grocery shopping, she couldn’t wait for our next adventure. She loved being in the car and didn’t mind waiting for me to finish the errands. She always knew I would find a place for her to jump out and zoom around.
Boy, could she run! Penny would stretch out full speed to chase a ball or neighborhood squirrels or ME! When she wasn’t looking, I would sneak behind a soccer goal or softball dugout or the car, and we raced around and around until she caught me. She was always barking, and I was always laughing out loud. No doubt people thought we were crazy, ha.
Penny ADORED the sand and the snow! The happiest moments in her life came during beach getaways and snowstorms. Her favorite activity was to stop, drop and ROLL over and back multiple times. When she scrambled upright, she would promptly plunge her face into the sand or snow. When she raised her head, it was piled up on her nose and stuck to her face. After every beach trip, it took me weeks to get all the sand out of her coat, but it was worth the effort for her joy.🤩
It didn’t matter how brutal the cold or bitter the winds; Pen still wanted her walks. Our second winter in New Jersey, we had several feet of snow dumped on us in February. It didn’t melt for weeks because of the cold. I will never forget our chilliest dog walk of all time: in -27 degree wind chills! Of course, Pen was trotting around like it was the middle of spring. The neighbors called me “last man standing” since nobody else would brave those temps. The colder and snowier, the better for my crazy canine. I hadn’t seen Pen drop and roll in the snow or the grass (another favorite pastime) in more than a year…until last month. She did both, and she was in her element. I couldn’t help but giggle at her, like always.
Since Pen was always game for adventure, we traversed the country and traveled up and down the eastern seaboard for 12 years. Vacations, long weekends, work trips and holidays–she always had the whole back seat along with her blankets and supplies. Four round trips to Houston (3400 miles); countless jaunts to the DC area; Richmond; Baltimore; Atlanta more than once; Boston, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and the rest of New England; northeast Ohio; western New York; a pair of vacations in North Carolina and three to South Carolina. I loved going places with my girl! About four years ago, I bought a ramp to help her in and out of the car. After a few days of refusing to go anywhere near it, she decided to be brave and follow where her mom led her.
I am SO thankful I didn’t know my life and career would take a drastic turn at the end of 2012. Just nine months after I adopted Penny, we left Connecticut and moved to the New York City metro when I accepted the CBS Sports Radio gig. If I had any clue about the upheaval and change and chaos awaiting us, I would have delayed adding a dog to the family. But God knew I needed her, so His timing was perfect.❤️
That was far from His only gift through my incredible dog. Penny walked with me through the toughest 10 years of my life: new job, new city, new church, four different moves, upside down schedule, Mom’s relocation to Texas, holidays away from family, solo vacations, solo pandemic, the loss of Grammy Helen, the death of several close friends and an 18-year-old cat (Penny’s BFF), and the kind of loneliness that felt like a heavy weight. She made it a little easier.
Calm, sweet, sensitive, funny, loyal and happy–every time I opened the door to our house or apartment, her enthusiastic greetings and the hugs (she tolerated them) gave me perspective and joy. The load was always lighter with Penny. Taking care of her and the rest of the zoo gave me purpose and prevented me from focusing too much on myself. She rarely left me alone. She was almost always hot on my heels, watching and paying attention, especially after she lost her hearing. Instead of listening, that smarty-pants learned my hand signals.
With her “dogged” commitment and determination, she would have followed me anywhere. But the last six months, it became tougher and more challenging for my sweet girl. Because she would NEVER give up or stop trying, I had to make the painful decision to say good-bye. As much as I cried, I will always cherish the final week with her. Knowing what was coming, I showered her with extra love and affection and care and prayed earnestly she could hear me talking to her until the last seconds.
Penny ran my life and my schedule for 12 years. Since I found her right before I moved to New Jersey, I don’t know a routine here without her. I am so thankful she is no longer struggling, but this hole in my heart may never be filled. Honestly, I’m not sure I want to fill it. Pen was special and unique, the perfect puppy for me. God hand-picked her for me because He knew exactly what I needed. There will never be another Penny.💔
As I’ve shared with family and friends, I am amazed by how many people loved her. That includes my husband. He and Penny bonded from their first meeting. She gave me her approval right away. In fact, she may have enjoyed his company more than mine over her final six months.❤️ Last week came the revelation that losing her would have been infinitely more difficult without him (and his puppy) in the house now. Pen kept going and took care of me until she knew I wasn’t alone anymore.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (Bible verse from James 1:17)
Play by Play Day by Day with Amy Lawrence 
March 11, 2024 at 8:05 pm
Sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing.
March 11, 2024 at 8:44 pm
I am sorry Amy. Penny was so special just like you . You are in my prayers.
March 11, 2024 at 9:19 pm
I am so sorry for the loss you’ve suffered. I had to read your post as soon as I saw the picture of Penny – she was a double for Butch the dog I grew up with. Like Penny he was open to adventure, love and fun. and like penny the loss left a big hole in the family when he died. You and I have been blessed to have had such wonderful creatures in our life!
March 11, 2024 at 10:46 pm
What a beautiful rememberence of your best friend Penny for those 12 years. I remember the stories you’ve written and told on the air of how she would be at your side every moment. The playing in the leaves comes to mind.
I’m so sorry for your loss, we miss our fur babies when we have to say goodbye but they’re in our hearts. The photos help us through those difficult days when you miss them most.
Thank you for sharing your life together.
March 11, 2024 at 11:27 pm
Penny was truly your emotional support dog. How amazing our furry ones can be. I’m sorry for your loss. Take care. Sending you and Bob virtual hugs.
March 12, 2024 at 8:19 am
I’m crying now. 🥲. What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful friend!
March 12, 2024 at 8:24 am
What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful dog. Penny will always be with you. God’s gift from above.
March 12, 2024 at 9:32 am
Looks like I’ve started the day with a good cry. 😦 Thank you for your courage to share this story. Penny gave you a world of love and you provided her with the same. You and her were so lucky to have found each other. Prayers unabated.
March 12, 2024 at 10:40 am
Prayers for you Mrs Amy. I feel like I knew Penny from hearing all the nice things you’ve told us about her over the last few years listening to you.
March 12, 2024 at 5:40 pm
OMG Amy – I was wondering if you’d had to make the hardest decision of your life yet. I am SOOO sorry she’s left you physically but please know you did the right thing! Letting our beloved babies go is the hardest thing to do but the most selfless thing we have to do if we love them. She’s with you always and you gave her an AMAZING life. I’m in awe you’ve been able to do your show all week. And I’m glad you could share this news thru the blog vs on the radio because I don’t want you to have to talk about it until you’re ready. We love you and appreciate you letting us into your world. May God bless you, Bob and your wonderful family. Xoxo
March 12, 2024 at 6:04 pm
So sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to her. 🐾💔. I am crying along with you. She came and left at the perfect time. God always knows best. ✝️ ❤️🐾
March 12, 2024 at 6:16 pm
So sorry to hear about Penny.
We lost our English Mastiff, Molson, 3 days ago. It’s so hard losing a pet, family member really. Feeling for you Amy.
Michael F.
Falls Church, Virginia
March 12, 2024 at 6:25 pm
I shall keep you and Penny in my prayers, also your husband as he, I’m sure, is going through this huge loss with you! The loving bond that we have with these dear souls and the way they can fill our being with love and trust is irreplaceable! We lost our precious one this past November 9th so I’m also grieving with you Amy❤️
March 12, 2024 at 6:31 pm
As two radio fans, Penny has been a part of our lives for several years now. Our hearts have been with you throughout your grieving, but you’ve been blessed with many who share in your grief, especially your husband and his (your) new pup.
Don And Donna Hunt
March 12, 2024 at 6:49 pm
I’m so very, very sorry for your loss Amy. They do forever leave paw prints on our hearts. Cherish every memory. Sending love and prayers. xoxoxo
March 12, 2024 at 7:48 pm
So very sorry for your loss. Heartbreaking.
March 12, 2024 at 7:52 pm
Amy, it’s so hard to say goodbye to our fur babies. Penny had the greatest life with you, and you will never forget all the wonderful memories.
I’m so glad that you have Bob and his pup in your life. Thanks for sharing the story of your life with Penny. May she rest in peace, and may you have peace knowing how much you both loved each other!
March 12, 2024 at 8:08 pm
Hi. I am so sorry for your loss of Penny. Hugs to you. She will always be a part of you although, she took a Hugh part of your heart she left Hugh part of it with you. Dogs and animals in general are the best thing. XxxOooXxx RIP Penny.
March 12, 2024 at 8:36 pm
Your heart will hurt for months, but Penny looked out for you. She waited until you found your human love, broke him in, let his puppy get acclimated and then said, “Amy, you are in a good place. My job is done here. Thank you and farewell.”
March 12, 2024 at 8:36 pm
ir m so deply sorry for yor loss. god speed pennt
March 13, 2024 at 4:40 am
OMG!! I never knew I’d cry for a dog I never met. Maybe I missed alot over the years of you sharing your beautiful Penny. I love that you shared her story From her first name, to a shelter, to picking your husband, till she stayed with you until you were no longer alone. 😭😭😭 What a beautiful deserving tribute you’ve done for her. Thanks for sharing her with us. Rest in peace Penny. You also had a big following too.
March 12, 2024 at 8:43 pm
What a beautiful tribute to your dear sweet girl. Penny will always be with you and you’re right about that hole in your heart; it’s okay to keep it just for her. Sincere condolences for your loss.
March 12, 2024 at 9:06 pm
What a lucky dog to have you! I know she was well cared for. They become family members. I’m convinced there is a special place for our pet friends that we will see again someday. I’m sorry for your loss.
March 12, 2024 at 9:27 pm
a beautiful tribute to a wonderful dog and blessing for the both of you . As it’s often people rescue pets and those pets rescue people. Thanks for sharing penny with all of us . We all ♥️ that you did
March 13, 2024 at 12:05 am
A precious pup and a wonderful tribute! She will always be in your heart!
Penny Rodzewicz
March 13, 2024 at 12:20 am
Thank you, Amy, for your beautiful writing from your heart. Penny was a blessing, and you gave her a wonderful life.
March 13, 2024 at 12:40 am
I’m completely and utterly crushed to hear about Penny leaving us! You have always kept her close to you but also to your fans! My heart hurts and my eyes are leaking and I can only imagine how hard it must be for you even with Bob and the pup there!
Safe journey to the other side Penny! You were and always will be loved!
My cat – Princess Babu – sends her purrs too!
March 13, 2024 at 4:24 am
Angels sent from God to give us unconditional love comfort and joy beyond words. I have been deeply blessed to experience this in my life and thank God for it.My heartfelt condolences for your loss.
March 13, 2024 at 8:10 am
I am so sorry for your loss of Penny. I feel as though I got to know her as well. You and Penny shared a very special bond. She was blessed to have such a loving owner. She showed you loyalty and you gave her a great life. I know Penny is at peace now. You and Penny are in my prayers.
March 13, 2024 at 7:29 pm
so broken-hearted over the sad news about Penny. She was always a delightful pup. You wrote a beautiful story about her special ways and what a gift she was to you. We always enjoyed your visits with her.
March 13, 2024 at 7:57 pm
hey Amy , just heard @ Penny , so sad for your loss! You had some wonderful memories with her ! Now she’s with Granny playing & running together! Take care Friend! ❤️🥲💪😇👼
March 13, 2024 at 9:13 pm
Enjoyed all the adventures of Penny you shared on- air, throughout the years. For example, wrapping yourself in layers of clothes to take her on walks because she loved walking in the coldest of winters. Or the time you came home and you thought someone broke in, but it was just Penny. It’s tough losing a family member. I lost my Anakin last year and I’m still not Ok. I didn’t even cry when my abuelita passed but for Anakin I cried a couple of days. All the positive vibes from Houston.
March 14, 2024 at 9:55 am
Thank you Amy for your heartfelt experiences about Penny. As a longtime follower of yours, I and many others, have loved following the exploits of Penny through your stories. I am so sorry for your loss but truly believe Penny is in a better place. It’s been a joy to hear all your adventures with Penny over the years. God Bless
March 14, 2024 at 10:28 am
Thank you for sharing a beautiful story. We share your grief but rejoice in the gift you shared with us over the years. You are an amazing woman Amy!
March 14, 2024 at 7:13 pm
So sorry for your loss. But you are right – Penny waited until she knew you wouldn’t be alone. She was a good and faithful friend – right up until the end. God bless.
March 15, 2024 at 12:06 am
I will miss hearing your stories about Penny. Sorry for your loss, and cherish the memories of your 4-legged friend.
March 16, 2024 at 7:53 pm
So sorry. I will miss hearing about Penny. I remember thinking as her health was declining. She waited till Bob was in your life to let go.
Gentle hugs
March 16, 2024 at 11:17 pm
So sorry to hear about your loss of that beautiful girl “Penny”. I know how it feels to lose a pet. My dog was 16 when I had to let him go and it was heartbreaking but I knew it was better for him.
March 25, 2024 at 9:18 pm
What a wonderful story . My dog Sadie is 11 and I know her years are numbered . Thank you for sharing
Harold
April 17, 2024 at 5:49 am
What a wonderful tribute and touching words for your faithful friend and companion, Amy.
I have listened to you from the first time I heard you, even before After Hours. As I am not on social media, this is my only chance to express a sincere appreciation for all that you bring to we, your listeners, not the least of which is a personal connection, unequaled on the radio airwaves. Thank you for all you are.
Joanne Prior
Dracut, MA.
September 10, 2024 at 11:34 am
Amy our family is so sorry for your loss. At this time we were experiencing several family difficulties so I lost touch with your show for awhile.While catching up on your show I noticed Penny wasn’t mentioned. I didn’t want to intrude.After reading this lively heartfelt tribute to Penny it really hit home how we need to appreciate everyone and everything. Life unfortunately is temporary but moments last forever. We wish you while much belated our sincerest condolences and prayers. Unfortunately this part is written when your pet adopts you.pur 12 year old I’m scared to say has had seizures loss of hearing and kidney disease but we are hoping and praying and just thankful each day. Blessings to you and your family.
December 17, 2024 at 5:20 am
Amy, If my doggies aren’t in Heaven, I’m not going! Well they have to be there, it’s Heaven. Know your grief. Enough said. 🙏