5 People Foods to Share with Your Pet: A Tribute to Creator of The Rainbow Bridge

I recently stumbled across Paul Koudounaris’ article on Edna Clyne, the woman who wrote the iconic Rainbow Bridge Poem. I thought it would be nice to offer a brief summary, and then add to this lovely tribute by providing a couple pet and human friendly recipes that both of you can enjoy!

The Creator of The Rainbow Bridge

In 1959, in Inverness, Scotland, a young Edna Clyne mourned the loss of her first dog, Major, a special Labrador Retriever. While Major was not her family's first dog, he was the first to be solely hers. Their bond was unique - Edna felt Major understood her every word without any training. His passing led Edna to write a heartfelt piece, a creation that would soon touch countless lives around the world.

Edna's composition, "The Rainbow Bridge," describes a heavenly realm where departed pets wait for their human companions. It's a concept that resonates deeply with those grieving their animal friends. Over the years, this narrative has become synonymous with comfort and hope for pet owners, transcending borders and beliefs.

Despite its widespread recognition, the true authorship of "The Rainbow Bridge" remained shrouded in mystery. The words became a cherished part of the pet mourning process, but Edna Clyne never received the credit she deserved.

Today, at the age of 82, Edna still treasures the original handwritten copy of her creation. She has continued to share her love with dogs throughout her life, believing that the love you give to a dog lives on forever.

Edna Clyne's legacy is not just about a famous narrative; it's a reminder that the bond between humans and their pets is enduring, even beyond the Rainbow Bridge.

Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

• 1 cup butter-flavored shortening

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

  Filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

• 3 cups confectioners' sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 5 to 6 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream the shortening, peanut butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and mix well.

2. Shape into 1-in. balls and place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten to 3/8-in. thickness with fork. Bake at 375° for 7-8 minutes or until golden. Remove to wire racks to cool.

3. For filling, in a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla and enough milk to achieve spreading consistency. Spread on half of the cookies and top each with another cookie.