Belita’s Space – August 2024
When photographer Martina Patella suggested “the dog days of summer” as the theme for the August cover, the assignment inspired me to curate a celebration of the dogs of Jacksonville.
As we shared photos of the sweetest faces and stories from dog owners who were full of adoration and affection, Review publisher, Whit, remarked, “Dogs make humans better people!” Collectively, we photographed over 50 dogs (and counting) on daily walks in preparation for social media content. It was—and will continue to be—such a delight to focus the lens on the joy and connection of the canine culture and the enrichment that dogs bring to our lives.
My healing heart is better for the experience.
The dissonance of one conspicuously absent dog (with the dearest eyes and the longest ears) accompanied me on this assignment.
Losing Trevor in March was incredibly hard. This community demonstrated generous, heartfelt care and shared deep understanding of this particular and pure grief.
When Trevor died, along with calls and texts, I would find cards, meaningful gifts, plants and flowers on my doorstep, and for months I received thoughtful deliveries, much-needed hugs and condolences. People still kindly ask how I am doing since he’s been gone.
My heart holds such great memories of learning the trails with Trevor, him teaching me about the best people around town, and the optimal route for maximum treats: Animalkind, City Hall, the Planning Department, Ace Hardware, Rebel Heart Books, The Pot Rack, Carefree Buffalo, and in summertime, Violets & Cream.
This issue is an expression of gratitude for the dogs who make our town a better place, and a thank you letter to the community who cares for its dogs and their humans so well.
August 2024 – Follow @jacksonvillereview on Instagram & Facebook for “Every Day Has Its Dog” featuring the dogs of Jacksonville!
Featured image above: l-r: Timmy Linsday, Charlie Hecox, Daisy Foster, Daisy Shields, Walter Cronk. Photo by Martina Patella.
Belita Palu-ay and Trevor.
Photo by Martina Patella