06/01/2026
Today was a tough day. Aiyana left for her new family.
I remember the day she stepped off the plane from Romania and immediately acted like she had known me forever. I remember her sleeping in the hotel bed with me that first night. She fit right in from the start, and before long she and Yuvani became inseparable.
Those two were always together…side by side, cuddled up, thick as thieves. Neither made it into the breeding program, but they stayed because they belonged together, and I loved watching their bond.
When Yuvani passed away this winter, Aiyana was suddenly alone. Farhad spent as much time with her as he could, but she still spent too much of her day without her best friend. Every day I sat with her in that pasture, holding her, crying, and telling her that I missed Yuvani too. I promised her I would find her a home where she would never have to be alone again.
My heart hurt for her every single day.
Thankfully, we found the perfect family. Aiyana will live inside, be spoiled rotten, and be loved by a mom, dad, and little human sister. There’s even a cat…who’s still deciding how they feel about the arrangement, despite Aiyana’s love for cats. Her new mom is also an incredibly talented artist who painted a beautiful portrait of Yuvani for me. Somehow, it all feels meant to be.
Today I let Aiyana go so she could have the life she deserves. But if I’m being honest, it feels like I didn’t just let go of Aiyana…I let go of Yuvani, too.
I know Aiyana is going to have an amazing life with her wonderful new family. I know both of us will heal through this process. And the best part? She’s only three hours away and will come visit from time to time.
I couldn’t ask for a better ending to this chapter. ❤️
We’ll be posting updates and photos as soon as she’s settled into her new home. ❤️
Side note: Aiayana’s new mama Rachel Dawn Cleveland does beautiful commissions if anyone is interested. She truly captured Yuvani in the painting ❤️
