Gogo & Daisy Blue

Roman Cortez is a stranger to me, yet a friend. We haven’t officially met but we have a kinship through our shared affinity for boston terriers. He is a video director, artist, and writer/producer by trade but his talent spills over into his personal life in a beautiful and impactful way. In recent months, his story has incurred some difficult and painful experiences – ones that have developed a positive message I’d like to share.

Roman has posted hundreds of photo-stories on Instagram about his bostons, Gogo and Daisy Blue, (@gogodaisyblue) and every message seems to capture not only the simple joys of life – of pet ownership – but leaves you knowing for certain this one thing — that our connection with all living creatures, respecting and loving each other, honoring and affirming each other, sharing of ourselves, encouraging and lifting each other up, is a blessing (and, actually, a privilege). It’s what fills the heart (sometimes to overflowing) and makes us whole.

Recently, through great loss, Roman has produced something insightful and beautiful that will speak to everyone, to all ages. More on that in a minute, but first let me tell you how it all started.

I remember when my son, David first told me about Gogo and Daisy Blue. Because of our love for Gus, our Boston, (@gusgusdogger) we were always on the lookout for stories and photos of other cuties of the same breed. Years ago, he saw those adorable bug-eyed, flat-nosed beauties online and began following on Instagram the entertaining storyline Roman provided us fans. Little did we know that this couple and their dogs would become a part of our lives through their publications.

Soon after Roman and his wife Michelle published the spiffy little blue hardbound book, Don’t Be Blue, Daisy Blue, my son David put in his order (Yay!) so he could give a copy to his nieces and nephews, (my grand babies, Vivi and Charles, and our newest baby, Jane Louise). How fun it has been to read aloud to them a story about two adventurous doggers we have been following in real life, online!

Here’s a link to place an order for your own copy of Don’t Be Blue, Daisy Blue:

https://tinyurl.com/y3jsav4q

Roman and Michelle also collaborated on another book, Let’s Go, Gogo! – a fun adventure book that helps children explore various outdoor activities with Gogo as their guide.

Roman and Michelle were fortunate to be the parents of Gogo and Daisy Blue for about 14 years. Then, earlier this year, Daisy Blue developed health problems that took her life, and Gogo, not too long afterwards, also became ill and followed her. They left this earth within just months of each other.

“We are truly grateful to have been given the chance to experience the true love a dog can bring into your lives, let alone, two.” — Roman & Michelle

Since then, Roman has celebrated the lives of these little pooches (and in doing so, has begun navigating his way through the healing process) by writing and illustrating two small (5×5″) handmade, parchment paper books shown below. I’ve ordered several copies and will order more so I’ll have them on hand whenever a situation arises where someone needs lifting up after a loss such as this or simply needs to feel inspired by stories of unabashed love.

The first little mini-book is entitled Daisy Blue, Where Are You? There, Gogo tells of her confusion and concern for Daisy Blue as she searches the house inside and out for her, realizing she is no longer there. Her buddy, her life’s companion has gone to heaven. It describes her loneliness and questioning, and as each page is turned, the reader sees Gogo conversing with her Mama and Papa, trying to understand what has happened to her beloved Daisy Blue. Eventually, Gogo speaks to Daisy Blue through her prayers, explaining, promising and reassuring her that she would take care of their parents, would love her and pray for her from a distance, until they are together again.

Not long after Daisy Blue’s passing, Roman and Michelle experienced more heartbreak when Gogo became ill and didn’t make it. Through that loss, Roman penned another lovely little mini-book that is also a true work of art, not only in its illustrations but in its words and sentiment. It’s a story of what it is like to be reunited, the sheer joy of it all – the sharing and celebrating your love for each other.

Here’s a page-by-page look at Gogo, Is That You? – https://www.instagram.com/p/BzGsx8yj18Q/?igshid=1it84pklu2zqt

Roman, a man of many talents, has also painted a dynamic and colorful mural (there in L.A. where the couple resides) that captures the playful sweet spirits of Gogo and Daisy Blue. Here is a shot of his preliminary painting on paper as well as the final product, a grand wall that celebrates their life. There many more of his works of art to be seen in L.A. Visit insta page @gogodaisyblue for more information.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmrA1EcjniA/?igshid=1e3acv2tk8o11

Here’s where you can order these mini-books from Roman’s website. All proceeds are donated 100% to their local Boston Terrier Rescue organization, @bostonbuddies

For Daisy Blue, Where Are You —

https://www.romancortez.com/shop/daisy-blue-where-are-you-custom-book

For Gogo, Is That You? —

https://www.romancortez.com/shop/gogo-is-that-you-custom-book

Share them with someone who is grieving or someone who will benefit from knowing how love transcends all earthly cares, someone who would find joy in knowing (or confirming) that love for humans and animals, together, is a jewel of an experience beyond compare.

It’s my desire to make certain I keep busyness from intruding on my relationships, with family, friends, both the ones already established and the ones that are budding. I’m referring to all types of relationships, to include not only the furry but the non-furry.

In my view, these stories are remarkable, invaluable, and a blessing. Their message goes beyond the obvious and shows us, by example, how to treat each other – at a time when our world needs it more than ever – needs the insight, inspiration and encouragement to move forth in life with love and compassion. It’s a message I need to hear. It’s obvious, the benefits, don’t you think? It’s the only way to live. I mean, who would want to miss out on the rewards that it brings?

Love,

Jane