Laura,
I think I speak for all the nutters when I say that we mourn with you the passing of your father. Though I cannot imagine the loss you must be feeling now, I hope that others around you are helping you through this difficult time. I lost my Dad 12 years ago. I still dream of him. If there is anything I can do, let me know.
You spoke once of a "Rainbow bridge" awaiting us and our pets to help console someone else (I think it was Giovanni) who had l;ost a beloved dog. I truly believe there is something to that and something similar happens with our loved ones.
Kmart