Day 37
Quitting Her Job

Ms. King was still working as a postal carrier back in the Spokane area. For a week in August, she had to return home while her husband continued the search.

She talked with her bosses about taking some time off. But that wasn’t feasible during summer months. Though the money had helped supplement their pensions, she gave her notice.

“Katie was just more important to me,” Ms. King said. “I just said, ‘I’ll finish this week, and that’s it.’”

When she returned to Kalispell, Mr. King had to return to Spokane. He left a note written for Katie.

“I am going home to care for your brothers and sister,” Mr. King said, referring to their two other dogs and a cat. “Instead of saying good bye, I would rather say, ‘See you soon.’”