I will always remember the way you looked at me from across the room, wondering longingly when I was going to come to you.

I remember the feel of your fur in my nails as I scratched your chin and behind your ears.

I can feel the weight of your body as I lifted you onto the couch as your weary body needed a little help.

I can hear your bark as you called me downstairs to let you out onto the porch or alert me to someone -- or some turkey -- outside the house.

I will smile every time I see another pooch walking on a leash knowing how happy you would be to see one your own.

I will celebrate your joy as you awaited your beloved chicken that I freshly made for you while you barked and jumped and danced enthusiastically performing for your treat.

I will look up at the stars at night, breathe in the cool crisp air, and take in the stillness the way I did with you when you lied in the grass all the while trying to teach me to slow down and stay present.

I will miss kissing you on the top of your head even when you didn't love it.

I will miss feeding you by hand in the end when the illness spoiled even favorite foods.

I will laugh when I see a squirrel perched on the porch and recall your stealthy walk toward it without discovery.

I will miss walking in the house and see you waiting by the door overjoyed upon my return whether I was gone 5 minutes or 5 hours -- your missing made me feel loved.

I will miss you every day and in every way you enriched my life.

With love and joy forever,
Blythe