The joy of coming home to you and having you jump all over me, hugging me and washing my face with your kisses. The times when you woke me because it was storming outside and we both needed to get out of the house and into shelter. Of taking you to the vet's office and seeing you endear yourself to everyone there, animals and people alike. Of a special time a couple of years ago now, when I was at home sick with a bout of food poisoning and you were there. You even tried to get me to play with you on that horrible day, despite being crippled by arthritis, just to cheer me up when I felt so awful. Of walks in the rain and the snow. Of you sleeping (or "recharging") as Melissa called it, on the back seat of the truck during our trips to New York and to shows. Of your love of toys, and how excited you used to get whenever I would bring you a new one. Of your play dates with Colin, Sierra, Mouse, Cleo, King, and eventually, Maggie. Of snuggling together on the couch at home, and hearing your blissful sighs. You were always happiest whenever you were where I was.

Now it's time for you to leave me and start your journey to the Bridge. You're in paradise there, and that gives me some peace. I wish you a good journey, and I want you to know that although I will miss you, you will always hold a special place in my heart and memories. May you fly with the Angels now, as the old song says. And say hi for me to your dog friends, to Baskin and Robbin, Sierra, Mouse, Giles, Cleo, and King, and even to your horse friends. I am sure that Buzz, Zeke, Lista, Kitty, Patch, Suntan, Rocket, Casper, and Lady are all waiting to greet you. Farewell, sweetheart. I will see you again one day, when it's time.

Update 5/2024: Happy belated birthday and anniversary, sweet friend. It has been two years now since you left, but I still have a place in my heart for you.