9/11/22 - Good morning my sweetest boy, it's been exactly two weeks since you left us crossing over the rainbow bridge. Mommy and Daddy love and miss you more than you can ever know. Saying goodbye to you was the hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life, but I know you are free of pain soaring high in the sky as our guardian angel watching over us. We are so excited to come visit you at Grandpa's house today. Mommy is creating a beautiful memorial garden... Just for you! Even though your physical body is no longer with us, we can still feel your presence. I snuggle up with your little moo blanket and snuggle puppy stuffy every single night since you left us. They both still smell like you, which makes me feel peace and comfort. It will never feel the same as your warm little boy cuddled up next to me, but I will cherish any moment I can to feel close to you in some way. :)

Every day, I enjoy scrolling through pictures and videos of you on my phone, admiring how adorable and loving you were. I am forever grateful Papa and I took every photo and recording we did during your precious lifetime. They were all worth it, knowing I always come back to them when I miss you. I will never forget your sweet smile and your happy tail whenever papa and I come walking through the door or come to check on you while you are hiding burrowed in our bed. You loved playing hide and seek with us. I remember you being the smallest boy- Papa and I always had to be careful not to accidentally sit on you whenever we sat down on the couch or our bed. ^_^ Somehow you always maneuvered yourself into the perfect position while you slept between your papa and I in bed. You were quite the little contortionist! Our bed still feels so empty without you in it. It is still taking some getting used to... I would love it if you would visit me in my dreams? It would make mommy's heart so full to be able to hold you again. Even just for a few minutes. You can even introduce me to all of your wonderful new fur friends in heaven. :) Maybe mommy will be able to rest just a little bit easier seeing how you are doing

It breaks my heart to know you may be looking down on me seeing my cry when I think of you. There is not a day that passes that I do not think of you. Almost 12 years with you was not enough time to spend with you. It hurt me to see you struggling. You fought so hard your last two years or so... Even though you couldn't vocalize when you were hurting, I felt your pain looking into your eyes, feeling your heart murmur pitter patter through your fragile chest... You were coughing and wheezing simply trying to breathe. You tried fought so hard giving it your all your last few months, and we are so very proud of you honey. It was your time. <3 Being able to provide you the most beautiful gift of all, a peaceful passing, free of pain- This is what we felt was right for you. Being able to gather all of your loved ones in the comfort of your own home was the most beautiful thing in the world for your last day before you became our little angel. We are so happy Uncle Mike and Grandpa Tom could be here with us on your last day. We are also beyond grateful for Dr. Kitri for taking such sweet care of you during your ceremony. Papa and I can't wait for your new granite gravestone to arrive and Grandpa Tom's house! Papa and I chose to use the picture of you when you were fresh out of the bath, looking so cute and fluffy from being towel-dried. :) Seeing the proof of your stone before your engraving brought tears to my eyes with how beautiful it looked. Mommy and Papa will place it right above you so it protects you and we can visit you while looking at your adorable face.

I've spent the last hour writing to you, sweet boy. This brings me joy being able to visit you here and leave you presents and toys. Papa and I will stop by all the time to visit. I will let all of your friends and family know that you are here so they can stop by to say hello when they would like to as well. :) You will forever be my bestest friend and companion. Thank you for showing me what it feels like to be loved unconditionally each day, good or bad... I will continue to try my best to stay strong, knowing you are watching over me. Thank you for sending your strength and protection through papa's loving arms. Until we meet again. I love you so much, my sweet, Tiko. Forever and ever. <3 <3 <3 Have the best day. :)