Happy Birthday Sweetheart

by Bea

A year ago today was the last time I ever saw you, so I want to say thank you in a different way other than in my head. Even though you are not with me now, you sat by my side, waiting for me to glance over my shoulder to check if you were still there, which you always were, sitting and waiting patiently for... attention? love? Realistically, I know it was food, but for this deep emotional memorial we'll pretend it was love.

Thank you for not coming back and haunting us. Everyone misses you like crazy, even the cats (probably). Even though we are looking to adopt another rescue dog like you, it is important to know that we are not looking to replace you. Plus you know how mum is, she fell apart a year ago after you left us so she needs something to take her mind off work.

Thank you for sitting and waiting for me to calm down when I had my most low moments. You always knew how to calm me down. My depression hasn't, admittedly, gotten any better since you left (obvious I know) so hopefully this new dog will help me in the same way you did. Again, you are not being replaced.

I'm sorry for not being present when we had to end your suffering. A cancerous tumour couldn't have been fun. I forgot to tell you but Barney went as well this year, but seeing as he's probably by your side right now I guess you already knew this. Don't eat his food and SHARE the beds.

I'm sorry, Poppy, I wish we had found you when you were a pup so you didn't have to face the puppy farm and kennels and other horrible life trials you had to face before you came to us. You really lit up my world and made life worth living.

We miss you. I hope we meet again. I love you, sweetheart.