Whoever said "diamonds were a girl's best friend" never owned a dog. Dogs have the ability to make you feel better whenever you feel sad, anxious or angry. Humans are blessed to be able to walk on the same planet as dogs. Although I love all kinds of dogs, I have my favorite who I love very much. Her name is Ellie. She is an 8-year-old multi-poo who happens to be my BFF. We spend every waking moment together; she even sleeps with me. In about two weeks, I will be packing up my belongings to move to one of the greatest universities in Ohio. (Bowling Green State University — Go Falcons!) I don't want to leave my Ellie behind. I wish I could pack her in my bags, and take her with me. So, I wanted to time to write her a letter. This is for you El!

Hey Ellie Girl,

Eight years ago, your little paws walked straight through our front door and my life was changed forever. You have been with me through every high and every low, always offering me a kiss whenever I walk in the room. In the next week or so, things will be different. I will not be coming home from my dad's house anymore like our normal routine, so I want to write you a little something before I get in my car and never come back.

1. I want you to know I love you more than anything in the world.

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always wanted a dog. I dreamed of you for years, until Mom finally buckled down and allowed me to have a puppy of my own. When we first got you, I didn't know anything about responsibility. I was terrified I wouldn't get to keep you if I didn't feed you right or let you out regularly. But we learned and we learned together. You have been a constant rock in my life and I will always be thankful for that. I will never forget you.

2. I will never forget you.

It kills me just to leave you every other week or even to run errands. I hate the looks you give me when I have to tell you goodbye- always having a look of despair on your face. When I leave for college, I will never forget you. There's nothing more I love in this world than to be greeted by wet slobbery kisses from you. Every time I miss you, I will just become even more excited for Thanksgiving break.

3. I promise there is no other dog in my life.

You always get jealous whenever I give anyone more attention than you. But I just want you to know you hold a special place in my heart. After all, you're my first dog and you will never be replaced by another dog. There will not be a day that goes by where I don't think of you. Even though I won't be coming home to hold and pet you on a regular basis, I promise another dog hasn't stolen my heart.

4. Don't worry, someone will let you go on car rides.

Every time I decide to make a local errand, you usually jump right in the car with me. You love having the windows down, letting the wind blow your fur. After we're done, you usually have the biggest smile on your face, tail wagging. Even though I won't be home for our regular bonding time, I am sure someone will let you climb in their car and jam out to T Swift with them.

5. Your hugs will be missed more than you know.

Throughout our eight years together, you have never once failed to be there when I'm upset. I can only imagine what will happen when the homesickness kicks in and I won't have my furry companion to be by my side. It will be so weird walking in my dorm room and not having my baby jump on me or wine to pick her up.

I can't even begin to tell you how much your unconditional love has meant to me over the years. You have always been right by my side and I am very sad to say I will have to leave yours. This is just something I have to do, but don't worry, it's only temporary. I will be home soon, and I will only be an hour away. But just know I'll miss you terribly.

I love you,

Lindsay