Dear Beloved Pet,

Goodbyes aren't easy for anyone. As much as people shrug them off like they mean nothing, a goodbye is a lot harder than they look.

As I ruffle the perfectly placed fur on the top of your head one last time, I head towards the car packed with my family and most of my belongings. I was told to never look back but I do for the chance to see your lovely face again.

And looking back to you watching me in curiosity out of the screen porch door window makes me realize something.

The hardest goodbye isn't to my parents or to my friends I’m leaving behind for another good set of months.

It's to the one who doesn't talk.

You.

My hardest goodbye is to the unconditional lover that my family has brought into this household; the sunshine that never seems to fade between these walls and under this roof. No matter the day or the moment, you hold no grudges and you always keep this place happy.

You're our rock. The one who seems to hold us all together just by being you and racing around the corner every morning to see us.

The excitement you bring is outstanding and motivational. I want to learn to live a life like you do.

As I buckle up my seat belt and we take off to drop me off at what I call my second home, I already miss you.

You're a once in a lifetime kind of family member.

There's a quote that goes something along the lines of “I work hard so my pet can live a better life.”

I’m doing this for us. Because even though it's breaking my heart to leave you clueless at that window, I know I’ll always come back to you.

No matter how old you are or how your health is coming along, I have to go.

We don't know what tomorrow brings but I know if you understood all this, you'd send me to gain that education and live my dream.

I know this because you want what's best for everyone. You want me to be happy.

And I am. I’m happy with you.

So as I leave you at that doorstep, I want you to continue to be that positive fluffball that you are. The world needs more people as outgoing and happy as you are my little pet.

I’m grateful I found my person as a pet.

Don't miss me too much. You're in good hands with Mom and Dad. See you soon.

Love always,

The person whose bed you probably have taken over by now