First of all, I miss you every single day, more than I ever thought was possible. It hurts to know you’re not with me, but I know you’d give anything to be next to me.

You never talked to me (in words), but I know you listened to every thing I said. Thank you for being my best friend for ten years, thank you for loving me even when didn’t love myself.

To me, you were always more than a dog- you were my best friend and damn were you the greatest friend I could’ve ever asked for.

Ten years was just too short, but I don’t want to sound ungrateful, because the time we did have was something I will always treasure. I wish I had longer with you, but life had other plans.

Even if it was just another day of doing your favorite things; I’d give you a whole jar of peanut butter while we snuggled on my bed (Yes, that’s allowed now!); I’d let you snore as loud as you wanted without ever complaining. Forget the dog food, you could have all the hot dogs, cheese, and bologna you want. I’d talk your ear off about all the changes in life, the changes in school, the five dogs in the family you never got to meet, all my new friends and even the ones I’ve left behind, while you laid there and comforted me- because that’s what you did best. I’d take you to visit all of your favorite people, because I know you miss them, too.

But cancer had other plans for you, plans I will never understand, but I’m learning to cope, but it’s hard. It’s been two and a half years, and I still struggle with your loss daily. I still get teary-eyed when someone brings up your name or I see your picture. I have two new friends now, but there are still days I wish it was you with me.

You left with a piece of my heart I will never and can never get back. You stole my heart when I ran around in mismatched clothing and pigtails, and I’ll remember you until I’m old and grey. I can’t wait to see you again someday, Bubba.