The anniversary of your death approaches.

I usually don’t mark such dates

on my mental calendar.

If I did, there would hardly be a good day

left in the year

with summer being the harshest season.

I still miss you.

We still miss you.

We still talk about you

with affection and wonder,

the miraculous, sweet dog

who was ours for only eight months.

We speak so well of you

it feels like betrayal to the new dog.

We love the new dog as fiercely as we loved you.

But each one is different

and we love you all in different ways.

The new dog is not you.

And you were not the dog

that preceded you.

But you’re our angel

and always will be

Forever loved,

forever remembered.

I didn’t think I would ever love another dog as much as I loved you.

Yet I let the new puppy into my heart

quickly and easily.

You dogs are sneaky that way.

How you both captured our heart

on the first day we met you.

I hope that you are happy

and well taken care of

and spoiled rotten

with everything you want

and deserve.

I hope you eat and nap and play all day

in your heaven.

With the good toys

and the best treats

and plenty of love.

We still miss you.

We still love you.

I will live through the anniversary of your passing

without knowing it,

I carry you in my heart.

I mourn you throughout the year.

You taught us we could love another dog.

You showed us how many good dogs there are to love.

We hope to see you again some day

after we both cross over.

It’s a thought that brings us comfort.

We love you, precious girl.