It’s true what they say...

The hardest thing about owning a dog is—saying goodbye. I still can’t believe you’re gone, Cordelia Jane.

And, for the first time in nearly twenty years, I don’t have a dog.

Fourteen and a half years ago, you managed to find your way onto my buddy Dave’s porch. He had no way of bringing you into his life, so he brought you to work with him, with every intention of taking you to the Humane Society over the lunch hour.

You were so sad, and so precious, looking out his car window. So, I took you home. You got along with your big sister Aspen so well. The two of you kept each other company, played together, and Aspen, who could never stop running, kept you in shape, because you kept chasing... and chasing... and chasing. You were best friends.

Four years ago, when we lost Aspen, you became so sad. It was like a piece of you was missing. So I stepped up my game. I filled the void Aspen left behind. We started taking trips. You were allowed on the bed to sleep. We spent a LOT of time together. I know you loved me, just by the kisses you were so fond of giving.

Tonight, looking back on the pictures of our road trips... and especially the camping trips... I wish we had done more.

Yet, I have few regrets. You’ve been a great companion over the years. You were the one who taught me unconditional love. Through so many hours away at work, your love never wavered. You were always thrilled to see me.

Even this morning, after finding you’re suddenly unable to stand and walk... you still wagged. You still loved.

And you knew it was time, when you kissed me goodbye.

It was so hard to say goodbye to you, but I had to do it. For all of those times you were there for me, when my life was shitty. For all of those great times, when we’d run and run and play and laugh. For all those times you’d fetch the ball, or speak for the treat, and for all of those 43-second feedings that were clearly the highlight of each day.

For all of those cherished moments, I had to be there for you. I had to hold you until the end. There was no way I was going to let you go into the night... alone.

As sad as I am, it was such a relief when you were lying on that bed... totally relaxed and pain free. Today, we both agreed it was time.

It was time.

Becka, Meghan, and the rest of the staff at the hospital were great. I’m grateful for their tenderness in helping me say goodbye. And the hugs.

Thank you, Cordy Jane, for being such a great companion. I wish we could go on forever, but your job is finished. I will always love you and miss you, but I am thrilled you chose me to be a part of your life, and I will always cherish every moment we shared.

Godspeed, my baby girl.