On Friday, I had to say goodbye to my dog, Daisy. I was only seven when she came into our family and she has been a huge part of the past twelve years of my life. Having to put her to sleep was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But she was old, blind, deaf, had trouble walking, and had congenital heart failure as well as cancer and diabetes. It was, as my mother had to tell me several times, the kindest thing to do for her-- to love her enough to let her go before she began to suffer greatly.

I will never ever forget my Daisy and the unconditional love that she gave us. She seemed to always know when I needed someone. Whenever I had a bad day and I'd go up to my room and cry, Daisy would wander in and come to curl up with me and give me kisses. But she was also the funniest and sweetest thing, and the source of a lot of laughter and smiles. I think we can all learn a lot from dogs and the way that they treat people. I truly believe with all my heart that she is in Heaven now; she was the most loving animal and a true blessing.

Today, I received a package in the mail. It was a surprise from my wonderful boyfriend-- a memorial pendant of a paw with wings, dedicated to my Daisy. This sweet note arrived with it (and no, it's not his handwriting; he sent the message in and the lady at the shop created it). I am reminded not only of my puppy, but of the fact that although she's gone, I am still very loved, and I have many loved ones to be thankful for and to cherish.

I also took my cousin's senior pictures today, and I'm very happy with how many of them turned out. This one certainly may not be the best quality picture, but I decided that I wanted to share the story with you all as it means so much to me.