Dear Riley,

It has been a month and a half since you left us and a day hasn't gone by where we don't talk about you, smile or cry and just plain miss you. We had you for 13 years.....they were 13 years of pure love from you and I want to thank you for that. You loved me when others couldn't or wouldn't and I cherish you for that. Your brother, Wes, misses you too. He misses your nose nudges and paw swats.....things that made us both smile or laugh. I miss you especially at night when you would lay at my feet and keep me company. You were always there to offer your head for me to stroke or your whole body for me to hug. I don't know which one of us got more out of those acts of affection...you or me. I like to think it was mutual!

The bottom line is, I hope you know how very much we loved you. We all knew that the end was coming but we just didn't expect it to happen so quickly or unexpectedly. Our goodbyes were heartwrenching and leaving you was horrible. But we knew you were in pain and we had to do what was best for you.....we loved you too much to let you suffer. I know you are with Mack and Bozzie now and I hope you are having the time of your life.

Wes and I have talked about etting another dog but we aren't ready yet. Maybe in the Spring........But until then, I know you are watching us and loving us. I sometimes think I hear the clink of your collar and tags on the floor and I know it's you saying, "Hi, Mom"!

We love you and miss you terribly!!

Love,

Mom and Wes