Dearest Dixie,
You came into our lives 15 years ago when we were all so heartbroken over losing Cara. You and Mom were matched souls from the first time your eyes met. And when Cara came home to us, the two of your were best of friends. She left us years ago, but you have been a constant. A constant shadow of my Mom. A constant guardian of our house. But most of all, a constant love in our life. Even as you aged, your happy bounce and silly puppy antics always put a smile on our face. You slowly stopped playing fetch the log out of the lake, but you always gave it a token fetch when we threw a smaller 'log' in the yard. The only thing you wanted was to be near us, whether it was by the fire in the winter, or the sunny spot in the yard - you were always there.
Today, you are no longer 'there'. In spirit yes, but in body no. It wasn't the easiest of passing, and for that we are sorry. It was time for you to go before we could ease your passing. Know that we mourn your loss, but rejoice in that you hurt no more and can play as you want. I know Cara was waiting for you. You two can go pester the skunks together again without having to suffer us humans holding our nose on your return.
Mom misses you terribly. You were her dog, even though we all loved you. We buried you in the flower beds, so that you will always be with Mom in death as your were in life as she tends her garden. Thank you for choosing Mom that day. She has loved you so much, and you meant the world to her. We so wish that you could have stayed with us longer, but we know that at 17 years, you were so tired and hurt so much. So even though you will not be a constant shadow, you will always be a constant presence in our heart. A heart that fills a lot emptier......
Happy butt and tail wags, sweet Dixie. Mom will meet you at the bridge one day.
-Amy
