Hey you,

This may seem like a strange letter to be writing but you deserve a little appreciation and recognition every once in awhile.

I was lucky enough for you to wander into my life, courtesy of a Craigslist ad, and ever since that faithful day almost 10 years ago, you have changed my life in an incredible way. I think people underestimate the power of dogs and their love. I wasn't convinced. I mean, yeah, I loved animals and other people's dogs were such a joy, but having you in my life as my own was an incredibly different feeling.

You came into the picture when you were most desperately needed. My family unit was going through a rough patch, and we were't exactly sure where or when the grey clouds would end. But little did we know you'd be the ray of sunshine we so desperately needed.

You were so excited to live somewhere with a yard, as your previous home was in the city surrounded by apartment buildings and concrete. You realized how much we loved you and you gave us that love back tenfold. We soon realized what you liked and didn't like, and that since you had hair instead of fur, you smelled like baby powder instead of wet dog. You like certain treats broken up into small pieces so you can eat them easier. Being carried like a baby or a small child is something that most dogs would hate, but you love it. Morning cuddles are something you craved from anyone who had room in their bed.

When a bad breakup happened or I heard some heartbreaking news, and all I could do was cry, you would always wander into my room and jump in my bed. You cuddled close enough that I knew you were there, but far enough that I could still feel my emotions. It's almost like you could tell how bad I was hurting and wanted to make sure I was OK. It was the most comforting feeling, especially when I was feeling very alone.

When I left for college and had to say my goodbyes, yours was the hardest. You weren't going to be my security blanket, and you weren't going to be there to make me feel safe and loved. But it forced me to learn how to appreciate everything around me.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, they say. And boy, is that true. When I first came back from college for the summer, I was so happy and excited to see you. On the three-hour drive back up, I wasn't sure you were going to even remember me since I was gone for so long. Instead, I was greeted with a bunch of kisses and you jumping on me to pick you up. Here's a few things I want you to know.

Thank you for being my best friend when I needed you the most. Thank you for always being a constant ray of sunshine. Thank you for letting me talk to you, and for giving me no judgement on all my crazy stories. Thank you for always being my friend and being the support system I desperately needed at times.

Love,

Me