Dear Jackson,

From the day you came home, you've followed us around everywhere we went. You were so small you couldn't walk up the stairs. You didn't care when we would play dress up with you, or when you were a boy dog with a princess outfit on. You sat calmly and patiently as little girls put necklaces and headbands on you. We would put you in laundry hampers, wrap you in blankets and take you out of your bed at night. But you sat and grinned (because we all know dogs can smile) and never complained.

In elementary and middle school, we would always dress you up as Santa for Christmas, and you were countless things for Halloween. When we got sick you always laid in bed with us. You've watched countless episodes of "Grey's," "Scandal," and "Gossip Girl." You've also witnessed more than you can imagine. You've seen my high school boyfriends come and go, best friend fights, and many different people walk out of my room.

I know you're in every memory of mine the way I know the colors of my room at home. You've been silently watching, seeing so much take place before your small eyes. You've seen 10 years of my life. I've grown and changed, while you remain the same loving and patient dog.

You were my biggest fan for my whole childhood. When I lost a game or got a bad grade, you still smiled at me. Your tail still wagged when I saw you. For so many days, you were my best friend.

Whenever I walk, I've always known you'll be right behind me. But from now on, you won't be watching everything I do. In fact, the next time you see me I'll likely be a pretty different person. I hope you'll still recognize my smell and voice.

You've seen me pack for many things before, whether it be camp or a trip. But now, when you see me pack, I'll be gone for a while. You won't understand why there are so many boxes in my room and you won't know where the fourth set of footsteps around our house went.

But I know I'll come back for holidays and visits, and you'll be the same you've always been. I'll walk in after the long drive and you'll be sitting by the door waiting. Waiting the same way you did after the last day of 5th grade, 8th grade, and high school graduation. With the same smile I know so well.

You've taught me how to unconditionally love people. You've taught me patience and how to always smile. I wish I would've taken you with me to Starbucks more often, I wish I would've played with you rather than going on my phone when you were lying right next to me.

It was quite a ride, buddy.

Love, a new college freshman who just wants her dog to remember her