What a long day. I’m beyond exhausted.

Even on days like today, there is still so much to be grateful for. My kids’ hearts are broken tonight, and as a mother, I can’t even explain what that does to mine.

But I also know they’ve been given something so many people never experience: the unconditional love of a dog. The memories they made with Bowser are something they’ll carry with them forever. One day they’ll look back on their childhood and remember the little Yorkie who loved them so faithfully, and I hope those memories will bring them comfort instead of tears.

Before bed tonight, I told them something I hope they never forget: don’t let this pain keep you from loving another animal. Love them anyway. Open your heart again. I made them both promise that one day, when they have children of their own, they’ll make sure those children get to experience the kind of love they were lucky enough to know with Bowser, Clementine, and now Rusty.

We are a family that loves dogs. They have never just been pets to us. They are family, and they always will be.

Thank you to everyone who has called, texted, prayed for us, and loved on our family these past few days. Your kindness has meant more than you’ll ever know. ❤️