You've been gone a day now. After 25 years I've spent a day in a world where you aren't here. It's strange and it's sad. I'm sorry this is the last photo that will ever be of you. It feels like there should have been so many more.

I know this last year was hard and I'm so sorry. I'm sorry that things were so different after your stroke. But somehow you were still you. Somehow, despite whatever was thrown your way, you'd still whistle to me in the morning.

I felt compelled to share that song of yours with the world. You were too much hope in one ball of feathers and I could never keep you to myself. Not even when I was a kid and brought you in for show and tell.

You were the light for so many of my darkest days and I just wanted everyone to see your brightness. And they did. You made so many friends and did so many things in your time. Yet somehow I don't think it'll ever feel like enough.

Some foolish part of me almost thought this day would never come. I had more time than most to prepare, and yet I still I am so wounded. And what can I say? What words would work? There's nothing big enough to describe what I feel at the loss of you.

I got you when I was 4 and now I am 30. Once, when I was 10 you flew away, but we found you. The neighbor said to me, "you are one lucky little girl." And I was. I was so lucky to know you. So fortunate to grow up with you. I know my life would not be the same without you.

I feel heavier without your wings. It will be okay. I mourn the memories I won't make with you, but I celebrate the ones we already have. Because I'm also lucky in another way. I'm lucky for all those who have grown to know and love you. You will live on.

I give you and your memory to everyone reading this. To everyone who has ever told me just seeing you helped them get through the day. To everyone your boundless hope has reached. You will never truly die. I know this without a doubt.

Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being here. Thank you for growing up with me. Thank you for all you were and continue to be.

We'll keep going, Pepper. We'll be here, even if hearts break for you tonight, little bird. We gotta keep going for you. I love you.

No pressure at all, but the vet fund has now taken a couple hits. If anyone was interested in donating, I'd be so grateful. http://PayPal.me/pepperandpals 

Thank you, everyone