I'm gonna miss you Bailey.

Bailey was a mess.

(You mean... this stuffed animal isn't supposed to come apart?)

(Arg...)

But we really loved that mess.

(Wins the award for best cuddlier)

(I'll hang with the girls... forget walking in the woods!)

If you knew Bailey, you were probably afraid of him unless you came around a lot... because he acted like he was going to bite your leg off. He recognized his family, and tried to keep everyone else at a distance. But those that he let get close saw the real Bailey.

1st Christmas in Atlanta

Posing with Burke

He loved us so much, and we loved him back. I can't help but think of him every time I drop a crumb on the floor that I end up having to pick up myself because he's not here. Or not hear him bark when our neighbors are talking outside. Or not feel his warmth in the bend of my knees when we're all watching TV together on the couch. I MISS MY SWEET SWEET BAILEY.

I'm so sorry Bailey, for letting you down. I think about you all the time. I know you'll be waiting for us on the other side of the rainbow bridge. Love you boy.

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. 

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. 
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. 
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. 

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. 
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. 

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. 

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. 

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... 

Author unknown...