Ursula and I have now live in Ventura, California where I work for Patagonia. She must be around twelve years old now, but she still enjoys her walks on the beach or around the neighborhood. I just bought an old Craftsman house and my new neighbors have come to know the familiar sight of Ursula surveying the street from the front porch. She lies there quietly watching the world go by and keeps an eye on me as I scrape paint and work in the garden. People are curious to meet my large, pretty dog and she still charms them with her affections.

For the six years that we've been together, Ursula has been my faithful companion. It's been very satisfying to see her heal and feel more confident. Unknowingly, she has taught me about responsibility and commitment. But the most precious thing she's given me is the understanding of unconditional love.

Sometime in her twelfth year, my quiet, constant companion was diagnosed with bone cancer after I noticed a swelling in her rear leg. The vets and I agreed that treatment would be too invasive for her advanced age and focused on managing her pain. On one of her last days, I took her to the beach so she could wade in the surf ­ she was still smiling. She let me know when it was time for her to go by retreating into the closet one night. I have a wonderful vet in Ventura who will make house calls and had arranged that she would be available when I needed her. I held Ursula in my arms, played her some beautiful Irish music, and felt her drift off to a more peaceful place.

Always thinking of you dear Ursula.