Chica (aka Nater)-8 lbs of feisty spunk, deep sensitivity and tremendous love. Never in a million years did I ever consider owning a chihuahua, but dramatic family circumstances brought her to us and I will always count my husband and I as lucky to have had her in our lives. There are a million memories and stories I could share, but I want to honor her with heart-felt gratitude for being such an amazing friend, travel companion, listener and teacher. We all have those pets that touch our hearts more than others; they feel like a part of us. Looking back, I'm not sure when this happened, but somewhere along the 15 years of our time together, she and I merged on a heart-level. And, in so doing, she taught me two big lessons: love myself and learn to accept what I cannot change. She also made it clear that even the biggest a-holes in our lives have a part of them that is worthy of a dog's affection. My god, I miss this little dog so much. Someday I will not cry when I speak of her wonderful self, though I am at least glad to say that the tears aren't of raw painful despair anymore. They are tears of gratitude and yes, occasional loneliness. Being in the presence of such a huge heart leaves a noticeable vacuum when it is gone and I find myself just trying to catch my breath every day without her. I love you, Stinker Bean. -Mama