a couple days ago, we had to say goodbye to the second biggest bitch in our home.

tensley, our fearless, feisty, and forever loyal companion, finally gave in after 16.5 years of barking at everyone and everything that dared cross her path. from the moment she was born, she made her intentions clear-crawling right into my husband’s arms and declaring him hers. from that day on, she never left his side, ensuring everyone knew who was boss (even if she only weighed 12 pounds).

turns out, my husband has a type when it comes to small, loud, and unapologetically opinionated females, and tensley was the perfect match. she took her job seriously—no mailman, squirrel, or stray leaf stood a chance under her watch. if it moved, tensley barked at it, and if it didn’t move, well, she barked at that too, just to be safe. the neighbors will certainly miss the soundtrack she provided.

her loyalty was unmatched-tensley was glued to my husband’s side like a shadow (with a loudspeaker). as we say goodbye, we know the house will never be the same without her fierce presence. though it’s quieter now, it’s not necessarily for the better. tensley’s absence leaves a gaping hole, especially where her constant bark used to be. she was a tiny bundle of chaos.

rest in peace, sweet girl. the house is quieter, but our hearts are loud with memories of you.