A good friend is preparing to say goodbye to Skye, his dog of many years, many adventures, many miles. To know her was to love her. I’ll not forget seeing her in full adventure gear, haltered into the passenger seat of Patrick’s open-sided Jeep, goggles in place, grinning like there was no better moment.

Over the past year she has soldiered through a terminal cancer, and her battle will end on Tuesday. Pat left enough time for her friends to be able to have a last visit, warm hugs, and say goodbye. Pat and Skye have been the perfect pair; neither could have asked for a better companion.

Nor, clearly could you.