Lessons I learned from my dog Alfie:

1. Never underestimate the comedic impact of a well-timed burp
2. Don't be afraid to get your hair wet when you swim
3. Don't be afraid of anything
4. If you beg long enough, and never give up, you'll eventually get what you want
5. Nobody is a stranger
6. It feels really good to sit still, nose in the air, face tilted towards the sun and let its rays warm you
7. Belly rubs are awesome
8. Never hold a grudge
9. When someone is sad, you don't have to say anything, just sit as close as possible and don't complain when they drench your fur with tears
10. Chipmunks are jerks
11. Never be stingy with kisses
12. Bounding with joy for no reason every now and then is good for the soul
13. Love unabashedly, unreservedly, unconditionally...and never ever stop

Thank you for being the best friend, the best teacher, the best cheerleader a girl could ever ask for. I love you, buddy.