[bob]

One final post for me on this. Again, thanks for all the thoughts and advice.

We told our daughters last night and you can imagine that they were very upset. We took Delta for ice cream (her typical birthday treat) and a very short family walk. I then moved multiple mattresses into the living room so we could all sleep with her, and spent the night telling Delta stories and singing her songs. In time, I think we will all look back fondly on that night as a great memory. During the course of the night, Delta snuggled with each member of the family.

My daughters decided that they couldn't bear to be there at the vet, so they went to school. I was ok with the decision since it was their's. My wife and I spent the morning with Delta, then took her for one final walk at a park near the vet that we used to walk her at before we got married. Pure grit got her through that 1/4th mile.

Then on to the vet, where she did pass peacefully.

Delta, you were the best dog a man could ask for! I'll see you at the Rainbow Bridge.