We shared the sad news on Instagram Stories last week and wanted to make sure to post it here as well, because Burger was such an important part of our lives and this blog. Last Monday our sweet chihuahua Burger passed away at the age of 15. He lived a long, loving life and we miss him deeply — the house feels far too quiet without his little presence.
We brought Burger into our lives when we were 24 — before marriage, before the blog, before kids, before so many of the adult milestones we experienced together. He was there through all of it, a steady and joyful companion who filled our days with laughter and small rituals.
Burger was always a happy little guy with a big personality. He slipped away peacefully in his sleep, which feels like a gentle gift. Six years ago he was diagnosed with a severe heart murmur and yet he kept defying expectations for years after that diagnosis — a reminder of how stubbornly wonderful pets can be.
We didn’t have a long warning. He was here one Monday morning and gone around 1 p.m. It still feels unreal. There are so many small things we long for — one more snuggle, one more moment of rescuing something silly off his nose, the little ways he made everyday life brighter.
He made us laugh constantly — and oh, how he hated costumes. That battle alone produced countless memories and photos that will make us smile for years to come.
He had his signature quirks — like what we called his “foot phone” — and an enthusiastic love of pup cups and sun spots. We even took him on our honeymoon to Alaska, and he joined us on seasonal trips to Florida where he loved floating with John in the rental pool. Those trips became a tradition: lounging, watching the world go by, and dreaming of a future of sunny afternoons by a pool.
We celebrated every birthday and savored every year we had with him. He was small, but he occupied the whole house in the best way — a constant presence that made ordinary moments feel fuller. Every vet who met Burger fell for him, and the team who cared for him last Monday were kind and reassuring, saying he had been a favorite at the office. Hearing that felt comforting in a time of loss.
Our children have known nothing but Burger as part of their lives. He quietly handled the crumbs after every meal — our little Roomba — and was always ready to be a part of family routines. He loved the new kitchen porch and would stand under the table, eyes bright and hopeful, whenever we sat down to eat.
He enjoyed the little luxuries: sunbeams on the deck, the finished pool at home, and being held like a baby on the front porch — a special spot where he always fell asleep in my arms. Those quiet afternoons are images I’ll carry with me.
We’re thankful for every photo, every silly tradition, every small and big moment he gave us. His face in those pictures — that unmistakable Burger smile — will always be a part of our home and our hearts. He had a way of making ordinary life feel a little bit magical.
Thank you to everyone who has loved Burger through the screen all these years. Your kind messages and memories have meant a great deal to our family. To those navigating pet loss: be gentle with yourselves. Losing a pet is losing a family member, and grief takes time.
As a small tribute, we’re planting a tree in a spot Burger loved to sniff and, yes, sometimes pee. It feels fitting — a living memorial where we can visit and remember all the sunny naps, swims, and snuggles. We’ll keep celebrating the joy he brought into our lives and hold onto the love he taught us in so many quiet ways.
We will love you forever, Burger. Thank you for everything.
