Yesterday I said goodbye to a special friend who made me laugh and reminded me of the beauty in life. Her name was Chilli... Chilli Chicken.

Chilli was super funny. She had spunk. She would chase cockatoos, pin them down and pluck out their feathers. She even muscled her way around Bellie - our rather large great dane dog - to successfully steal her food. She had balls! She was so much bigger than her size. I loved that.

Every morning she would be waiting eager to be the first one let out of the chook pen. Proudly leading her tribe behind her. Head chook. Leader of the pack. She was the first to greet you each time you walked out the house or arrived home and was always interested in a treat or two.

Then recently we noticed she wasn't following us as quickly as she use to. She was lagging behind the pack and moving much slower. A trip to the vet, a little de-worming and we thought that would do the trick. She picked up a little. But not for long.

Our beautiful girl slowed right down this week. Not moving much, resting and preparing for the change to take place. I spent most afternoons with her, singing, chatting away and wishing so hard that she would choose to stay in our lives. Such a sweet girl she was. I knew deep down that her time was nearing the end. I fought this feeling. I wanted her to stay. To continue to make me laugh, to play, to chase and follow us around the place... chattering away.

She passed away yesterday afternoon, she hung on until we got home for one last goodbye. I held her wrapped in a blanket and sang to her watching the sunset. You will be forever in our sunsets and our hearts beautiful Chilli.

And I know this is not the end. It is a new beginning for you. And when I connect in... I still feel her warmth around.

Tears flow full of love. I miss our beautiful girl. She taught me strength, spunk and compassion.

This post is dedicated to you beautiful Chilli. May you enjoy many treats, wriggly worms and dirt baths in your new world. Love you.