Ulanka.  “What an odd name” I thought when I first saw you in that cage all those years ago.  It was 1 July 1988 and you were not quite 11 months old.  You were in such a sorry state but I loved you immediately and you were my best friend, especially through all the hard times. I'll never forget the way you jumped when you felt Alex move in my stomach; or how you'd wash his hair with your tongue.  I miss snuggling with you in bed at night as well as petting and hugging you.  I know Dad took good care of you for the past three years and I'm glad.  I knew you'd leave sooner or later, I just didn't expect it would be the same
week Jackson was born…  I miss you, Ya-Ya.  I ask Him every night to give you a hug and kiss and tell you I love you.  I can't wait to see you again.

Love, Mama (Laurie), Alex, Greg, Kellie, Dad, and Jackson (whom you
never met)