Saying Goodbye to an old friend

Well when I say old friend we only met at my Summer birthday party, introduced by a really lovely family who are welcome back at any time.
I carefully kept Harris away from visitors and tried to only mix with him on special occasions. I obviously have had a lot of special occasions in the last few months as he has now totally gone.
I have discussed my loss with various people and tried to link it with the fast approaching Christmas season. I pointed out the phrase "its better to give than receive" and explained how I could make them feel much better about themselves. 
I wait in hope