Dear friend,
I will start by saying that I’m a DOG. Nothing less, hopefully something more. “Every pup takes a dump” — an ancient saying from easier times, when self-worth was a natural skill and came free with your birth certificate. We all had it, and life felt like a walk in the park. These days, you pay for multiple subscriptions to feel decent.

Straight to the core, but with a slight loss of focus here and there: I’m turning 17, and I know for a fact, you all are freaking out. I do too. 17? I can’t comprehend that. What do I do with that number? Is it a moment for self-reflection, with room for a cheeky little crisis?

Doesn’t sound so chill? Well, I can’t think of a single moment, when double-digits brought a sense of relief to anyone. Honestly, any digits. Numbers are inconsistent in their meaning. So why should we be?


Anyway, I’m getting older on September 21(1), and I hope to celebrate my rather lengthy existence with another Richi Calendar — TIMELESS Edition. Previously, I’ve shared private photos, asked friends to contribute their methods for “keeping it together,” or simply talked nonsense on my behalf.

(1). I know, it’s May, and I’m getting ahead of myself, but that's the kind of thing you do when you’re 17. Both as a dog and a teen. Also, I can’t think of a better thing to do on a Friday afternoon than writing this letter.

This year, I want to do another communal thing — asking everyone I’ve ever sniffed to share their favorite photos or stories of me. I’d love your input, whether it’s text, images, or even damn numbers — printed next to my usual crap rant.

I did all I could to keep this a simple, non-conceptual assignment.

_________________________________

The submission deadline is July 13, 2025. Email Dee— my unpaid volunteer, with the subject line: “RICHI 2026” (for everyone’s OCD).You’ll do great.

Love,

Richi the Dog
May 23, 2025