ODE TO OUR BRINDLE BUDDY - March 15, 2018

Snow snakes slither across the highway chased by a wind that cuts to the bone as we journey back into the land of snow and ice. The barometric pressure is high and stable, and the temperature is -7C, but the wind chill brings it down to -20C. Even though the sun warms me through the glass, my body has begun to complain. For the three months, I've hidden from winter on the west coast. I had almost no pain. and how easy it is when pain-free to forget what it feels like when every part of you hurts and every thing you do is so much more difficult. The only other time I am pain-free is when I am in the water.

However, a consolation has come into my life in the form of a little brindle-coloured French bulldog. He needed a home with people who had time to work on his problem behaviours, and though I didn't know it when I asked to have him join us on the road, we need him.

Thank you, Brindle Buddy,

For sitting with me when I am alone.

For traveling tucked in on my sore hip like a draft stop, your warmth a comfort to me.

For sleeping curled in the curve of my back, the pressure of your sturdy body reducing the constant ache from my kidneys.

For sitting on my arthritic feet to warm my toes and ankles, and for allowing me to stretch my toes by running them over the contours of your muscular body.

For always being near to fondle and pet so that the numbness in my hands is kept at bay.

For getting me outside to go for walks and for not minding that sometimes our walks are short.

For being sturdy enough to help me to my feet when I fall.

For bringing Carl to me when I am sick in the night.

But thank you most for your antics; Chasing the treat ball,
Watching for animals as we drive,
Itching yourself on the rug,
Racing hares and mountain sheep,
Snoring and hogging the bed,
Chasing balls you don't return.
Kissing us to see what we've eaten.

You keep Carl and I on our toes and always laughing.

I am so grateful that your pot poisoning didn't take you from us.