I have a dog. Her name is Stormy. She’s a Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie.) We took her into our home as a rescue dog a little over a year ago.

Winter Sunshine

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After a week of decent weather, we’re back in the freezer in Minnesota (which may no longer be true when you read this posting – I bank the generic ones for a while sometimes.) So, it’s 12 degrees and my little friend just spent a full half-hour outside running around in the cold sunshine. It’s lots warmer than the cold shadows – you feel the difference the instant you pass into the penumbra.

So, back to the picture/story. I had finished doing the dishes, grabbed my coffee and plopped down on couch. She hopped up next to me (unthinkable just a few months ago) and came over to give me a sniff. I returned the favor and was rewarded with Winter Sunshine On Clean Fur. I wish I could bottle that scent. Dog owners in the northern climes would buy a big bottle of it and save it for years after their friends have passed away. It’s exactly what the words say, and it evokes a visceral response that I cherish. I bury my nose in her neck like some kind of scent vampire and inhale deeply.

Her good smell, relaxed response, and my satisfaction at making her life easier, all contribute to a rush of endorphin that makes me temporarily blind. I close my eyes and remember old friends who have gone on ahead. Friends with whiskers, poopy butts, limpy legs, and gentle souls. Friends who never spoke a word of English but captured my heart with their soulful eyes. Friends who now sit next to me on the couch without taking any space at all. Friends who have taken this current ball of fur into their company and let her know that it’s okay to hang up the anxieties for a minute and just be loved.

She flops down next to me and nibbles the bolster on the couch, her scent pervading the room. All too soon that will be gone as well. She’s not a kid. But I am so glad to have her in this moment.

Pardon me, I have to go stretch out next to her and rub that white chest. We both need it.

Have a blessed day. I hope it’s filled with Winter Sunshine for you as well.