A Friendly Face

  It has been over a year since Ms. Ez left us.  Not having a dog has seemed strange in so many ways but I am still not ready to adopt another.  Several times, I admit, that I came close...so close but for some reason, it just never felt right.  Ms. Ez was such a big part of my life that her passing left a void that will not easily (if ever) be filled.  

  For the past few days as the family has gathered at the old homestead,  I have had the comfort of the friendship of another dog.  My son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren are here and have brought their dog, PJ.  He is a sweet old dog who was best friends with Ms. Ez.  They would romp together in the yard, snooze in the sun on the pier and chase every squirrel on the hill.  Time and distance could not tear them apart! Now, he is bringing comfort to me.  I happily let him sleep beside my bed or snooze on my feet as I sit in the rocking chair.  It feels right...not that I want another...but this just feels right.  Perhaps this is because PJ and Ez spent so much time together or perhaps is merely because I know this dog about as well as I did Ez.  Whatever the case, being able to reach down and pet him has made the holidays that much better.

  Thanks, PJ.  You are a good friend, indeed.