Marsh Staring

  I am not sure what is up with the old dog, Mr. PJ.  For the past few months, he has had one ailment after another and has given me reason to believe that his time was near on several occasions.  One time, in particular, was worrisome but after a quick visit to the pet ER, he seemed to rebound a bit.  His health worries trouble me but equally as troubling are some of his moods.  He seems down...sad...lonely even though, both Son and I dote on him daily.  He sleeps next to my bed, hovers next to me while I do chores and gets lots of petting and hugs, yet, somehow, he seems to think something is askew.

  Our hikes have been shortened to slow walks for him to do his business.  Even then, I usually have to help him back to the house.  He does, however, want to linger at one spot each day.  Down by the marsh edge, he sits and stares into the brambles.  I cannot see a thing that is appealing in this tangle of marsh, vines and brush.  He must, however, as he will linger here for a good half hour, if I allow it...and I usually do.  It makes him happy and gives him a short rest before continuing back up the hillside. 

  What is he staring at?  Why this one spot?  What is going through his mind?  Something Son noticed may bring light to the situation.  Maybe memories are here, at least in PJ's mind.  Directly across the Bayou from this spot, there is a new home and the family has small children.  Occasionally, their chattering and laughter can be heard echoing across the marsh.  Perhaps, Mr. PJ is reminiscing about "his" children?  Since I am fostering the old dog for my son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren while they are living on an island far from here, I do believe he misses the children more than anything.  Those voices and giggles may trigger a happy memory and he associates it with this particular spot?  Who knows?  But, if it makes him feel better, then we shall sit and stare into the marsh together.  I'm good with it.