Special Moment

When mankind shares its existence with canines, there are special moments that arrive, both precious and candid, which always appears sporadic, as well as unexpected. They bring smiles, laughter, sometimes tears of pure bliss. Moments like these can add sunshine to any day, whether eventful or mundane. One afternoon Rose was missing her favorite man.... Dad. She had disappeared in our house--never a positive thing--for this usually means my dog is being naughty. I searched every room, all the "off limits" locations, her bed....nothing!! Finally, I stepped foot in Dad's study, vacant due to his absence. And there she was, snooping vigorously under his desk, bewildered, apparently wondering where he went!! Another time Rose held her head high, sniffing the air in my room. And it swiftly occurred to me what that "hound" nose had been detecting: Our late crossbreed, Shadow Sunshine's collar sits displayed upon a bookshelf. When I press it against my nostrils, Shadow's odor remains evident. And Rose is part Beagle!! Imagine the thoughts which most likely ran through her canine brain as she attempted to discern where that dog scent was coming from, who it is and why they cannot meet!! Moments like those are obviously emotional, yet bittersweet. One Sunday morning, I was battling a chest cold and suffering from an asthma attack. Multi-tasking, I coughed hard to "unclog" my airwaves while stroking Rose's silky-soft fur. Suddenly, without warning, she placed her front paws upon my lap. Gazing up at my face was the most concerned eyes I have ever witnessed in any canine. I had been struggling to breathe, and here was this amazing friend showing genuine worry toward me!! It touched my heart in more ways than one. That is a special moment. Precious, candid, sporadic, unexpected. A moment when just this once, I'll pardon jumping up.