We brought Ondine home a year ago today. I've had many fine dogs in my life. Frosty was one of the noblest spirits I've ever known. Juniper, the most courageous. Nisa and Ciara, the sweetest. And now, as I approach a half century, I've been blessed with one of the best friends I've ever had, far and away the most interesting creature I've ever known.
One of the chords she strikes with me is how hard she tries to communicate - not only to listen, but to make her own thoughts heard. It's a deeper conversation than I've had with, well, anyone. She's teaching me to watch and listen.
She came along at a time when I really needed a friend, and I hope she sticks around a good long time.
