A Boy and His Dog

       For the past couple of days the two youngest grandchildren have been visiting with us. 
     Following the death of their old dog, it was initially decided that they would not have another one, but somewhere along the way that resolve evaporated and so it was that Marty came into the family - and came to visit Grandma and Grandpa too.

     It is not hard to figure out that this little guy would work his way into your heart pretty quickly, and he is as affectionate as he is good looking.
     This is a family pet, but there is not a shred of doubt that it is "Eddie's dog." 

     

     
     The way that these two have bonded is really quite remarkable and Marty hangs on Eddie's every word, and stays close to him. Even when Eddie goes to the bathroom, Marty lies outside the door waiting for Eddie to come out.
     As I watched these two together, and saw the obvious joy Marty derived from being with Eddie, I could not help reflecting that at one time it was verging on heresy to ascribe emotions to non human animals. If anyone has any doubt that animals experience feelings in the same way we do, they need do nothing more than watch a devoted dog interact with a devoted human. Reactions of joy are engendered by the same triggers that apply to humans, and sadness and disappointment are equally clear.

     Like a child exploring a new area for the first time, Marty enjoyed getting to know every part of the back yard.

     It wouldn't be a visit to Grandma without having her make something, and this time it was a pillow with a blanket for Marty. Lest anyone think he didn't like it, take a look at this picture shortly after it was placed on the floor.

      I always think that in life there are certain pairings that go together perfectly and should not be tampered with - wine and cheese, bacon and eggs, baked potato and butter.. ....
      Maybe it's time to add a boy and his dog.

  
     What could be more perfect than that?