puppy love

... a dog can never tell you what she knows from the

smell of the world, but you know, watching her, that you know

almost nothing...

— Mary Oliver

from the poem "her grave"

I love our two dogs.  Freja, the labrador, steals food, doesn't come when called, and can't walk properly on a leash. Kajsa, the hound mix, is terrified of everything, especially fireworks, thunder, and hot air balloons. With all their faults, there is something honest and unconditional about dogs, their devotion, endearment, and companionship. I can't imagine life without them. Charlottesville is covered in ice and snow today. School is closed and we are all, including the pups, setting up camp in front of the wood stove. Lovely...