Shots of Joy
First off, I’d lie to offer my deepest condolences to my brother, Katie, Nora, and Ruby for their loss of Sophie. Soph, my almost 14 year old 4 legged Golden niece and Clooney were the quintessential old married couple. When Andy and I lived together for a short time, I usually awoke blanketed by over a hundred pounds of furry warmth in a Sophie/Clooney blanket! Of course, I loved the company and substantial savings on heating costs…
This cool Sunday morning began at about 4:15 with Cloons’ wake up whimpers initiating our daily routine: I negotiate with him for a few more minutes before finally acquiescing and leave my warm bed to feed him. After a short walk, I sit down to enjoy my coffee, a morning reading, and quiet time at the kitchen table. Then, as if on cue, Clooney’s second round of moans begin to alert me that he isn’t done with his morning inspection of Portsmouth’s North End. While I can’t say that I’m overjoyed by this almost daily routine with King Cloon, with Soph’s passing and a noticeable drop in Clooney’s top speed of late, I find myself filled with gratitude being led around town by my 14 year old master this morning!
About a week ago as I stroked Clooney’s ears in an attempt to get a few more minutes of shuteye one morning, I felt an almost egg-sized fluid pouch near the lobe’s soft tip. After our morning routine, I jumped on the computer to do a little research before a frantic trip to the Vet ER. Remembering a panicked wake up to my then puppy’s swollen eyebrow from what I was informed was the result of an insect’s bite/sting that proved a quite costly dose of Benadryl; I decided to call my vet for some advice instead of venturing to the ER. After being calmed to know the Hematoma was common and to monitor it for a few days before seeking examination, I settled down with a deeper appreciation for Cloon’s presence. So where is this early morning ramble going you ask?
Well on our second trip outside this AM, we were met by one of Portsmouth’s friendly DPW workers on their drive through town who stopped to chat. As the kind woman rolled down the window, with Clooney getting excited in anticipation of a treat; she said, “Good morning Jimmy and Cloney!” I wish my memory allowed me to remember her name, but it will have to be the kind woman in the white Ford 150 with Portsmouth’s shield on the door! Regardless of my faulty memory or being in a haze on most morning strolls with King C, the point was clear to me from this women’s kind and enthusiastic greeting. Just like they do with me, whether it be Sophie, Clooney, or even a memorable dog in market square; our canine companions bring shots of joy to us humans lives’…even if it is 4:30 in the morning!