Carpe Diem

Little things and big ones

Yesterday the roofers came. They are a charming and very sweet group of young men. (I don’t think old men do roofing—or if they do, they probably shouldn’t.) My husband took Eli away to the lake so he didn’t terrify anyone, but Auggie and I stayed back to answer any questions. As the team arrived by ones and twos, walking up our long driveway, Auggie barked hysterically from the house. So we went out to assuage his curiosity; he on his leash, and I with a handful of dog treats. As the guys approached, I asked if they wanted to meet him, and although one initially said “no”, after he saw Auggie’s behavior, even he came to say hello and give him a treat. I shook their hands, and Auggie sat calmly beside me, ever alert, polite, but not overtly friendly—just as a good German Shepherd should be. With strangers GSDs don’t wag their tails or give effusive welcomes. They “accept a friendly stranger” as the Canine Good Citizen training handbook describes it. Only the closest family and friends are greeted with enthusiasm and wagging tails.

Having ascertained that there were people who were permitted, Auggie was fine in the house. But when the pounding of fourteen hammers ripping off the cedar shingles began, he was quiet, but stressed. So we piled into the car and went for a lovely morning walk in a neighboring community, then drove out to the lake to be with Dad and Eli. The dogs took their first dips, but were discouraged from using the dock, which awaits the attention of the carpenter first. Last fall I broke through the old section, and luckily, did not fall in.

Sunset over a broken dock

It was not an entirely happy day. A good neighbor at the lake approached me via our usual method of roadside chat, to tell me he had been diagnosed with cancer. I offered what help I could, knowing how little there is to be said, but saying it anyway. And later, a dear friend came out to see us with news that she had suddenly lost her sister over the weekend. We sat together and watched the sunset, listening, my husband and I offering what comfort we could. I think Auggie and Eli did more to console her than we ever could, insisting that she throw the ball, thrusting their big heads into her lap. showing their trust in her with their affection.

As we sat there, before the cold and mosquitoes drove us inside, a wild mink appeared along the shoreline and disappeared into a hidey hole. I would not like to see a mink vs. dog encounter, and will have to be watchful. But I have never seen a wild mink before—and was secretly delighted.

Today the roof will be finished, and we will return to the comforts of home, with bathtubs, a dishwasher, and the prospect of utterly dry dogs snuggling on the bed. But life has changed forever for people we love, and they will never be the same.

This is why we watch the sunsets, rub the dog ears, and drink the second margaritas we probably should refuse. Every moment matters. Every sunset. Every gesture of kindness. Every small pleasure.

And with that in mind, I am going out into the sunshine to make my waiting Auggie a happy dog.

Seize the day.

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It is a hard time, I know, for all of us, and we have been carrying our grief, fear, and anger around in our hearts. It is difficult to look out and see the chaos around us. But we are not the only human beings in history who have lived through trying times, and although we are required to do what is right, adversity does not require us to live in abject misery. It’s essential to remind ourselves of the good things in the world. Come and hang out with me, the dogs, and this stalwart little community of good people. If you can’t afford a paid subscription, you can still read and comment.

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Be of good cheer.

JFR

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And now for your gratuitous dog photo:

Auggie is waiting for me. He will not be disappointed. Eli will probably want to stay in the house.