I can’t think of a more perfect cure for the blues than spending time with a dog. Though I suppose it depends on the dog. For me, there is nothing more heartwarming than the company of a Labrador.
Since Wednesday, I have been on Muffin duty. Henk and Anita needed to head back to the Netherlands for a spell and asked me to watch Muffin while they were gone. It worked out that it would be right after Jason left. And I have to say, while packing up again to stay in yet another location isn’t the most fun thing in the world, the distraction of a jolly, somewhat mellow chocolate lab has been a panacea. It’s always hard after Jay leaves, and jumping right into walks, feeding, cuddles, and general elderly dog management has certainly helped keep me and my mind occupied. Muffin is a pretty special older lady, and she’s got pep and tons of love to give.
Good thing too—I don’t know what happened, but we went from crazy warm summer to mid-autumn weather in an instant. Everyone is talking about it. I read there hasn’t been this cold weather in early September since the 70’s. John, who’s lived here for 30 years, says he’s never seen anything like it. I’m thoroughly depressed about it. Perhaps that’s overstating it a touch. The Mistral has been insane, which is why it’s cooled down so much. And while I’ve been forcing myself out on the bike, the idea that I might not get another chance to go out with shorts and a tank top and be hot is unbearable. Last year we had +30 temps until mid-October. I was seriously hoping for a repeat, but it’s not looking that way.
I mean, it’s still beautiful and the sun is still hot, but the pool is now quite chilly, it’s definitely more like medicinal therapy to get in than enjoyment.
So, thank goodness for Muffin. She is pretty much deaf and blind with some serious bad breath, but she has endless love to give, and her antics make me laugh out loud. I love coming back from a ride to see her excited wiggle. She helps make this early autumn weather and Jay’s departure all the more bearable. I’m inches away from getting a lab of my own again… I can feel it.
