The Men Are Bonding.

 Bob and Maxi going for walks.

Bob's on leave. A nice six weeks off from work and a fabulous time for him to recharge. In a way it is a good thing that we are still in a lockdown. Staying home is mandated and what better way to unwind than to be at home.

Being at home during one's leave has a few hardships...wearing sweats all day long, reading books, staying up late or not and of course a long daily walk. My invention and contribution to Bob's leave. One long walk in the morning and at least the body is geared for the day and keeps the diabetes at bay. Honestly, I thought when I did suggest it to Bob that he would veto it but, far from it. From the first day of his leave he has joined me on the long morning perambulations. 

A village is a curious entity. When we set off for our walk the light is still a bit diffuse and the curtains and shutters seems to be closed. Yet, the other day we ran into a villager in the afternoon and she knew exactly that Bob had been walking with me every day....I spy with my little eye...

Maxi adores Bob and Bob can't walk past Maxi without giving him a cuddle. The other day I suggested to Bob that Maxi would love to be taken out for his late evening pippi break by him and, he didn't demur but gladly took Maxi outside. Remember, taking him outside takes some preparations. Harness, poo-bag ( just in case ), torch and winter coat. All the stuff one doesn't feel like doing when one is comfortably established in front of the telly. At first he asked me to put all the goodies on Maxi, but now he is a whiz at it and likes nothing better than to take the boy outside. Truth be told I think that the boy invents extra pippi emergencies in order to be taken outside by Bob! Clever little minx.

Dogs have that special magic about them, regardless of size, age and type. Life takes on a different meaning and how could it not when a little soul is reliant on one? Especially an older blind dog can teach us so much. Patience, gratitude, routine and the importance of daily walks!

Biggi