December 31, 2017

White Dog, the Army, Steve and I watched sunset and listened to The Seasons. The house smelled like home should...yummy food smells with an undertone of evergreen and rose scents. It also smelled lie puppy breaths and dried slobber on toys...like life. We were noshing,our new favorite way to celebrate holidays, at this moment sharing duck and black bean quesadillas.

It felt safe, a haven from the battering storms that passed through our lives these past twelve months. We lit the paw candles and remembered with a few tears but more smiles those who left us this year. Our matriarch, Puff, who was 19 and who left a legacy of being tough as nails right up to the end. And Anya, who stayed with us such a short time. Big Beautiful Trixie who taught us about counter surfers. Benson, my soulful caring boy. And YoYoMa, my protector.  There were lots of "remember whens..." and sharing our history with the new kids.

There was pain and loss, but there was much joy as we recognized Bailey's arrival...a counter surfer extraordinaire and a willing partner in crime for the pack. Tizenegy came from a twisted mean story but he was, as usual, not without words as we sat together and he described how full his heart is to be one of us.

We switched to shortbread cookies, the Planets, and conversation about how proud we were of each others accomplishments across the year...some tiny steps (like Bella boldly hopping up on the bed to wake us regularly)...some huge ones (Stormer trusting more and feeling less anxious). The WDA encouraged Sachi's roller coaster attempts to stay out of trouble. And applauded Steve's abilities to keep all of the balls in the air even when some are grabbed and chewed to smithereens.

Enya and potstickers saw conversation shift to the state of the world. It has been a shocking and horrible year, we agreed. White Dog reminded us to look at our efforts to make a difference and then quietly pointed out that we are not alone, so many have found their voices and have chosen to actively work to make the world better.

We have been in dark places before and we have even been where doom seemed certain. Love and hope and determination, she said, are mighty. And if we join together, those will see us through. My Girl is not a pollyanna, we all know times ARE dark and will likely hurt many before light conquers but we must not despair. "NEVER Surrender," the WDA chanted in agreement as Steve passed around sardines on rye crackers with kale and cream cheese.

During Scheherazade, we lovingly paid tribute to our many friends who walk with us and shore us up when we need it. The ones who listen, who understand, who are encouraging and supportive. We are blessed.  Steve offered this toast to them: "May each of these special members of our family know magic, courage, wisdom, and opportunity...and may the Universe guide them in using these gifts to create a bountiful world that benefits us all." 

The White Dog Army and I took a sip of whipped cream and coffee to seal the prayer. "Anyone ready for lentils..they are good luck!" 

As the clock strikes midnight, if you are still awake, so outside and look up. There is nothing that is more balancing to the soul as we face a new year and new challenges than the depth and majesty of twinkling stars and infinity. And for one still quiet moment know recharging peace.