May 29, 2021

White Dog poked her nose into the bedroom. "What is with all of the sighing?" she asked.

"Momma was telling me about the old days when the Army would go to the Park and have car picnics. It sounds like it was so much fun. Then Roman said it wouldn't be fun for me since I am afraid to go ANYwhere. Really, White Dog, I wish I was brave and adventurous. In my dreams I am a great explorer traipsing all over with the Army and momma and dad. But then I wake up and love feeling safe and knowing where I fit in, and I feel like there could not possibly be anyplace better than here...home."

White Dog came in and sat in front of Opal. "You owe no apologies for being comfortable at home. Bella hid under momma's chair for nearly three years. Taiko hung out in the kitchen except when he could be touching dad. YoYoMa, who was blind LOVED exploring; he walked all over town with dad and even though he sometimes stumbled he always managed to enjoy the adventures. Roman loved to go out at first and then decided that out THERE was too scary and so was wearing a leash...so now he is a homebody as well...and I think prefers it as much as you do. We have no expectations for you to go on walks or like being out in the public; you are perfect how you are. Each of us develops at our own pace and in different directions; that is one of my favorite things about the White Dog Army. So stop sighing; the sun is out and your sunbathing spot on the deck is calling you. Out!"