As the end of my two weeks on the Cape approached, I found myself feeling sentimental about this very special place. This particular house, in the woods of Wellfleet, is my ideal version of a summer vacation property with its three floors (each with its own bedroom and bath) stacked on top of one another on a small footprint overlooking what I’ve come to think of as “our” pond.
I should clarify that when I say “ ours,” I’m referring to mine and Jeter’s. He has been the one consistent attendee on this vacation each year, a fact that makes the eventuality of his not making the trip very difficult for me to imagine.
It’s been a tough few months for my old lab as the years seem to have caught up to the playful pup my sons and I originally brought home more than a dozen years ago. He’s doing ok for a senior, but I can see the increased effort it takes at times for him to climb stairs and hear the heavy panting that seems to come without much exertion. Lumps, bumps and warts have appeared on his previously flawless coat, a situation which I consistently remind him is due to his lifelong and exceptional handsomeness.
He still looks beautiful to me.
I’ve learned so much from this good boy and will love him forever. It doesn’t matter how many blankets he shredded or lamps he broke or snacks from the counter he helped himself to over the years. He’ll always be my sweet boy and I hope that what I’ve taught him comes even close to reaching the number of things I’ve learned from him.
Like –
- Find a comfortable spot and own it.
- Love your favorite people without shame.
- Leap while you can. When launching one’s self becomes too difficult, it’s absolutely fine to ease in instead.
- Nap.
- When running becomes too challenging, walking is an excellent option.
- Dig your heels in and refuse to do things you are disinterested in doing.
- Trust your closest humans and know that they will look out for you, no matter what happens.
We got home yesterday afternoon and Rocco the cat was happy to see us – or at least as happy as a cat will ever indicate. I didn’t sleep well. After two weeks of nights interrupted only by the sounds of nature, my city house was noisy with traffic noises and nearby neighbors.
Jeter was particularly pant-y last night until he found some comfort on the cool floor and quieted. On my way back to bed, after my usual middle of the night visit to the bathroom, I got down on the floor next to him to give him a pat and a kiss on his head. He received both with a sigh and tail thump.
Let’s take a walk, Jeter. I know the ponds and the ocean beach are far away now, but there are still plenty of things to sniff and explore. Speaking of sniffing, a bath is on today’s agenda. I’ll wash the pond scent off of your fur, but the wonderful pond memories aren’t going anywhere and will always be ours, buddy.
xoxo
