I've got a new work buddy. His name is Mr. Darcy. I lost Merlin back in May, and I've been traveling too much to be able to adopt a new dog. I had planned to wait until the middle of fall, but I'm a fan of the Friends of the Memphis Animal Shelter on Facebook, and they post photos of adoptable dogs. I got lured out, and I fell in love. He's about a three year old boxer mix who weighs 80 pounds. He was so calm and dignified, and he just sat quietly next to me on the sidewalk as we got acquainted. He's going to be an easygoing companion to take out when I go painting.

My life feels so much better, just immediately. I can walk through the Old Forest every morning. I'll go with a companion -- Dad, girlfriend, or dog -- but not all on my own. And I love walking in the forest every day. I've been walking the golf course part of the park regularly for some years now, ever since Merlin got too gimpy to go, and I'm delighted to be back in the actual forest.

Mr. Darcy also keeps me company while I work at home on my own. Below on the right is my view just now, looking down at him from my chair by the computer. And I get a marvelous greeting when I come home. Rescue dogs are so loving.