Again I am so thankful for my Zoe. In the mornings like this I really like to just sit in the morning sunlight in the living room and enjoy the quiet. She was just laying on the floor next to me for a little while. Before that she was playing with the cat. Now she’s grabbed a toy and is stretched out on the floor chewing it. She just jumped up on the couch with it so she can look out the window - with the toy still in her mouth. She’s such a good dog, so happy to just be near you and occupy herself. And I so appreciate that.

I am simply not a high-energy kind of person, I get easily overwhelmed and stressed and anxious. I wish I wasn’t, but it’s very much who I am - I’ve dealt with anxiety and depression for many years. Oreo was so great during those many years - she was my buddy, my reason for getting up in the morning. She never demanded, but how could I deny her sweet, sad expression of hope that we would go to the park? Oreo was always there when I needed someone beside me, nights when I felt so sad and alone. Oreo’s happiness became my happiness.

And now I have Zoe. Zoe’s a very different kind of dog in many ways - so much more spunk and much more passionate about life. As opposed to Oreo’s soulful, questioning eyes, Zoe’s are much brighter and more joyful. Zoe has complete faith and trust in me, it’s like she never gets sad. I can’t tell you how many times her silly antics and zest for life has cheered me up, made me laugh. She’s taught me a lot about life.

I’m not really a very spiritual person at all. But I really do believe that Oreo and Zoe came into my life for a reason. I am so very grateful for both of them.