My Life As A Hobby

  I can’t believe that it’s been 4 years since my two dogs, Reese and Roscoe became part of my life. And as I think back on the events that brought us together, it’s hard to believe our paths even crossed. Ironically, I wasn’t there for the first meeting. My wife, son, and granddaughter were headed home from a quick spring break trip to the lake. Instead of driving back on the normal route, they decided to take a longer, scenic way. After a few miles, they spotted them on the side of a two lane highway.  A black and white pup with his brindle colored running mate. They were dirty, stinky, skittish dogs. Not a collar between them. It was obvious they had missed a few meals. One of them had a dime sized tick below her eye. Normally, curs like this elicit a collective sigh, and are forgotten by the next mile marker.  Not today.  Not when the black and white one could have been the brother of my beloved, departed bird dog, Precious. Rilynne, being the brash, insightful, ...

I tried to be patient, but the tension was building. My stomach felt like I had just eaten a supersized breakfast burrito. I knew the feeling - it’s because when I pulled up to the gas pump, I discovered I didn’t have my wallet. I normally keep it in my console; or if I take in the house,  I put it on the dresser.  When I couldn’t find it after a thorough examination of the truck, it was time to call home.  Foregoing any pleasantries, I said, Hey, do me a favor. Can you see if my wallet’s on the dresser?” “Let me check.” After a moment she returned.  “No it isn’t. Where did you have it last?” “Well, if I knew that, I wouldn’t be calling you,” I thought to myself.  I wisely let that statement slide  because I needed help. Instead, I said, “Can you take a look around and call me back?” While I was waiting on the return call, my mind began waging war with itself. The sensible part of me was saying,” Chill out. It’s around. Just stay calm.” Meanwhile, The Other...