In the winter woods on Christmas Day 2024;(health, companionship, beauty)

The snow came in hard yesterday while I was snowshoeing and the dogs were running wild in the winter woods. On the way back down the pass there were two drivers that misjudged the conditions and slid out on the curves, right through the snow embankments and into the guard rails. I was happy to go slow and steady (and safe). Getting up over the pass on the north side I had the truck in four wheel drive.

What a peak experience that was though, to be snowshoeing through such beautiful tall spruce and fir on Christmas Day, with snow coming down. It was what could be called a ‘heart day’, that I will always remember.

I am lucky to have a simple life with these border collies. That is why I do as much as I can - eat right, no alcohol, exercise, to be able to live strong and healthy for as long as possible.

There is no doubt that dogs like mine sustain a person at the end of life, through the lonesome and solitude.