The other thing that made today special is that we went on our first walk, which was normal. Everything was perfect. I couldn’t help but think of Christopher Robin ‘the cold’s so cold, and the hot’s so hot.’ Only in this case, the sun was so cool and the wind so warm, it was sublime. I ran and dashed about the place like there was no tomorrow. At one point, Sarah was walking so slowly, I barged past her and dashed up the side of the field as the wind chased me up the hill. I felt like a puppy once more.

It would be lovely to think that each day in the coming weeks will be so heavenly, but I know they won’t be. Before long I shall be belly deep in mud and my paws will have burs sticking to them, and I’ll have to be showered in the garden, but you know what, I really don’t mind. It’s wonderful when the two of us go out. We rub along, shoulder to shoulder –maybe shoulder to knee would be more accurate– but our hearts aligned as we trotted along enjoying nature and the elements. That quiet companionship is worth its weight in gold and as I sleep on my cushion in front of the fire tonight, I shall dream of it… and of Elvis.