This week the house was filled with love and joy as the newest member of the Homestead turned two. Pilot has just recently joined the family earlier this spring as a rescue pup. Since becoming my trusted companion I have learned so much from Pilot, including; paying attention to the little things, always having energy for one more walk, and appreciating time to rest.

I’m going to take this time to share what it has been like having a four legged best friend. Since the moment we met, he and I have known we were met to be. From his first kisses to his endless desire for activities and belly rubs we have been in sync. I remember just how hot it was the day I drove over two hours to go meet him, at that time his name was “Cricket” unbeknownst to him he would soon become the Pilot he and I needed. It was so hot that late May, Saturday, afternoon, 92 degrees! At that time my car was without AC, one more thing I needed to fix, we stopped many times on our way home to rest and drink water. Pilot was a funny fellow, always standing during the car ride and peering out the window as the landscape began to change from people on city sidewalks to rolling hills and farmlands.

Once home, he, like any dog would, ran around the house sniffing and exploring his new home. Along with having a new domain, he gained a new, soon to be, best friend in a grumpy, middle-aged-man of a cat Alfred. Although, with first introductions they didn’t appear that they would ever become friends but rather disgruntled roommates. After several weeks and many headaches they have finally become the friends they needed.

Now that time has passed, Pilot has learned his domain is shared and his outdoor kingdom is home to many wildlife that pass through. His level of excitement and size of bark tend to indicate a similar size of animal. From safe within the home, atop his very own chair, he is the watch dog of the garden, wood, and yard, letting all who pass by, even my passing by neighbors, know who is truly the keeper of the house. But, for the most part he enjoys his naps, sleeping in his crate, his couch, his chair, the grass, or snuggled up beneath my feet.

Apart from learning how to live with a dog as energized as Pilot, I have come to enjoy the peace and calm his presence brings. His personality and constant companionship has come to be a reminder that we cannot do life alone, that we as creatures are hardwired to be with those we love.

With love, Sarah