This morning, after Irene, the slight chill in the air reminded me that fall is coming. As my puppy and I took our morning walk through the local woods, I began thinking about my yellow lab, Hobbes, who died almost a year ago.

We knew that at 15, we wouldn’t have him much longer, and because I was laid off from my job in July last year, I was able to savor those last weeks with him.

Yes, he was stiff, and there were a few “accidents” in the house, but he still seemed to enjoy life. He showed me that while getting old could be uncomfortable and inconvenient, it was still worth living.

If he'd been able to talk,  he might have shared these lessons.

No matter how old you are, go for the joy. With gusto.



Your friends are everything.


If you wait patiently, they will come.

Even when your heart is broken because an old friend is gone, keep it open. A new friend will teach you things that the old friend couldn't.