Letters from Phoebe: A Series

(Ed. Note: The following is the first in a series of monthly installments called Letters From My St. Bernard Service Dog, Phoebe, During Her Year Off Traveling Abroad. It is, as you might guess, a collection of written correspondence between Phoebe and me as she travels the world and finds herself. Speaking of travel, doesn't your dog deserve to live each day in the comfort and luxury of the Dog Ritz Carlton? Check out www.wooddogcrate.com for all your stylish dog crate/gate/toy box/crate training needs!)

October 5, 2012

Dear Lauren,

Well, I’ve made it. Paris is everything I thought it would be. I write you from a balcony overlooking the river Seine, or, I should say, “La Seine.” I think you were right; I think taking this time for myself is important. The rat race, the wearisome monotony of everyday life was becoming too much for my temerarious spirit. I know that my profession is a noble one and I have dedicated my life to a worthy cause. It’s just that, well, my newfound freedom has opened my eyes to the possibilities that lie before me. There is more to life than a career, after all! I plan to savor every moment of my travels and the decadent adventure that is sure to follow. Thank you for sensitively recognizing my need for a sabbatical. Though my keen sense of smell alerts you to detrimental chemical changes in your blood and brain, and your reliance on my strong, capable dog body makes it possible for you to balance, move about, and function as a productive member of society, I- What was I saying? I was talking about how much I help you in your life but there was something more. I was going to flatter you with a compliment. Oh! Even though I save your life, often, and I am the one with the otherworldly, psychic talents that regularly elicit “oohs!” and “aahs!” from strangers on the street, this time, champ, you were the one with the spot-on intuition.  

I toured the expansive grounds today at Luxembourg Gardens. I stopped to admire a particularly fragrant cluster of pansies when I noticed a young woman and her canine companion. Though the woman appeared able-bodied and strong, I was reminded of you. I made my way to the theatre des marionnettes and was amused by the pint-sized humans and their love of canine toys attached to human man hands. I was glad to have my camera ready when a miniature Napoleon danced his way onto the stage and seemed to wave in my general direction!

I plan to write again, soon, and regale you with tales of Champs-Elysées, the Francois Truffaut Cinema Library, and Disneyland Paris! Can you imagine? Until then, please remember to take your medication, and use your wheelchair if you are feeling fatigued. Oh, goodness, listen to me going on and on. I must remind myself that I am on vacation! 

Louvre, (LOL,)