I bring sad news today.
The only and official dog mascot for this blog, Sophie, has passed away. Full name, Sophie Belle Mooney, was rescued from a California animal shelter in the early days of this century by her devoted owner, aka The Editor, and was eventually brought to east Tennessee in 2005, when I was first introduced to her.
A few samples of the adventures she and I shared are part of this blog's history, and the image of her below has been seen and shared around the globe. The picture captures some of her inquisitive and sweet nature, and is emblematic of the deeply personal connection she could make.
I am but one of many uncles and other extended family members for Sophie and count myself enriched for such a connection. There are many tales I might tell, but decided to mention just one today.
On many occasions I took naps with Sophie and they were quite fantastic. Like many of us, I have often relaxed and reclined with dogs and cats but with Sophie there was this quality that what we were doing was linked to an ancient connection between humans and dogs, a wordless bond, a relationship which brought a greater quality of life to us both.
And you, dear reader, either know what I am talking about or you do not, and if not you need to seek out the experience and marvel at what it means.
I join with many, many others who both mourn her loss and celebrate her life. I know there is an inconsolable grief for The Editor now, and some joy for the time which was shared. Enormous thanks to The Editor for introducing us.
Peace dear Sophie. And thank you, too.
I forgot to mention earlier today that I was most fortunate last week and was able to spend a lot of time with one of my favorite people ... I mean, favorite dog. Sophie and I had a fine time, thank you. She is this blog's official dog, you know.
The Editor was kind enough to send me another picture of Sophie, the most popular dog on the internets, this time a candid shot of Sophie celebrating Christmas. Looks to be having a fine time.
I hope you have the time and the good fortune to have a most Merry Christmas. I'm sure that Sophie wishes the same for you ... well, maybe she simply hopes for a daily abundance of tasty foods and a comfortable spot to sleep.
So the best Christmas wishes to one and all, and a special bonus to go with the photo - a short but very soulful collection of Christmas tunes. There is a certain quality to many holiday songs which the selection below tries to preserve and I hope you enjoy it.
SeeqPod Music beta - Playable Search
Sophie, the official canine representative of yer Cup of Joe Powell returns in a recent photo, courtesy of The Editor. A black and white photo of a black and white dog on a black and white floor is a good thing.
So many emails and comments have come in regarding Sophie and her recovery after being on the run from nefarious evil-doers late last week that an update is in order.
She has been whisked away from the rolling hills of Talbott to an Undisclosed Secret Location. I say if it's good enough for Cheney, it's more than good for Sophie, too.
Part One of the Relocation story and Part Two of the Relocation Story.
