Our family includes two standard poodles. They’re playful, affectionate, and smart. When they were young, they also loved to romp in the mud.

A photo of Max and Cosette standing at my French doors with topknots flattened by rain and mud up to their necks reminds me of this stage. They couldn’t understand why I didn’t swing open the door to welcome them inside when they were so pleased with themselves.

Of course, you know why I didn’t let them in. Muddy dogs—even dearly loved ones—contaminate all they touch.

I don’t know why young poodles are drawn to mud. Neither do I understand why I’m drawn to fear and worry. Attraction to bad news must be universal because that’s what news programs cover. It should be called the 6 o’clock bad news!Continue Reading