Līgo Haibun Challenge – Invisible Footprints

Photo by Brenda Harsham 

It was a choice between two photos on Līgo Haibun Challenge this week, and the footprints led me in this direction…

I adored her from the very first moment we met. A pair of impish chestnut eyes within a wool bundle in the colour of caffé latte, proudly leading her “gang” around the yard. It looked almost like a parade, though quite odd and clumsy one, with all six participants jumping over each other, tumbling and even going for a playful bite. There were some suggestions about choosing another one that might be easier to handle but I couldn’ t change my mind. So what that she had quite a character? She was a riot – I wouldn’ t have expected anything less.

I never regretted the choice I made that day and I hope Sāra didn’ t either. We loved her, unconditionally, as she grew up and from a playful puppy turned into a real dog. A big and strong one as briards are supposed to be but with a touch of grace like real ladies do. Always bursting of energy, occasionally a bit stubborn like me but still respected and respectful. Knowing how to make a stranger to keep a distance with one strict bark in her solid baritone. And that special move of quietly putting her head on my knee, looking closely through her strands and understanding without words. Mutual love and friendship – so honest and strong till it was her time…

She left footprints in my life simply by being herself. They won’ t disappear under the freshly fallen snow, nor turn into puddles under the first spring sunbeams. Invisible ones deep inside. They are there to stay. Have been for a couple of years and always will.

four paws and tail
footprints down memory lane
unerasable

Līgo Haibun Challenge