Of course, we cannot forget the gift that is given us in the humble dog. It is true that not all dogs are great companions. I had a dog at one point, a hound of undetermined origin named “Yukon” that I rescued from a trip to the pound, that vexed me endlessly. Despite his impressive ability to repeatedly do the worst thing possible, I grieved his passing at the paws of a wild creature. See images for credits.

Despite their antics and shenanigans, It is hard to find a dog that does not try from the heart to be a good companion. Of the seven I have owned (or that owned me), only Yukon was not a constant encouragement and giver of daily gifts. Indeed, as Robyn Davidson stated above, the greatest of these was dogs.

Of course, love is the greatest gift of all. Happy Monday!