Grandma Edie Poured a Cold Lemonade and Sat Down. Moose Squeezed In Right Away.
Ice clinks in a tall glass of lemonade, a lemon slice perched on the rim. Grandma Edie relaxes in a folding chair on the covered porch, green quilted vest over a gray shirt, her glasses low as she gazes down fondly at Moose. The Saint Bernard has wedged himself right against her knees, tongue lolling, eyes half closed in total contentment. Late-day sun filters through the trees beyond the porch railing, lighting up a few potted plants and a doormat, while the house siding glows a soft cream in the shade.
Porches are perfect for warm afternoons, and keeping a dog comfortable in the heat is worth some thought. Saint Bernards have thick double coats and were bred for cold mountains, so they can struggle on hot days. Shade, a cool floor to lie on, and plenty of fresh water are essentials. Heavy panting, drooling more than usual, or sluggishness can be signs a dog is getting too warm, and moving indoors to air conditioning is a smart step. Citrus is also best kept away from dogs, since lemons can upset their stomachs, so that glass of lemonade is strictly Grandma Edie's.
The afternoon stretches on slowly, with no particular plan. A cold drink, a shady porch, and a big friend leaning in for attention are reason enough to stay put. Moose certainly is not going anywhere, and Grandma Edie would not have it any other way.
