cozy

He seems to know it is Christmas--maybe it is the extra food he steals from the counter-top, the tree that changes the living room, the lights, music, boisterous children, or just the quiet evenings by the fireplace.  He lays under the tree and by the fireplace just watching everything unfold.  He is an all-knowing and soothing presence around the holidays.  His big white paws spread out from where he lays and remind us of reindeer hoofs and legs.  His thick coat begs to be pet and hugged.  His deep brown eyes gaze at us while we scurry here and there.

He is calm and bright.  His coziness forces me to stop and sit for a minute with him on the floor.  Together, we silently communicate. 

This is one of my favorite parts of Christmas--my big cozy dog by the tree.