After 5 1/2 years, my rescued Chow Chow Kelso decided that he was tired of going to the park two times a day. Living one block from one of the most beautiful parks in the city made it more than convenient to walk the dogs there. But Kelso had had enough, especially since our old greyhounds weren’t up for walking too much anymore. He needed more adventure in his life. And winter is his favorite season.
I generally always let Kelso lead on our walks together. I figure that he has little control over his life, so why not let him control this. Besides, anyone that knows Chows knows that they are stubborn, strong, and intelligent. A couple of months ago, he started trying to leave the park on our walks. One day, I just gave in.
Thus began our exploration of our beautiful and diverse neighborhood. Kelso had been a stray dog roaming these same streets before being captured and coming to live with us. We walk up and down the streets and alleys. Our route is never the same. We walk streets I didn’t even know existed. There’s nothing like walking to see the world around you.
I am struck by the collection of majestic homes well over 100 years old and more modest dwellings. The house to the left is one of the more grand homes in the neighborhood. This is a neighborhood where the wealthy and working-class lived in close proximity. I guess they still do. It’s evident as we walk: sometimes on the same street and sometimes mere streets apart.
I’m grateful to Kelso for taking me outside of our rut. For taking me on his journey of discovery. I know I will miss this neighborhood when I leave. Now I’ll know what exactly I’ll be missing.
WanderLyd 