the groomer said he could hardly stand up for his haircut, but he seems so vigorous when we're outside. the lake was utter calm this morning. i was afraid about my skin, and shied from the waves for him. but then i thought we both need this. i started carefully bring him across the crush, but he can't swim as far in the roiling water. when it calms like this morning we swim way out, and i feel free, the further we swim the freer i feel, and feeling him beside me is a joy that can't be described, only felt. when i lift him out onto the platform he turns round and i can see the excitement in his eyes. he's eager to get his rubdown and roll and dance along the highway between the walking and biking paths. and we see only well-wishers, no haters today. some moments we are in a realm without hate, even here, in the united states.