His name is Magglio, but he is most commonly referred to as "the Popple" or any variety of the following nicknames: Poppsy, Pop Pop, the P.O.P., young pooch, the favorite, or the blessed pooch. He is sometimes referred to as a shaman or mystic because he possesses special, other-worldly powers. I sing songs or "Popple carols" in his honor and, because dogs are so tonal, I also have various songs that indicate mealtime, treats, walks, "business strolls," road trips, and the sighting of deer or squirrels.
The Popple and I do everything together. We go on nature walks, discuss philosophy or Buddhism (he's an excellent listener), eat together, read, etc. This has been a rather tumultuous, unhappy year for me, so he has always lent a shoulder for me to cry on as well (or perhaps it is the salty taste of tears that he really likes?). I often tease my boyfriend by saying that the Popple and I are soul mates who are on a life journey together. The only thing is, I'm not kidding.
Here he is in all of his glory:
He has a very contemplative nature. When he is not meditating (or sleeping), he can often be seen pondering the meaning of life (above) or suggesting answers to life's mysteries.
Much like his mother, he has a very trained eye for aesthetics. This coat is replete with an Edwardian collar, water-resistant fabric, and light-reflecting panels, so it is both functional and fashionable.
In order to maintain his statuesque physique, he is very conscious about what food he consumes. He is seen here overseeing the preparation of homemade cookies. Being the gourmand that he is, however, he shies away from most baked goods. A few of his favorite foods include fresh (not frozen!) shrimp lightly glazed in sugar, mature cheddar varieties from New Zealand and Ireland, water infused with the essence of cucumber or berry (only in the summer), and honey-roasted turkey breast.
One of his favorite hobbies is chewing rawhide sticks. He prefers to scatter half-chewed sticks around the apartment along with bits of kibble so that he is never far from a source of entertainment. We can't even begin to understand the complexities of his mind, so I never question his actions.
Sunbathing is another one of his daily pleasures, most often enjoyed with a member of his inner circle. Fox is currently his most trusted companion, so he is usually given the privilege of the Popple's company, as seen here. He just has an unrivaled zest for life.
In addition to being a soothsayer of sorts, he is also deeply compassionate and concerned about cultivating relationships with his coterie of stuffed animals. His circle of friends includes Fox (pictured above), Moose, Sheepe (his oldest advisor), Dragon (of Welsh origins), Pig, Hedgehog, Mallard, and the shunned Cow, who was unfortunately removed from his close circle for unknown reasons.
Weather-permitting, the Popple enjoys sitting on the balcony and communing with the natural elements. I am always astounded by his regal presence, as he demonstrates in this photo.
Being this magical can be exhausting, though. He requires much sleep, private meditation, and personal time in order to hone his inner being. Recently, Brian and I have begun discussing his many Buddha-like qualities. It is possible that someone so young (he just celebrated his fifth year) has already achieved enlightenment. He graciously shares his wisdom with other canines of his size and stature.
When I begin writing his biography, the title will likely take inspiration from St. Teresa of Avila's The Way of Perfection, for he is as close to perfection as can be achieved. Compassionate, selfless, generous, erudite, inspirational. The Popple embodies all of these qualities and so much more. There is no doubt that he is truly Best in Show.
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