Ode to SugarSnap- Our Silent Love.

During a tumultuous patch in my last relationship, I was faced with an ultimatum. I could keep you, or move out. In a flash of clarity, I knew the relationship was over. Nobody who knows and loves me would try to take you from me. Needless to say, we were taking your first ferry ride to the mainland forthwith.

You were born bilaterally deaf. It had to do with your lack of pigmentation. That made you unsaleable product to the prestigious breeders from whence you came. It was you who first caught my attention. Your atypical behavior set you apart from your frolicsome littermates. While they bouncily played with each other in groups, you walked the fenceline of the yard alone, collecting olfactory clues, 3 fluffy white pounds of lone wolf.

I had visited your breeder ready to spend $1,500 for my perfect puppy. Upon declaring that it was you I wanted, the breeder shook her head. "That one isn't for sale." Her words impregnated with reticence. "Already spoken for?" I queried. Sighing, she replied "She's deaf. As registered AKC breeders, we cannot accept monetary compensation for a defective puppy." What nerve, to label you defective!

I insisted, I must have you. You were given to me, for free. That day, I ended a bad relationship, saved $1500, and gained a uniquely communicative companionion. To you, your name was two bangs on the floor. Vibration was understandable. We learned together. Our conversations were textural, inaudible. Truly, a love beyond words.