MEET MAULI THE MUSE

Our British Labrador Retriever, Mauli, has been with me since the beginning of my writing journey in 2001. From early puppyhood, her favorite place to sleep was behind my desk chair. Mauli has a long tail. My chair has wheels. I am sometimes forgetful. Therefore, it’s impossible to calculate the number of times I’ve rolled over her tail. Being of a forgiving nature, Mauli would simply give me a reproachful look and resume her post.

I swear she knows when I haven’t finished my word count for the day. In spite of the danger, tail-wise, she scoots closer and closer, literally pinning me to the desk until I finish. Mauli will be ten this year. She’s made sure I’ve completed six books. I can’t imagine writing without her pressed against the back of my chair.

 I’d like to believe Mauli is like Enzo, the sweet dog in The Art of Racing in the Rain. Enzo lived his life believing that, after death, he would evolve into a higher being, one with opposable thumbs and the ability to talk. Oh, wait! Do I really want a dog who not only makes me stay in my chair, but has the ability to nag? Hmmm. I’ll think it over and let you know.