Musti, my constant companion for the last 11-1/2 years, died at the beginning of September.  I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that the single, slightly impulsive act of adopting him in February 2005 profoundly changed my life.  He was both motivator and tour guide to explore places I would never have seen, and he introduced me to more people than I can count.  Most fundamentally, though, he showed me that deep, powerful relationships can flourish between species.  He was a joyous being until dementia took away his understanding of the world around him, and I hope some of that joy lives on in those who knew him.

Musti’s first day with me, 8 February 2005.

In the Blue Hills Reservation, a favorite place for both of us

Musti was always practicing his Jedi mind tricks with my co-workers at lunch

Musti was deeply miffed when I brought Luc into the household, but he got over it

An evening of illicit, leash-free fun on Bussey Hill in the Arnold Arboretum

Musti was more open to Cass’s arrival as a 7-1/2 week old pup

Evidence of peaceful coexistence…

About 14-1/2 years old

Almost 15 years old, but still bouncy on good days

He always had a thing for the big guys

Puppy as goad…

Almost 16

5 September 2016