It’s nice to take Brittany into the yard at night to pee before bed. Charlie can go in and out by himself, of course. But, after dark, I’m aware of the risk of coyotes for Brittany. A lovely sprinkling of stars, a half moon. And fresh air. Warmth. No jacket on. Just waiting for Brittany I feel what goes without saying: how wonderful air is. Conscious of breath and fresh air and the pine trees and the stillness and quiet of night. Wave and I played in the wetlands, throwing sticks for Charlie before dinner in the late afternoon. The puffed clouds were backlit by a bright sun. The mallards were quacking. He didn’t want to come in. Finally, his feet were puddled with water in his boots and he was cold. Frank home from tennis and the three of us have a quiet dinner and a movie. A relaxing day. Frank did chores, like taking the Christmas tree on the porch down, which was very satisfying. First day of spring very soon.