Dogs.

There is so much to be said about the various species we get to have as companions. In particular, dogs provide immense elation for millions. We adopted Aspen seven years ago and have had Isla for seven months. With any relationship, there are trials, times of learning, and frustration (particularly when we lost Isla in a blizzard at night for 1.5 hours). I have to remind myself that it wasn't until Aspen was about five that she settled down and became less on guard. Countless walks and adventures have been accompanied by Aspen and anticipate the same for Isla. I'm perpetually grateful for the company and joy injected into my life because of these two dogs.