You know how people say that long-time married couples start to look alike as the years go by?
I think that’s happening with my dog and me.
It’s not just appearances—we share mannerisms, habits, even likes and dislikes. Weird, right?
I rescued Aspen, my half Siberian Husky, half Golden Retriever mix, 12 years ago when he was about a year old. Now at 13, he still looks great! People stop me on walks, surprised when they hear his age, impressed by his good looks, attitude, pep, and strength.
At 61, I feel much the same—peppy, strong, and (mostly) positive. I don’t think I look my age either, though my assiduous avoidance of mirrors may play a role in that.
Like me, Aspen is a creature of habit. He anticipates mealtimes, watches closely for scraps to drop while I’m cooking, knows when his walks are coming, and heads upstairs with me at bedtime. I also find comfort in routine, enjoying the rhythm of my days.
Even though Aspen is getting a little creaky in his joints, he still greets every activity with eagerness. I get it. Despite my painful wrist arthritis, I make it to the gym 4–5 times a week because I know the benefits outweigh the discomfort.
Aspen is always thrilled for car rides, anticipating adventures to new places. Once we get there, though, he’s just as happy to head back home. I’m the same way—half the fun of travel for me is in the planning and anticipation, sometimes more than the trip itself.
So have we become like each other? Or were we always this way, which is why we make such good companions? Either way, Aspen’s my best buddy—and life is infinitely better with him by my side.
