Reality of No Dog sets in - the unlicked bowl

we asked ourselves if the new dishwasher will really be able to handle this

new reality, our new reality, the one where there is no dog running to lick the

bowls as soon as they hear the clink of the spoon against the bowl.

we wonder if we can handle this new reality where there is no warm 

fuzzy body cuddling up next to us as we watch the second episode in

yet another series that could educate us, instead of entertain, there is no 

warm breath on our pant leg, no more dog hair on my sweater, no sweet

greeting when I open the door after being away.  

the dishwasher is unprepared for this, as are we, our tears barely

drying before they fall again to the ground.