Not Stonewalling Jackson

The lady next door walks by a few times a day with her dog, Jackson. She's nice enough, but I knew Jackson's name before I knew hers, and the children get very excited about the dog.

But about a week ago, when Ian was waiting for the school bus and the two of them walked by, after Ian petted Jackson, something unexpected happened. Ian nearly fell on Jackson's owner, presumably because she wasn't prepared for the outburst which followed: after petting Jackson, Ian proceeded to give Jackson's "mom" a big hug and a kiss.

She was surprised, but very moved, by this affection which Ian extended even beyond his four-legged friend.

(October 18, 2011)