Cody, “slipped into my pocket with my car keys,” goes to song.  We were walking through the San Francisco Dog Show, minding our own business when out pops Cody from a strategically placed kennel.  He knelt close to us on one back leg, spread out another, and looked up with those lazy eyes. We were smitten.

From the day he arrived, our home was changed. More heart, more time to sit and cuddle, more time to think about something other than the day’s activities.  To walk with him and watch him work a crowd is remarkable.  He can turn some of the sourest faces bright.  Even from behind a mask, you can tell people connect with him.  He is an intoxicating ice breaker, evocative conversation starter and powerful mini therapist.  We’ve witnessed strangers cry, macho bartenders melt and one lovely woman gush a story in Spanish – we couldn’t understand everything she said and yet, we could.

In this isolated, divisive, fear-stricken time, he’s a powerful tonic.

Sure, sometimes he just wants food.  But the overarching, astonishing, enchanting truth is that his effect on others and us is transformative.  And that’s Big Magic.

About the piece: 

About the piece:  This 24” x 18” piece is mixed-media collage with image transfers and acrylics.  The mandala-like half circle represents his magical energy.  The background flowers and choice of colors are meant to spark smiles.