Cole's capers dog days of summer

Cole enjoys the porch. His porch perch.
He watches critters eat from the birdseed holder, and drink from the fountain. He thinks great poodle thoughts and wishes he could share his wisdom with pups coming up. As the heat takes over, he becomes drowsy and decides to pause in his great thoughts and take a little nap. 

 Is there anything as touching as seeing a pet sleep? So vulnerable and peaceful, trusting you'll take their "watch" and have their back. 

Cole has taken to resting like this with his head hanging off a bed. Or propped up on a pillow but never level. He sleeps deeply. His ability to sleep has increased as his hearing has decreased. He must no longer be aware of little startling noises so he rests more completely now.

 I often have to put my hand on him, rocking him gently to wake him. He wakes a bit confused, staring at me to place me. I see the moment when he remembers where he is and with whom. He is awake then, but relaxed. 

Oh yes, the momma. I love her. Wonder if she has a treat for me. 

I used to plan for the moments puppy Cole would nap, tiptoe-ing around so as not to wake the tempest he was. Now I place a hand on his side to feel breaths, slow in... and out... and I sometimes hold his foot while he sleeps.

 I am aware he loves the Daddy most. His play mate and protector. 
The patient one who lets him sniff for hours in one spot. 

But I love him, chose him, wanted him in particular among all the available pups at the time. 

I think, if he could talk he'd say, "love you, Momma. Relax"