The light, not quite as blank or as white as I would expect from a November morning, reaches in, slants in, and rolls over her head, her nose. She glows, she shines, still she sleeps.

I’ve been waiting for this. It’s perfect. Usually she’s a light sleeper. Usually she hears me shuffle. Usually she hears the beep of my camera. And starts out of her sleep. It’s been impossible to photograph her sleeping. It’s like trying to make sure the light turns off when you close the fridge or, in a mirror, trying to see what you look like with your eyes closed.

But I’m smarter this time. I’m prepared. The camera is right here beside me. And hours ago I turned the beeping off. She stirs a little when the shutter snaps. I might only be able to fire off one or two more without waking her.

What do dogs dream of? Cookies? Squirrels? Another Barney?

She opened her eyes and moved after the third picture. But that’s Ok. I got this on the first one.

SS