You never mean for this kind of thing to happen but it does. A bunch of us were visiting Kai-Liis's wonderful farm. Every animal was affectionate -- sweet-faced alpacas came to the fence for handfuls of green grass; the two horses offered their soft noses. There was only one hold-out in the crowd. You guessed it.
I've always been attracted to challenges. Casper seemed lonely, if rather grumpy, and I pursued him like a teenager after a rock star. He faced away, I massaged his rump; he took off across the field; I followed; he ignored me; I muttered endearments. Four hours later,my hands were black but Casper had received a thorough and affectionate spinal massage. We were a couple.
So, Sweet Boy, this painting is for you. Kai has promised to hang a copy of it in the barn; I also think she should read this post to you, skipping the word "pot-bellied," of course. I will be sending you carrots and apples for Christmas. Hee Haw!!
P.S. Jon knows. He took it quite well, actually.