Many years have passed since that first Christmas. Our home with the Rosses has been so very good. Since that night, Sister and I have never been cold, hungry or stepped one paw outside.

The two girl children, Laura and Rose, were loving. Sometimes they would dress us up and put us in chairs to partake tea and cakes with them. There were many pets to come in this house, but we shared all the joys and comforts together.

Sister and I are more inclined to sleep now than play. We spend our days in the warm sunshine which flows through the windows. It warms our stiff joints and makes us drowsy. The children are grown and one has left to start her own home, but no one could bear the thought of separating Sister and I, so we have stayed with Mother and Father Ross and Rose.

Over the years, Joseph and Mary and their children have visited often. Pilot was always present on these occasions. He was our first good friend. Pilot has crossed the Rainbow Bridge now, but one of the last things he said to me was, "Aren't you glad you weren't as dumb as a sheep?" We miss him but know he is now herding smarter sheep in Heaven.

It is a new century too. People are kinder to people and all the beasts. No longer can tiny human children be sent into the mines and mills to work. Animals are protected from abuses too, especially the carriage and cab horses.

My window is calling me now. The sun's rays are low in the sky at Christmas. Tonight Sister and I will make our Christmas wish, that peace, love and happiness fill the world.