Dogs! Dogs! Dogs Everywhere!

There are as many dogs as people on the neighborhood streets here in Ubud. I have been told they are harmless but you know...

I didn't grow up with pet dogs.

I am terrified of them.

Only those of you who grew up in a place where dogs are raised to guard compounds will understand this.

Growing up, I was bitten a couple of times by our own dog!



Yesterday, I took my kids for a walk.



On our walk, we discovered this little alley we couldn't help but explore.



Right at the end of the alley where it gives way to a dirt path, we happened upon a sleeping dog.

I promptly grabbed my kids and tried to slip away unnoticed.

But alas, the dog woke up and started barking - sending my heart to my throat.

I picked up Dinbit and I told Buchela to walk slowly.

Do not look back, I kept on telling him.

Do not run.

"Just walk," I said --- as another dog joined the one barking.

The trailed us all the way until we slowly exited to the main road.

Just when I thought we were safe, we were again accosted by another barking dog on our street.



And my son said to me "Mama, I will be on this side." He moved to the side where the dog was. "You and Dinbit be on the other side," he told me firmly.

My son.

My Child.

My little wonder man.

He is old enough to think he can protect me.

When does he become old enough to ever know just how much I love him and want to protect him too?